Buzz April 2015 - Music Issue

T’S ON GUIDE. SOUTH WALES WHA APRIL 2015

CHALKIE DAVIES: ROCK PHOTOGRAPHY 'THE NME YEARS' CAITLIN MORAN:

“THE MEMORABLY NAMED ‘BIG COCK JIM’ STILL MAKES ME HOOT”

BELLE AND SEBASTIAN

PLUS LAUGHARNEWEEKEND | ZERVASANDPEPPER | INDIERECORDSHOPS | WINVODKA

april2015

buzz... publisher EMMA CLARK editor HEATHER ARNOLD listings/music editor NOEL GARDNER film technician (buzz tv) JAYDON MARTIN administration TERESA CLARK designer POLAR 10 contributors RYAN HEEGER (CLUBS), KEIRON SELF (FILM), SINNEAD ALI, SIMON AYRE, LLOYD BEST, ALEX CORNISH, DENIECE CUSACK, ELLEN DAVIES, JON DOYLE, BEN GALLIVAN, EMMA GOULD, DAVID GRIFFITHS, ROB HARRIES, ASHLEY HARRISON, RHIANON HOLLEY, ADAM JONES, MAB JONES, TRYSTAN KENT, KATHRYN LEWIS, JENNIFER MAGUY, GARETH MOULE, DAN MULLER, DAVID NOBAKHT, DAMI OKHIRIA, GARETH PIERCE, CHARLIE PIERCEY, RHONDA LEE REALI, HUGH RUSSELL, CHRIS SEAL, STEPHEN SPRINGATE, GETHIN THOMAS phone number 029 2022 6767 general enquiries info@buzzmag.co.uk editorial editorial@buzzmag.co.uk listings listings@buzzmag.co.uk advertising marketing@buzzmag.co.uk accounts accounts@buzzmag.co.uk BUZZ MAGAZINE 220C Cowbridge Road East, Canton, Cardiff CF5 1GY published EAC PUBLISHING contents by CHALKIE DAVIES cover CHALKIE DAVIES

04roundup

“.The fantastically named Soul Lotta Funk”

14upfront

“Music was my first love, and it shall be my last,” sang the common mayfly, at some point during its 24-hour lifespan. Enough time to pick up this issue of Buzz, peruse its MUSIC SPECIAL with Belle & Sebastian, Seasick Steve and Zervas And Pepper, and download all their discographies (reading our interviews with Caitlin Moran and Chalkie Davies while waiting)

32film

Casually thrown into the last sentence of Keiron Self’s review of John Wick is the bombshell that Keanu Reeves is 50! Time makes fools of us all, they say, but not as much as playing Glastonbury with your band Dogstar and having a tennis ball thrown from the crowd audibly hit your guitar strings

34food&drink

Easter time brings with it some articles which hint at the holiday, without actively buying into it: a guide to gourmet Welsh chocolate, so you might eschew foilwrapped eggs; five of the best lamb recipes you will ever read; and a paean to the benefits of fibre, like the hair shirt we wear to better understand Christ’s suffering

40previews

As everyone knows, the best way to convey something’s greatness is to compare it to something else. Mariana Sadovska, for example, is called the “Ukrainian Björk” in both her press bumph and our preview; meanwhile, on the Art page, Barrie J Davies gets compared to Noel Fielding. For his painting abilities, that is, not his comedic ones

48reviews

What was taken out of this section for space reasons this month, you ask? Why, it was Ryan’s review of The Skints’ FM, an album which features a dub reggae cover of My War by Black Flag. I can’t comment further on this song as it’s still being investigated by a UN human rights panel

53lifestyle

It’s a music special, like I already told you. This bit features a potted guide to local independent record shops, many of who sell albums by everyone from [artist] to [artist who sounds very different], and a selection of quasi-novelty gifts such as guitar-shaped salad servers. Which are infuriatingly called ‘Rockin’ Spoons’ and not ‘Riff Salad’

55listings

I’ve been asked by Buzz’s legal team to point out that contrary to the claim in these listings, you won’t actually be able to buy limited picture disc reissues of Mad If Ya Don’t by the twins from Neighbours, or Today’s The Day by Sean Maguire, on Record Store Day. You will be able to buy a James Last single, though

78competitions

Q: For what occasion was Machynlleth’s clock tower erected? A: To commemorate George Monbiot learning to tell the time

www.buzzmag.co.uk • www.twitter.com/buzz_magazine • www.facebook.com/buzzsouthwales

roundup

WHAT’S ON OUR RADAR THIS MONTH.

BRIEFLY

MUSIC

MERMAID QUAY MUSIC FESTIVAL The one thing better than a music festival is a free music festival. After a successful showcase of music and activities in Cardiff Bay last year, the Mermaid Quay Music Festival returns for another 10 days of free events.

TV music competitions will be well represented in the line-up as both John Adams, a former X Factor contestant, and Ragsy, as seen on The Voice, will be performing.

