Formed in Newport while both members were at university, Trwbador could be described as the missing link between folk and techno. The duo - Owain Gwilym and Angharad Van Rijswijk - moved to Carmarthenshire after uni and slowly built themselves a reputation which saw them gain recognition not just in their native Wales, but right across the UK.
Their minimal, sparse sounds soundtracked ads for Visit Wales and Lindeman's wine, and even inspired the Manic Street Preachers song Builder Of Routines from 'Rewind The Film'. Trwbador's self-titled debut album was nominated for the Welsh Music Prize and they performed at the London 2012 Olympics. Collaborations with Cornershop, Richard James and rapper ESSA followed, and second album 'Several Wolves' was released last year to glowing reviews.
Then things went quiet. Sadly, Trwbador split in September 2015; a real shame as they were gaining a reputation as a serious name for the future. Owain now lives in Berlin and performs under the name Somers, while Angharad remains in West Wales performing as ACCÜ. She also works with Richard James as Project Locus.
I've chosen one of their poppy electronic tracks today. Start Your Car is taken from that second (and final) album and probably sounds a bit like Saint Etienne or Broadcast, or both. Or neither. You decide.
Not sure who it sounds like Robster but it is rather good
ReplyDeleteSaw them on a cold, wet day at St Fagans a couple of years ago. I enjoyed them, and they did a good version of Army Dreamers in recognition of Kate Bush's upcoming gigs. I'd like to see/hear them get more exposure.
ReplyDelete