Few bands have come up with as generous and fresh an idea as the latest project from The Joy Formidable. In a rare break from international commitments, and worldwide promotion, they’ve been based back in their studio in north Wales working on a new idea, which rolls out this summer. It’s an organic idea that has arisen between their work on a new album.
Ritzy Bryan of The Joy Formidable. Photo: Getty Images
The special project sees the band return to their roots in more ways than one. Called ‘Arthurol’, the Welsh for ‘Formidable’, they’ve been recording in Welsh (Rhydian’s first language and Ritzy’s second) and also preparing to put something back into the Welsh music scene by giving Welsh bands the chance to be on the flip-sides to these one-off releases.
I’m sure the selected bands are aware what a fantastic opportunity this provides to reach a new audience through the The Joy Formidable’s widely established fan base in one swift move.
It’s also refreshing to hear their music in Welsh. Their music has always had depth and poetry, alongside the assault of the guitars and pummelling drums. Nothing is lost in translation – it sounds just as good in Welsh. I’m absolutely amazed by the quality of the lyrics of their first release, written by Ritzy, in her second language. Most importantly it sounds like them!
For the Mold based band, geography holds no bounds to the project. The first release sees the band team up with Cardiff based Colorama with a track called Forget Tomorrow, followed by Swansea band White Noise Sound, with future releases in place for We Are Animal from the north west of Wales, Bloom, and finally Heavy Petting Zoo. Their many tours and gigs, especially in Wales, have always had this element of patronage of younger, newer acts, independently selected by them. Their genuine passion for music makes them truly stand out in a cynical self-obsessed music industry.
Ritzy admitted they’ll have to concentrate on finishing the album at some point, but this idea could certainly gather momentum and holds no boundaries right now. They hinted that they might include bands they love from around the world on future releases. Cue the sound of thousands of Jiffy bags getting licked and stamped ready for despatch - they will certainly get swamped by demos!
I caught up with Ritzy and Rhydian on BBC Radio Wales a few weeks back to discuss the project in more detail:
The Joy Formidable told Bethan how they're giving their B-sides over to other Welsh bands
Monday 21 July is the first release, go to The Joy Formidable's website to find out more about the vinyl-only Singles Club.
Look out for the double A-side vinyl featuring new track ‘Yn Rhydiau’r Afon’.
They play Gwyl Gardd Goll, Anglesey on Saturday 26 July and The Globe in Cardiff for Sŵn on Sunday 27 July 2014.
Listen to Bethan Elfyn on BBC Radio Wales at 7pm on Saturdays.