Gwilym Bowen Rhys - Aden

One of the most acclaimed voices from these isles, Welsh singer and multi-instrumentalist Gwilym Bowen Rhys is back with Aden. A new and highly anticipated release that combines old and new Welsh songs. with the support of a line up including harmonica virtuoso Will Pound and harp maestro Gwen Mairi.

A dark harmonium intro is the gateway to the splendid opener Coed Glyn Cynon, followed by the more introspective Fy Neryn Brith and the grand instrumental medley Wil Treffynnon, characterised by a stunning harmonica solo by Pound.

The album alternates traditional and original material as well as different atmospheres. In fact, jolly tracks like Gwn Dafydd Ifan and old songs like Si-so Gorniog stand alongside redolent and lyrical pieces like Wennol Fwyn.

But the overall result is harmonious and coherent thanks to the impressive versatility of Bowen Rhys’ voice. At times his timbre is deep and pleasantly raw, at others it is sweet, almost ethereal, but always warm and captivating.

Versatility is surely the word that best describes this album, but other elements that contribute to this result are the juxtaposed elements of baroque, country and bluegrass that unexpectedly, and yet always pleasantly, pop up in many tracks and the surprising variety of instruments Bowen Rhys plays on this release: not only guitar and fiddle, but also mandolin, trumpet, bouzouki, banjo, harmonica, pandereita and aquaphone.

There’s no need to understand the lyrics - Aden is a diverse musical experience that everyone can enjoy.