Adwaith were one of 2017’s break-out acts, quickly charging to the forefront of both the Welsh-language and DIY scenes. Whatever 2018 has in store for this Carmarthen-trio is going to be well worth keeping an eye on, and it’s starting with the release of a new double-A single, Fel I Fod/Newid.
Fel I Fod was written at a time of great change in vocalist Hollie Singer’s life, as she explains, “everything was new and scary to me. This song is about being afraid. Afraid of being stuck. Afraid of being comfortable somewhere I don’t think I belong. It’s about realising you’ll be okay even if you don’t feel okay all the time.” Musically, Fel I Fod is astonishing, all muted gorgeous keyboard washes, bright melancholic guitars, and mind-blowingly tight vocal harmonies.
If Fel I Fod, is a tender, inward glancing moment, Newid is an anthem for our modern world, and the next generation, “the generation who were deceived and ignored by the cold, selfish world of Brexit and Trump”. Yet it’s not entirely downbeat, in the clattering post-punk chords, and pulsating bass there’s a feeling of hope, as they sing, ‘Bu nhw byth yn torri ni’ – they never break us! Making Welsh-language music might often be seen as niche, but making it this beautiful, this accessible, this powerful: well that’s very interesting indeed.
Gwenllian Anthony,
Heledd Owen,
The Fat Angel Sings 