Other bands belting out their tunes on the waterfront will be rock’n’roll cover band Rocket Joe Joe & The Old Time Bangers, contemporary folk group the James Clode Band and the fantastically named Soul Lotta Funk.

There will also be a change of tune on Sat 11 as a whole host of choirs and solo performers will be taking the stage, all hosted by Tenovus Cancer Care. In addition to these performances, the festival will be hosting interactive music and craft workshops for kids.

Mermaid Quay Music Festival, Cardiff Bay, Fri 3-Sun 12 Apr. Admission: free. Info: 029 2048 0077 / www.mermaidquay.co.uk

WELSH UNSIGNED STAND-UP AWARDS Stand-up has become big business.

With many big name comedians raking in millions each year it’s obvious that the form has travelled far from its humble origins in working men’s clubs and seaside theatres.

Though this change of comic pace has meant more people get to enjoy the hard work of this or that big name act, it can push hilarious new voices away from the limelight.

That’s where the Welsh Unsigned Stand-Up Awards (WUSA) come in, aiming to help aspiring local comedians kickstart their career by offering novice comedians the chance to win £1,000 and a paid weekend at the Glee Club – a top spot in this year’s Cardiff Comedy Festival lineup.

The winner will be announced in July during the festival, but there will be plenty of chances to check out the talent as the competition’s heats begin this month.

Welsh Unsigned Stand-Up Awards Heat 1 + 2, The Other Room Theatre, Porter’s Bar, Cardiff, Mon 13 + 20 Apr. Tickets: £5. Info: www.cardiffcomedy.co.uk

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LOVERS OF NATURE and the great outdoors, take note: the Chepstow Walking Festival will be exploring the scenic landscape of Monmouthshire and the breathtaking Wye Valley this month, with 22 walks for all levels. From Thurs 9 to Sun 12 Apr, the festival will be encouraging both beginners and more seasoned walkers to get moving. Experienced walk leaders will guide you on routes of varying lengths (from two to 14 miles).

There will be many trails to choose from as the walks follow railways, explore castles and indulge in stargazing.

Info: 01291 641856 / www.walksinchepstow.co.uk

• CELEBRATE ALL THE MYSTERIES of the sky and the stars at the Hay Dark Skies Festival in Hay-on-Wye this month. The festival will be taking place between Fri 17 and Sun 19 Apr and will offer everyone – children, new observers, enthusiasts and experts – the chance to learn more about the night sky. There will be talks, tours and stargazing sessions across Hayon-Wye and in the Brecon Beacons (which won a Dark Sky Reserve award in 2013 and is one of the best areas in Wales to observe the night sky).

Astronomical activities on offer include solar observing, rocket launching, talks with specialists, a planetarium visit and lots of looking up.

Info: www.darkskiesfestival.org

•

AFRO-BRAZILIAN SPIRIT creates a party atmosphere as the biggest group of samba musicians in Cardiff, Samba Galez, celebrate their 25th Anniversary. To mark the occasion they will be hosting an Encontro – a gathering of the samba community – at Portland House in Cardiff Bay. Sun 3 May will bring an evening of music and samba madness! Expect a night filled with Afro-Brazilian rhythms, music and dance.

Info: www.sambagalez.info

ART ACROSS THE CITY ART

Swansea’s annual showcase of public art return this year, and celebrates its 15th anniversary as it does so. While most 15-year-old would celebrate their birthday with a house party fuelled by alcopops Locws International - the people behind Art Across The City - will do so with a tap-dancing boulder, golden palm trees and helium balloons (okay this one is birthday-esque, but the balloons are filled with pictures of Swansea’s Civic Centre).

The collection of pieces expose the history and culture of the city, and tells tales that even Swansea residents might not have heard of. Some of the artist involved include Graham Dolphin will be erecting a memorial for the city’s American namesake, a ghost town in California’s Death Valley, and Bedwyr Williams – who has commemorated the night two men, dressed in drag, stood their ground when faced by abuse.

These are just two of the 15 artists involved this year and, on top of taking in their creations, there will also be talks, tours and workshops to get involved in.

Art Across The City, across Swansea, until Mon 1 June. Admissions: free.

Info: www.locwsinternational.com

PERFORMING MEDICINE They shape who we are, get us from place to place and can make us both proud and ashamed. Our bodies are an inescapable part of life but how much do we really know about them? How in touch are we with our own amalgamation of flesh, bones and organs? And how much of our knowledge of anatomy goes little further than singing “heads, shoulders, knees and toes”?

Last year the performance company Clod Ensemble created their Anatomy Season to educate audiences about the captivating world of our bodies, they are keeping the learning going with their new season of workshops and talks: Performing Medicine.

This month renowned performer Peggy Shaw will be running Written In The Body – a workshop that gets people to discover the stories of their own bodies, a topic Shaw knows well as she had to rediscover her body after having a stroke – while in May mezzo soprano Kate Woolveridge and the Forget Me Not chorus, a charity that supports those with dementia, will show how participants engage with music. Clod Ensemble will also be teaming up with Cardiff University's School Of Medicine to deliver workshops exploring anatomy, movement and illustration.

