Live Review

Gwyl Gardd Goll – Parc Glynllifon

• 4th Sep 2008

As UK festivals fall away into the sea one after another its good to see that Wales remains a stronghold for musical gatherings with the majestic Gwyl Gardd Goll growing into a true event after last years foray into the unknown. The biggest problem I had with the festival was the utter fool placed on the gate who refused entry to my sweet self forcing me to traverse all manner of obstacles’ before getting inside. Last year the festival lucked into the only dry day of the month and true to form its boiling once again as the pale skinned Welsh slowly turn nice and red under the glare of the sun.

This year the organisers have gone for a large name headliner with former Gorky main man Euros Childs topping the bill. In support they have the usual cast of local artists with names such as Yucutan, Y Rei and Gwyneth Glyn set to play across the two stages. On arrival I have already missed a couple of acts but I’m there in time for Rei front-man Aron Elias on the second stage. As usual it’s a mixed bag of insanity from the one man musical army as he showcases a range of unique guitar breaking styles. On completing his set he looks almost disappointed at not being allowed to go on for another hour or two.

Gwyneth Glyn provides a gem of a set bringing a heart warming array of Welsh folk songs to life with a gorgeous voice that marks her as a superb Welsh talent. Her music is reassuringly local but not in a bad sense as she embodies the artist who writes about what she knows to be true. The highlight of the day comes from party mental Derwyddon Dr Gonzo who are made for outdoor festivals combined with a drunken audience. As usual it’s a powerful display of up-tempo ska infused tracks which have the gathered masses bopping along happily. The true genius of booking Gonzo for any festival is the time constraint as this way they cannot overstay their welcome and pack as much merry making into the time allowed. Euros Childs tops things off in his own style with a combination of country / pop insanity that marked his time with the Gorky’s

Another year and another total success I would assume given the unbelievable weather and the crowds milling about. Yet the true winner from this festival is the setting as it leaves the attendee with a true sense of the beautiful as well as complementing the gathered acts on show.