Huw Marc Bennett: Review of Heol Las blends Welsh folk with synths, sitars, and surf rock
Huw Marc Bennett’s third album, “Heol Las,” breathes new life into traditional Welsh tunes from Glamorgan with a fusion of past, present, and future elements. Known for its coal and steel production, as well as its rugged landscape, Glamorgan serves as the backdrop for Bennett’s innovative approach to folk music.
As the album moves through the industrial valleys to the picturesque Gower peninsula, each track showcases a unique blend of influences. “Carol Haf” starts the journey with delicate fingerpicking, transitioning into a mesmerizing guitar solo reminiscent of a meditative raga. “Cân y Saer Maen” layers fuzzy organ, acoustic, and electric guitars to create a captivating sound, enhanced by Seth Bye’s skillful fiddling.
Tracks like “Cân Gwasael” and “Yr Abaty” take a synthesizer-driven approach, evoking images of eerie children’s TV show theme songs. In contrast, “Gwenith Gwyn 1837” pairs a haunting chapel organ with the sound of rain, creating a sense of melancholy. “Y Fedwen” stands out as a shimmering gem of psychedelic sounds reminiscent of the iconic Sain Records era.
Bennett’s collaboration with Angela Christofilou on two tunes transcribed by 18th-century bard Iolo Morganwg adds depth to the album. Inspired by Bennett’s nieces, whose experience with Welsh-medium education represents a bridge between past and future, Christofilou’s lyrics resonate with hope and freedom. These tracks serve as a poignant reminder of Wales’s rich history and its potential for revitalization through music.
In a similar vein, Irish folk artist Joshua Burnside’s album, “It’s Not Going to Be Okay,” explores themes of loss and grief with raw emotion. Songs like “Nicer Part of Town” weave simple acoustic guitar melodies with poignant lyrics, while “The Last Armchair” paints a vivid picture of remembrance and longing.
Finnish duo Akkajee’s “Pölynkerääjä” and Irish-English trio the Weaving’s “Dlúth & Inneach” offer their own interpretations of folk music, blending traditional instruments with modern storytelling. These albums showcase the timeless quality of folk music, bridging the gap between past traditions and contemporary experiences.
Overall, Huw Marc Bennett’s “Heol Las” stands out as a testament to the enduring power of folk music in capturing the essence of a region’s history and identity. By combining old melodies with fresh arrangements, Bennett creates a sonic landscape that resonates with both the past and the future, inviting listeners on a transformative journey through Welsh heritage.