STAGE

Performing Medicine, Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay, Sat 11 April + events in May. Tickets: £5. Info: www.performingmedicine.com

EVENT

CARDIFF INDEPENDENT FILM FESTIVAL Wales may be the new home of the big Pinewood Studios but, amongst the Bond films and The Crow remakes, there is still plenty of indy film talent to indulge in, as the Cardiff Independent Film Festival will demonstrate.

Now in its second year the festival, which includes screenings workshops and film competitions, has an exciting programme planned. Highlights includes a Q&A with Point Blank and Deliverance director John Boorman – who will be screening his new film Queen And Country, a masterclass with Stephen Frears (director of Philomena and Dangerous Liaisons) and Paul Andrew Williams (London To Brighton, Cherry Tree Lane) and a comedy film showcase.

The people behind the festival have also narrowed down over 200 short film entires to just 10 nominees for the Cardiff Independent Film Festival Awards. Then 10 films will be screened during the festival before a panel of judges (including Carol Morley, Jan Dunn and Tom and Charles Guard) choose this year’s Cardiff indy film star.

Cardiff Independent Film Festival, Porters + Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff, Tue 14-Sun 19 April. Tickets: individual events priced separately. Info: www.cardifffilmfest.org.uk BUZZ 07

roundup

WHAT’S ON OUR RADAR THIS MONTH.

RHS FLOWER SHOW Romantic poets, green-thumbed gardeners, botanists: all of them have a soft spot for the bright and beautiful world of flowers, as do the Royal Horticultural Society who will bringing their flower show back to Cardiff this month. The annual event will be returning to the beautiful Bute Park, where exhibitors from 54 of the UK's top plant nurseries will be putting their floral offerings on display and offering visitors ideas and inspiration for their own gardens.

As well as plenty of flora to fawn over, there will be advice for budding gardeners.

Expect plenty of displays that take on the unique challenges of growing plants in an urban environment (including a green kitchen and garden office), a workshop on how to make your garden hedgehog friendly, and pots full of information at the RHS Talks & Demonstration Theatre – hosted by BBC presenter Toby Buckland.

As well as all that flower talk there will be live music, artisan food and craft stalls.

EVENT

RHS Flower Show Cardiff 2015, Bute Park, Cardiff, Fri 17-Sun 19 Apr. Admission: £12 (RHS members £10) / £8.50 adv (RHS members £7.50) / under-16s free. Info: www.rhs.org.uk/cardiff

GREEN MAN HEADLINERS EVENT

The festival which sets up camp in the breathtaking Black Mountains every summer has slowly been revealing this year’s lineup and now the three Green Man headliners have all been announced. Baroque pop queen St Vincent, London indie-meetssynthpop band Hot Chip and Welsh heroes the Super Furry Animals will be heading to the Brecon Beacons to take centre stage.

Other big names in attendance at Green Man this year are the genre-bending duo Public Service Broadcasting, psychedelic foursome Temples and electro-pop pioneer Jamie XX. This isn’t a music-only festival, however, as Green Man is split into different areas offering different types of entertainment.

Try spoken word at the Babbling Tongues area, take in some science talks at Einstein’s Garden or just chill out by the stream at Fortune Falls.

The Green Man Festival, Glanusk Park, Brecon, Thurs 20-Sun 23 Aug. Tickets: £165 adult / £140 student / £100 teen / £15 under-12s / free under-4s. Day tickets available to residents.

Info: www.greenman.net

BEYOND THE MARCHES Beyond The Marches / Dros y Ffin brings together six talented folk musicians (including Welsh Music Prize winner Georgia Ruth, Cardiffian fiddle player Patrick Rimes and Elan Rhys, lead singer of contemporary folk group Plu), from both England and Wales, and asks them to explore the nations’ shared history, culture and music.

For the past few months these musical folk have been digging in the archives and resurrecting traditional song. Now they are using their findings to create a show that demonstrates and embraces a rediscovered piece of music history, whilst mixing it with their own contemporary sounds.

Beyond The Marches / Dros y Ffin, Aberystwyth Arts Centre, Sat 2 May; Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay, Sun 3 May. Tickets: £8.75-£17.50. Info: 01970 623232 / www.aberystwythartscentre. co.uk (Aberystwyth); 029 2063 6464 / www.wmc.org.uk (Cardiff)

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EVENT

Van Morrison 27 April

Milton Jones 14 May

Stefan Grossman 21 April

The Magic of Motown 23 April

Caitlin Moran 16 April

Paul Merton’s Impro Chums 4 May

Sing-A-Long-A Sound of Music 30 April

Lord of the Dance 7 - 12 April

Killer Queen 2 May

BUZZ 9

roundup

WHAT’S ON OUR RADAR THIS MONTH.

