The word Adwaith roughly translates to reaction from Welsh into English. However, it also means unique, which is a fitting description for the Rock band from Wales that assumed the name.
Formed nearly a decade ago, the lady trio of Vocalist/Guitarist Hollie Singer, Vocalist/Bassist Gwenllian Anthony, and Drummer Heledd Owen have stood fast with a very different approach to music. As mentioned, from Wales, it is important to have a little bit of world history to get their point of view. Historically, Wales has been considered part of the United Kingdom for most of their existence after consistent conquest from England. A factor that in many ways clouds their own national identity, it is vital to express that the Welsh have a very distinct culture. In fact, the Welsh language is one of the oldest in the European region, dating back an estimated 1,300 to 1,600 years.
Fascinating to someone who appreciates culture, a country’s identity, and history, Adwaith is an inherited place of pride in which they opt to write and sing their songs predominately in their home’s native language. A factor that unquestionably limits an international reach to those who prefer a universal English sung song, for those willing to open their minds to something outside their box, Adwaith proves to have plenty of intrigue to offer.
First debuting to a wider audience back in 2017 on the Welsh Language Music Day, they soon began to create a buzz around the local scene, which snowballed into the release of their debut album, Melyn, arriving in late 2018. Continuing to keep their momentum going, they played a steady mix of live shows and, in 2022, put out their second album, Bato Mato, on their way to winning their second Welsh Music Prize.
Tremendous accomplishments: The big question to those unfamiliar with the band is, what exactly does Adwaith sound like? In answer to that, their music is a colorful hybrid of Alternative Rock, Art Rock, Punk Rock, Folk Rock, and even Synthpop. Altogether, you could easily see that the band is influenced by some of the best European New Wave and Post-Punk that emerged during the late ‘70s and dominated the ‘80s, but of course, also their own Welsh scene. After all, Wales is also recognized as the ‘Land of the Song.’
Understanding all of this, it should be extremely compelling to those beyond the dedicated Welsh music scene supporters to know that Adwaith is set to release a new album called Solas. Marking their third overall studio album, it arrives on February 7, 2025, through Libertino Records with an exorbent collection of songs in tow.
Roughly translating to joy or light in English, Solas is a fitting title because it is an ambitious, positive double album consisting of a massive twenty-three tracks. A daunting undertaking for any artist, it seems Adwaith had a tremendous amount of creative juices flowing because these songs are engaging and rather eclectic in their approach.
Extremely melodic all the way through, the danceability is also universal, with irresistible bass lines and delicate, quirky textures that will have you longing for more. Including pre-released singles like 2023’s catchy Pop track “Addo,” there is also 2024’s “MWY” and “Miliwin,” two bouncy Indie Rock numbers worth checking out. Joining these, Solas has a truly expansive pallet of moods and sounds.
For example, you have the more mellow guitar-driven “Tristwch,” the trippy “Planed,” and the absolutely chill vibe of “Gofyn.” However, the title track is simply outstanding with dream-like guitar tones, “Coeden Anniben” has a more aggressive beat, while “Y Diwedd” lulls you inside with a rich ambiance and haunting vocals.
Overall, Solas is an album that is obviously long but never grows old. The songs are experimental yet not so obscure that the structure is lost, and the energy is authentic.
That said, it would be redundant and a disservice to break down each track… especially considering their extensive length. That is why it is highly recommended that fans of Alternative Rock who want to broaden their horizons check out Adwaith, and particularly Solas. Cryptic Rock gives it 4.5 out of 5 stars.
){kind=link}
No comment