Ianto from the band strapped himself in and answered our Dydd Miwsig Cymru questions…Are you doing anything for Welsh Language Music Day 2022?
We’ll be having a quiet one this year, while working on new material for the next album.
What is the first song in the Welsh language you remember, and what does it mean to you?
That’s a tough question because I grew up around Welsh language music so it’s hard to nail down one. I’d say Rue St Michel by Meic Stevens was one I remember from really early on.
Why do you think the day is important, both inside and outside Wales?
It’s great to see so many events happening both inside and outside Wales to promote Welsh language music, and I think it has a role to play especially outside of Wales, but I don’t think it can’t be stated enough that this is funded by the Welsh government as an actual language planning policy… It’s a drop in the ocean in a specific space (music) where the Welsh language is thriving because it’s incentivised. I find it quite exhausting that they can make a lovely day for welsh language music but can’t put real policies in place to safeguard our language properly.
What is the best venue welcoming Welsh music, and why?
Clwb Ifor Bach gives bands the opportunity to bring Welsh music to an audience that might not hear it otherwise. I’ve seen a lot of Welsh language bands play supporting touring headliners to an audience that would never see them otherwise.
What are your top three Welsh Language songs, and why?
Santiago – Endaf Emlyn
Which Welsh albums are you most looking forward to hearing this year?
The new Mellt and Pys Melyn albums will undoubtedly be a highlight.
What do you have coming up in 2022?