BETHAN ELFYN As the next 12 bands selected for the Horizons scheme are to be announced this month, Heather Arnold talks to BBC Radio Wales presenter and musical marvel behind the project, Bethan Elfyn.

When did you first come up with the idea for the Horizons project?

It was a mix of ideas initially and very good timing as the BBC and Arts Council had started discussing ways of collaborating and trying to think differently about how we support the arts.

What do you hope to achieve with Horizons 12?

We want to elevate Welsh music as a whole. By pooling resources (whether that’s radio, TV coverage, or festival appearances) over a concentrated number of artists, we might see some success stories breaking through. This project is about promotion, collaboration, repetition and finding unique opportunities for the artists. We've had great feedback from this year's group about how much confidence they've gained from regular appearances, gigs and airplay, which is great. It’s a well-known fact that pop music has regular playlists that helps to break artists across the world – we grow to love a song by hearing the same song over and over. We are just putting this into practice in Wales to start with.

Do you have a favourite Horizons memory?

FAVOURITE ALBUM Bethan Elfyn GP / Grievous Angel

by Gram Parsons I'm feeling the country vibe and it'll be Gram Parsons' GP / Grievous Angel. How can music be so sad, and so uplifting at the same time?

The sun shone at so many of our events and we had a really glorious summer, but the Eisteddfod week stands out too. I genuinely felt an excitement seeing our bands play at Maes B in front of such huge crowds. By the time Swn Festival happened in Cardiff, all the bands were riding the crest of the momentum, and it was one-in-one-out for most of the bands at Clwb Ifor Bach. The favourite aspect for me has been growing to know the bands and artists, getting to know them as people and characters, as well as the events and special occasions like Maida Vale and our music industry camp at Fforest, West Wales.

Have you narrowed down the entries yet? Has it been difficult picking out the final 12?

It's an impossible task, but we've got a great new roster ready to announce on Mon 6 April.

Info: www.bbc.co.uk/horizons BUZZ 10

BOOK NOW TEXAS St David’s Hall, Cardiff Tue 5 May Tickets: £32.50-£54.25 Info: 029 2087 8444 www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk BALLET CYMRU: CINDERELLA The Riverfront, Newport Fri 8 + Sat 9 May Tickets: £7-£14 Info: 01633 656679 www.newport.gov.uk/Riverfront SEX IN SUBURBIA New Theatre, Cardiff Wed 13 + Thurs 14 May Tickets: £10-£26 Info: 029 2087 8889 www.newtheatrecardiff.co.uk MURDER ON THE NILE Aberystwyth Arts Centre Thurs 14-Sat 16 May Tickets: £5-£10 Info: 01970 623232 www.aberystwythartscentre.co.uk WELSH NATIONAL OPERA: PETER PAN Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay Sat 16, Sat 23 + Sun 31 May Tickets: £5-£40 Info: 029 2063 6464 www.wmc.org.uk CATRIN FINCH: TIDES Aberystwyth Arts Centre Fri 22 May Tickets: £7.50-£15 Info: 01970 623232 www.aberystwythartscentre.co.uk ONLY ONE DIRECTION Grand Theatre, Swansea Tue 26 May Tickets: £14 Info: 01792 475715 www.swansea.gov.uk YOUNG FATHERS Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff Wed 27 May Tickets: £10-£13 Info: 029 2023 2199 www.clwb.net JOHN BARROWMAN Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff Sat 30 May Tickets: £28.95-£51.25 Info: 029 2022 4488 www.motorpointarenacardiff.co.uk

“a lovely place... cracking value” The Guardian

@ffreshCardiff ffresh.org.uk 029 2063 6465

Fel y gwelwyd yn \ Featured in

Michelin Guide 2015 Good Food Guide 2015

calan mai Mai 1- 4 May ’15 ^

Gwyl CeRDDORiaeth weRin Am Ddim FRee Folk muSic FeStival

THE DRUMMERS OF JAPAN

Llun o \ Image of Gwyneth Glyn: Dewi Glyn. René Griffiths: Keith Morris

Ebr 27 Apr ’15

RENÉ GRIFFITHS

Gwyneth Glyn

COWBOIS RHOS BOTWNNOG • DYLAN FOWLER • GILDAS • TRIAWD LITTLE ARROW • RAG FOUNDATION • EDWARD JAY • GWENAN GIBBARD GARETH BONELLO & RICHARD JAMES • GWILYM BOWEN RHYS ROBIN HUW BOWEN • DAWNSWYR BRO TAF & DAWNSWYR NANTGARW

DRos Y Ffin

Beyond The maRches

Tocynnau: wmc.org.uk/CalanMai

Tickets: wmc.org.uk/CalanMai

gyda Georgia Ruth ar 3 Mai ’15

wmc.org.uk 029 2063 6464

featuring Georgia Ruth on 3 May ’15

‘Pure Energy Meets Spiritual High’

‘A Genuinely Theatrical Experience’

The Scotsman

The Telegraph

roundup

WHAT’S ON OUR RADAR THIS MONTH.

