Well, it’s December 1st and Christmas is on its way. For me though, this date marks something rather special on my calendar. Today celebrates 1 year since I started ‘Becky and the Bands’, and what a year it has been!
What was just an idea in my head and a burst of enthusiasm, has grown to become something I could never have imagined. Beginning writing with nothing other than an incredible love of music, putting my thoughts out there was very scary! Yet I received such an overwhelming amount of love and support from you all, and every day since, I remain in complete awe at how much positivity and warmth you continue to show me. I cannot put into words how sincerely grateful I am. ‘Becky and the Bands’ has provided not only amazing opportunities, but also wonderful friendships, experiences and a complete adoration for the music industry.
We are all aware that 2020 has brought unprecedented challenges on the world, but there is no denying that it has hit music so earth-shatteringly hard. However, despite all of the chaos brought upon us. We continue to support, nurture, and provide for one another. Showing bold bravery in the face of uncertainty, and an unbreakable bond — That has brought us all even closer together, despite being so far apart.
Music lives within each and every one of us. It is our passion, and our comfort. It keeps us busy, and calms us down. It is our livelihood, and our lifeline. Music may not be playing as loud as we would love it to be heard right now, but if you listen close enough, then you’ll realise that WE are music. We play the instruments, plug in the speakers. Our voices, our words and our passion are what keep us going right now
Writing has been a tremendous help to me over the past year. Discovering and celebrating brilliant new music, getting to know so many lovely musicians, working with the most incredible companies, publications and individuals. Music has opened my heart to an entirely new outlook on life. However what it has shown me the most, is how hardworking, dedicated and inspiring music, and everyone who is a part of it, really is.
A huge THANK YOU to you all!
Your support this year has meant the world to me, and I’m so grateful for you!
Happy 1st Birthday
Becky and the Bands
I wanted to celebrate the amazing musicians I have written about this year!
Despite the unprecedented challenges that 2020 has brought upon music, I have been incredibly inspired by the continued efforts of musicians and the entire industry. Those who have dedicated so much of themselves to creating. Doing all that they can to bring joy, in the darkest of times. To celebrate their unwavering determination, I am…Continue reading »
2020 has seen Phoebe Green literally “Reinvent” herself. From a striking new single in July, to her current EP release. The Manchester based singer-songwriter has awoken a new persona, and she is certainly not one to be messed with. Possessing flame orange hair, and a dark witty humour, Green is flourishing. All while raining a glorious revenge…Continue reading »
Stepping out of the flamboyance and fun of previous release ‘Her Name Is Juniper’. For new double-A side ‘Fake Yourself’, Mr Bewlay takes on the far more somber role of an eccentric lone pianist, and the results are nothing short of sublime. Stirring vocals and soft piano keys entrance, with Bewlay knowing just how to…Continue reading »
Cradling tender emotion in the palm of their hands, is a skill that Cardiff indie-pop band Rosehip Teahouse have completely perfected. Boasting a back catalogue of gorgeously cathartic music. Latest EP ‘Fine’ merges old and new tracks, entwining memories, thoughts and feelings into just shy of a blissful 15 minutes. Swooning vocals from lead singer…Continue reading »
Horizons Cymru have announced the Welsh musicians and record labels, awarded funding from the Horizons Launchpad 2020. The 33 chosen Welsh artists/record labels awarded funding: Aleighcia Scot Eadyth Faith Foxxglove Hako Hemes High Grade Grooves HVNTER Ifan Pritchard K(E)NZ Kingkhan Leila Mckenzie Los Blancos Mace the Great Madi Magugu Malan Jones Mass Accord Mawpit Minas…Continue reading »
Frosty nights, cosy firesides, mulled wine, and mistletoe. December is here, Christmas is fast approaching, and serenading us this festive season is the gorgeous new single ‘Something About Christmas’ from Welsh singer-songwriter Rebecca Hurn. ‘Something About Christmas’ is mesmerising in its entire composure. From tender emotive pangs, to cosy Christmas references. With vocals as soft…Continue reading »
Bold and charismatic, an intoxicating charm blazes from the flamboyant powerhouse and emerging talent, that is Mr Bewlay. If personality alone is not enough to draw you in, and I dare anyone not to swoon under the spell of this captivating young musician. Latest single ‘Her Name is Juniper’ is the psychedelic spark that will…Continue reading »