EVENT

JUDGEMENT DAY III

pic: Jon Candy

?

SOUTH WALES SECRET #53 Cardiff Market

With the imminent re-release of the Super Furry Animals' Welsh language album, Mwng, and the group recently announced as 2015's Green Man headliners, Heather Arnold talks to frontman Gruff Rhys about his South Wales Secret.

The Super Furry Animals are back! Not that they were ever really gone: two decades' worth of music making doesn’t disappear overnight and the bands various members have sailed off on their own projects over the last couple of years (Gruff Rhys, for example, is currently creating a Christmas show with National Theatre Wales). However, they've now regrouped as a band, with a May tour and festival slots on the horizon.

To celebrate their return to active service, the band will be re-issuing their Welsh language album Mwng. “It's an album we love,” explains Gruff, “it's out of print and it's never been digitised - so the 15th anniversary seemed to be a nice odd number to make it available again.”

First released in 2000, Mwng reached number 11 in the UK album charts, was listed in the ‘Best Albums Of 2000’ by both Melody Maker and NME, and remains the biggest selling Welsh language album of all time.

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Gruff is confident that songs written in Welsh can be appreciated outside the country’s borders.

“I believe there's a huge appetite internationally for good music in any tongue. There are often great records released in the Welsh language. Gwenno's recent Y Dydd Olaf album is an outstanding futuristic collection of songs, and Y Ffug are a righteous punk rock band that rule in a world of bland.”

In an attempt to stray away from bland places, Gruff gives away his South Wales secret: “It's hardly a secret but Cardiff's original Central Market is way better than St David's mall – you can't buy seaweed and second-hand records at the Apple store.”

Mwng is re-released on Fri 1 May by Domino Records. Info: www.superfurry.com Super Furry Animals, Great Hall, Cardiff University, Fri 1-Sun 3 May. Tickets: £30. Info: 029 2078 1458 / www.cardiffstudents.com

As the national press cries that we are all being priced out of football stadiums, and with the next Six Nations possibly moving to the world of pay TV, the £10 tickets for April's rugby union faceoff Judgement Day III are a nice breath of fresh air in the world of professional sports.

You’ll get more match for your money as well, as the regional rugby teams of Wales provide a double-hitter. The Cardiff Blues will be taking on the Ospreys at 2.30pm, while the Newport Gwent Dragons face the Scarlets at 4.45pm.

The back-to-back battles are set to be intense as local rivals hit the pitch. “There are some great friendships across the four teams” says Wales captain Sam Warburton, “but when you go out onto that pitch you give everything for your region and put friendships aside for that 80 minutes.

“Derby days are often more intense than the European matches, very fiercely contested.”

Judgement Day III, Millennium Stadium, Cardiff, Sat 25 Apr. Tickets: £10.

Info: 08700 138 600 / www. millenniumstadium.com

Metropolis Music by arrangement with The Agency Group present

DYDD GWENER / FRIDAY 01 MAI / MAY DYDD SADWRN / SATURDAY 02 MAI / MAY

CAERDYDD / CARDIFF UNIVERSITY Gigsandtours.com Ticketmaster.co.uk Seetickets.com TOCYNNAU AR WERTH DYDD IAU MAWRTH 05 AM 9AM TICKETS ON SALE THURSDAY 05 MARCH AT 9AM Albwm “Mwng” ailgyhoeddir 01 Mai ar Domino / Album ‘Mwng’ reissued 01 May on Domino Superfurry.com f/Superfurryanimals.sfa U@Superfurry

E I K L A CH DAVIES heard of e v a h t o n y a m u o Y t recognise o n t h ig m u o y , im h hances c t u b t, e e tr s e th him on e work of th n e e s e ’v u o y re a ts have o h s is H . s ie v a D Chalkie s of NME e g a p e th d e rn o d a l point of a c fo e th n e e b d n a rs. He e v o c rd o c re ic n o many ic ld about o n r A r e th a e H talks to nt return to his work’s immine Wales.

How do you feel about your retu rn to Wales?

I am starting by talking to my dear frien d Chris Difford [from Squeeze] at the Laugharne Weekend. It's my first ever gig and at the Millennium Hall. We’re speak ing after Alexei Sayle, which seems the wron g way around. I have no idea why I'm on after him, perhaps he has to get home early .

The honour bestowed by National Muse um Wales is very humbling. To have a retrospective at the National Museum in Cardiff means the world to me. They have been incredibly supportive of this project.

It has taken three years to restore and print these images, but worth every minu te.

Can you remember the first pho tographs you ever took?

I used to go to Barry Scrapyard, where all the steam trains were sent to die. I took pictures of the engines, often in close up, which foreshadowed my second career, 1988-2011, when I moved to New York and opened a still life studio, working for clients as diverse as the New York Time s, Clinique and Apple.

My first live show was Led Zeppelin in 1972 at Alexandra Palace. That was a breakthrough moment.

What drew you to photograph y?

I loved looking at LP sleeves and there were three records that really stuck out. When Pink Floyd's Atom Heart Mother came out, the cover was a photo of a cow; visually it was stunning, such a powerful image and it championed the idea that you didn’t have to feature the group. Then the next one was Concerto For Group And Orchestra by Deep Purple and the London Philharmo nic Orchestra. It was a picture of the insid e of the Albert Hall but the group were just in a box – meaning they seemed tiny. That made me think ‘you can do this more often , you can make sleeves that don’t have to be a picture of the group’.

When Meddle, by Pink Floyd, came out the inside cover was a photo of the BUZZ 14

group on a white background. I loved the stark look, the intimacy of just the four members sittin g in a row.

There was something about that picture that grabbed me. I'd say that was when I knew I wanted to be like Hipg nosis, the design company that did the artwork for Meddle. Many years later I worked on a David Gilmour LP sleeve with Storm Thor gerson, from Hipgnosis, and discovered that it’s actually four individual pictures put together. One of the ways Hipgnosis worked was to creat e an unreality within a reality by taking a picture, moving the camera, taking another picture and stitching them together. So Meddle alway s stuck in my mind.

Working with Storm was a childhood dream achieved. Rock'n'roll gave me the chance to meet, and work with, pretty much every one I admired. I was very lucky to have the opportunities that I did. I went all over the world. I had the best job. Working on the NME at such a crucial and pivotal time was an incredible experience.

You left your career as an airc raft engineer to go into photography –what mad e you decide to take the leap?

I came home after Bowie's final gig as Ziggy Stardust and looked at the film. There were a lot of good images.

I felt it was my destiny to do this. Being an aircraft engineer and fixing computers on jumbo jets was cool, but the lure of joining the rock'n'roll circus was too great to resist.

Why did you decided pursue rock photography?

At the NME as well as live work we also photographed the musicians during inter views, this meant pictures of people talking. This wasn’t always that great because you’d end up with pictures of their hand in their face. So I think in early ‘76 I sugge sted there was another way to do this and could we get five minutes separ ately to photoraph the people. The Debbie Harr y picture might be one of the first studio thing I did.

Once I did that I thought ‘this is much bette r, I really like this’ so I would drag lights everywhere and start setting up.

The Clash cover in ‘77 is the first white back ground NME cover, although it was done in a tiny space at [Clash mana ger] Bernie Rhodes' office, but you can see the development from there. It was slightly going against type because a picture in a studio was normally consi dered to be a press picture – a handout picture from the PR. But I thought you could do more than just line these people up. I also think it’s a much purer form of photography because you just have the person against a plain background. You zero in on the face or the person and there’s nothing to distract you. I moved into the studio in 1979 and never came back out.

THE NME YEARS

BUZZ 15

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BUZZ 16

What/who was your most difficult photo shoot?

I get asked this all the time. Shoots can be tricky because of logistics, circumstances, situations. But the shoots always work. If you are doing the Ramones for an NME cover, or The Specials for an album cover, they pay attention. There is mutual respect. They trust you.

Some of the shoots were done in corridors, some in hotel rooms. It’s really about the eyes and the persona and just getting the person to relax and getting their character to come through. You’d be amazed what you can do with eye gestures and hand gestures, the sitter will follow you. It’s all in the eyes: you just have to wait until that person is relaxe d enough and then be ready to get them at the right moment and bring their character through.

Some people know what they were doing, some people didn’t. I think it was McCartney I did in the mid-7 0s and I remember asking him to do something and he did it. So I asked him to do something else and he did that, and I thought ‘this is cool, you can talk to them and ask them to do things’.

Shooting Pete Townsend a couple of weeks later and I did the same thing and he was sort of like ‘oh God, it’s so much easier when people tell us what to do’.

I’m like ‘really?’. He said ‘Yeah – what are we suppo sed to do, we just stand there!’ So once you get past that and realise that they’ll trust you and do what you what, then you spend a lot of time working out hand positions.

There’s lots of subtlety to it. If you have a perso n rest their hand on their face you can’t just do that, you have to do it without pressure other wise their eye gets pushed up. And then there’s an umbilical cord in as much as we had these ‘bounce boards’ – it’s a reflective surface, a white silk that folds up into a circle , but when it opens it’s about three or four feet across. You could hook that up to the tripod and put it on the sitter’s knees, that way they don’t go anywhere. That causes a link between you and the person. If you have someone that is flighty and keeps movin g around you just put them on the floor – trust me, they won't get up from there.

What do you consider to be your best photo?

Tough choice. The poster of Elvis [Costello] on Green for Armed Forces, the cover of Thin Lizzy's Live And Dangerous, the back cover of the first Specials LP, and the portraits of David Gilmour and David Byrne.

Which of your photos has the best stor y behind it?

George Martin.