With a passion for supporting emerging musicians. The exciting South Wales based initiative Forté Project, have launched their new application process. Giving six lucky individuals, the chance to join their prestigious talent development project. Previously only available to young musicians from South Wales. Following support from the PRS Foundation and the Arts Council of Wales. The Forté Project…Continue reading »
Punk rock is infamous for its love of rebellion. Rule-breaking, non-conformity and an unwavering bold stance in both style and substance. It is a genre that regularly depicts a state of turmoil, and hits back at society with a vengeance. As global politics and the state of the world at large, are currently tipping the…Continue reading »
Meet the Cheshire band, providing all the bite of a classic rock sound, with an intriguing modern twist. The Moondogz tether gritty instrument playing to moody vocal blues, and latest album ‘What’s Done Is Done’ will spark the curiosity of any classic rock fan, and grab the attention of all who dare to listen. No…Continue reading »
With a voice so soothing and tranquil, we find ourselves transported by the breathtaking beauty exuding from Welsh singer-songwriter Rebecca Hurn. Latest single ‘Love Like This’ pairs long, sweeping vocal pitches with an elegant cradle of instruments. Kept strikingly tender, through a subtle and soft musical composure. It is delicate yet daring, hereby its lyrical…Continue reading »
Infusing tender romantic blues with light guitar work. Pascxl (pronounced Pascal) creates an atmospheric soundscape of acoustic pop, that simmers against deep vocal hues. Latest single ‘The Moon Is Not Enough’ is a woefully tender love song, that pairs longing lyrics with a soothing sound. Perhaps a subtle nod to baroque pop. The track dreams of…Continue reading »
As Cardiff continues to produce an array of exciting and talented musicians. Meet Static Inc. A three-piece alternative rock group, who are crossing borders not only musically, but also where language is concerned. Combining both English and native Welsh within their debut track. Latest single ‘Tangelo’ is enriched by its varied blend of tongue, adding…Continue reading »
Music thuds through the walls, and the building shakes from the blaring pulse of the speakers. As doors fly open, and countless people weave in through the darkness. The packed-out gig is hot and humid. Filled with laughter and noise, beer and chanting. Livelier than any stadium, a wall-to-wall show at Fuel promises to please….Continue reading »
Living, rehearsing and recording amidst Tottenham’s bustling warehouse community. Musical-outlet World News have clear intentions of becoming an indie band on the rise. With latest single ‘Lend Me Your Brain’ pairing hooking basslines to rhythmic jangled guitars. Low-pitched vocal purrs provide the final ingredient, to create a sound that is blisteringly direct. There is no denying that this…Continue reading »
Sultry and slow burning. Delve into the intoxicating confessions of Vienna-based musician Fleming, through latest single Guilt and Pleasure. Led by a seductive blend of electronic percussion, mixed by Grammy nominated producer ill Factor. Slinky piano keys glide against drawn-out guitars, to brood among ambient atmospheric vocal pitches. There is an undeniable sleek, professionalism present. So authoritative and…Continue reading »
Through a pulsing guitar, we are hurtled into the fast-paced, loud and untamed music of South Wales’ Alternative Rock Band Feverjaw. Since bursting onto the scene last year, they are a band that have made an impact, and their music continues to be very well received by fans and the industry alike. Therefore, it should…Continue reading »
Combining cool, crisp vocals with a mellow soundscape. Welcome to the gloriously creative world of musician Matthew Barton. The release of EP Queen of England on a limited run of cassettes, affirms a spark of eccentricity, whilst a gorgeous vintage nostalgia flows through his music. With simple bass hooks and tender guitar strums. Music is…Continue reading »
Exploring emotion and self-expression in such a profoundly beautiful way. Discover the latest EP from Rosehip Teahouse Chillin in the Void. Led by the breathtaking vocals of Faye Rogers, Rosehip Teahouse hold our hand through their wonderous journey. Gifting music that swells with woozy love songs, earnest daydreams and intense emotion. Gorgeously soft vocals set…Continue reading »
Ahead of the release of their debut single Key Largo. I caught up with Cardiff-based indie pop band Angel Hotel, to find out how life has been for them since lockdown and what their plans are for the future! Hi Guys! So first of all, I have to ask how are you all coping during…Continue reading »