He had commissioned a portrait. We had met via Paul McCartney, and through Paul and I had met the producer, Chris Thomas. Chris had been George's engineer on the White Album. We becam e good friends when we both worked on the first Pretenders LP. Anyway, we had agreed to shoot George in Londo n. He was at Air Studios, which he owned, and we had often set the portable studio up in this location.

I went to tell him we were there, but a little early.

What was strange was that there was an old EMI security guard at the door to the control room. George saw us throu gh the glass and waved us in. There was another security guard inside.

On the mixing desk was a tape box; written on it in pencil was "The Beatles – Sgt. Pepper". My heart skipped a beat. I knew George was in town for a special reason, and I soon found out what it was.

He had to listen to the master tape for Sgt. Peppe r to approve its release on CD. It was 20 years since its issue as an LP. He invited us to join him. We sat and listened to the entire LP with him, it was beyond magical. George is such a lovely man, gracious and funny, and he had allowed us the experience of a lifetime. The portrait of him is in the show.

"When Paul McCartney adds your name to 'Something' at reheArsals, that's pretty cool."

Chalkie Davies: The NME Years, Natio nal Museum Wales, Cardiff, Sat 9 May-Sun 6 Sept (lunc htime talk with Chalkie Fri 22 May). Admissions: free. Info: 029 2039 7951 / www. museumwales.ac.uk Chalkie Davies, Laugharne Weekend , Carmarthenshire, Fri 10 Apr. Tickets: £75 weekend. Info: see page 18.

BUZZ 17

upfront FOR THE LOVE OF LAUGHARNE AND MICK HOUGHTON Once a year the former home of Dylan Thomas becomes flooded with poets and performers, as the Laugharne Weekend festival returns. Amongst the comedians, musicians and other interesting people in this year’s line-up is Mick Houghton – author of a new biography on the life of folk music icon Sandy Denny.

Do you remember the moment you first heard Sandy Denny’s music?

There are times when I’m almost embarrassed at how much music still means to me. I feel I should have grown out of it by now. Hearing Sandy Denny the first time I can place very specifically; it was a Fairport Convention studio session for John Peel’s Top Gear show in early September 1968 and the song that really knocked me out was Fotheringay. A couple of weeks later I saw them play and I couldn’t take my eyes off Sandy Denny. I was just totally hypnotised by her and that voice. I still am and throughout the last 40-odd years, I find myself going back to her music again and again. Different songs or different albums can still take on a new lease of life.

Was it daunting writing about the life of a much loved musical icon?

It was incredibly daunting because I felt such a huge responsibility to try and get it right, to capture her as best I could and give a flavour the times. Sandy Denny was a really complex character, loved by friends and fans alike, but with an almost Jekyll and Hyde personality. She could be a nightmare, but as one friend put it, she was also endlessly forgivable. That was a comment from drummer Bruce Rowland who had a great perspective because he was brought into Fairport Convention early in 1976 but didn’t know Sandy or the band before he joined, so he could see it from the outside looking in. He witnessed her wild mood swings first hand but, as he so eloquently puts it: “She only had to open her mouth and sing and the synchronised weeping would start.”

Were you surprised by anything you discovered when you were researching the book?

Most of the people I spoke to were friends of hers, whether they were fellow musicians or record company people or just people she encountered along the way, but they were all tremendously affected by her dying to a point where so many of them said there’s nobody they still miss as much as they do Sandy. She touched the lives of everybody she came into contact with. She was so charismatic, she had a very quick mind, a kind of chaotic intelligence and larger than life presence, but at the same time she could be a mess, crippled by low self-esteem. I think it was that conflict and that vulnerability that she poured into her songwriting, but which ultimately ate away at her.

BUZZ 18

Have you been to Laugharne Weekend before? What do you plan to see this year?

I haven’t been before, although I’ve always been aware of it, and the mix of music and spoken word has always been its appeal. I’m a big crime fiction fan so I’m looking forward to seeing Mark Bellingham and how that’s going to work with him interacting with country duo My Darling Clementine.

Apparently I’m up against Harry Hill but I’m hoping the lure of Sandy Denny will prove too strong for a few people. Otherwise it’s going to be very lonely; Julie Murphy is going to sing a few of Sandy’s songs so I hope she’s not just singing to me. Either way it’ll be synchronised weeping time again.

Laugharne Weekend, Carmarthenshire, Fri 10-Sun 12 Apr. Tickets: £75 weekend / some individual events priced separately. Info: www. s452743659.websitehome.co.uk

FAVOURITE ALBUM

Mick Houghton Bert Jansch by Bert Jansch The album was released 50 years ago this April. 1965 was the year I discovered so many things and folk became cool for the first time because of the commercial impact of Dylan going electric and The Byrds; they radically rebooted American rock‘n’roll.

LAUGHARNE LINE-UP Mick isn’t the only one who will be turning up as the festival has a sizeable programme of talks, music, comedy and other performances. Here are some of our highlights.

Comedy won’t be left behind at Laugharne as several big name comedians will be getting their joke books out. The bald headed host of Harry Hill’s TV Burp, Harry Hill (obviously), will be talking about the failure of his X-Factor spoof musical I Can’t Sing in his show Harry Hill Flop. While the equally bald IranianBritish comedian Omid Dajili will also be popping up, as will wobbly Radio 4 favourite Francesca Martinez and Alexei Sayle (as seen on The Young Ones and Alexei Sayle’s Stuff).

On the more musical side of the festival will be performances from former Sonic Youth singer/ guitarist Thurston Moore, Welsh folk legend Meic Stevens, former Jayhawks frontman Mark Olson and current Stornoway frontman Brian Briggs. Music will also join forces with literature as crime writer Mark Billingham and country music duo My Darling Clementine presents their collaboration: The Other Half.

Storytelling is a strong theme at Laugharne and spoken word makes an appearance. The ‘Bard Of Salford’ Dr John Cooper Clarke makes his annual visit to the festival.

Also waxing lyrical will be poet/comedian John Hegley and Buzz’s very own columnist Mab Jones. pic: ''Portrait by Vera Marmelo'

“It’ll be synchronised weeping time again”

BUZZ 19

upfront

BELLE AND SEBASTIAN As much loved Glaswegian indie team Belle And Sebastian head to Cardiff, Alex Cornish talks to the band’s keyboardist Chris Geddes about their latest album. pic: Soren Solkaer Starbird

The band's been together for almost 20 years. Why have you decided now was the time to write a pop album?

We’ve always had a hard time describing ourselves as a band. I think people like Stuart [Murdoch, vocals] and Sarah [Martin, violin/vocals] have always aspired to make pop music. We’ve never wanted to think of ourselves as an indie band as it’s always seemed like a rather negative thing. Over the years, the production has certainly got more polished and records got more ‘pop’ as tastes in the band changed. We’ve never consciously planned the direction in the band; we’ve always just let the musical direction be dictated by the way the songwriting has gone.

Is this why you chose to work with producer Ben Allen?

There were a number of reasons; I really liked the Animal Collective record he worked on [Merriweather Post Pavilion]. Of course everyone in the band was a big fan of the Gnarls Barkley record. It’s hard not to be! More than that though, he was someone who was going to push us somewhere we hadn’t been before. Being in such a large band with so many big personalities it’s important to get someone who is going to click, and get the best out of everyone.

What sort of music were you listening to before you started writing this album? Certain songs like Party Lines have this clear disco/funk influence for example.

Bob [Kildea, bass] came up with the idea for that. He wanted to do a record with a big hook in it. He’d been listening to a lot of Nile Rodgers and wanted to get that big guitar sound into the music somehow. Stevie [Jackson, guitarist] also plays in a disco cover band in Glasgow so I think he’s been listening very heavily to a lot of disco stuff. Richard [Colburn, drummer] also DJs – mostly newer stuff that shares that influence, the Todd Terje disco edits for example. There’s a lot more synthesizer stuff on the record and so I’ve been having a lot of fun playing on this one. Personally, I found myself listening to a lot of old soul music and jazz records.

BUZZ 20

Talking of records, I’ve read that you’re a big collector. With Record Store Day coming up, is there anything coming out you're excited about?

I don’t buy as much as I used to, as I’ve got to the point where I’ve run out of storage in my flat. I do a night where I DJ using only vinyl so I do pick up the odd record for that. I’m more into my older stuff than newer releases at this stage.

There’s a Northern Soul tune called Just Like The Weather that I’ve been very keen to find for a while. As for RSD, I’m sure there’s something I’ll pick up.

In a previous interview Stuart said that that Nobody’s Empire was the most personal song he’s ever written. Is there any track on the album that you that’s particularly personal to you?

The one that I had the biggest input in to was the song Perfect Couples. That one started with a few riffs that I wrote, with Stevie doing the lyrics and melody. Since the record came out I’ve split up with my long-term partner and with it being about her, it’s become my most personal song in a very unwelcome way.

What are you planning for the rest of 2015?

We’ll be touring this new album into the autumn and plan on playing a few festivals over the summer, including Festival Number 6 in Portmeirion. Something we’ve always struggled with is juggling touring and coming up with new stuff, but we are always keen to get back in the practice room and start working on new stuff.

Belle And Sebastian, St David’s Hall, Cardiff, Sun 3 May. Tickets: £25. Info: 029 2087 8444 / www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk Girls In Peacetime Want To Dance (Matador Records) by Belle And Sebastian is out now. www.belleandsebastian.com

@CARDIFFUNION CARDIFFBOXOFFICE CARDIFFBOXOFFICE.COM All tickets subject to booking fee

Super Furry Animals 02/05/15 - SOLD OUT

April Lower Than Atlantis 09/04/15, £12 ADV

Super Furry Animals 03/05/15 - SOLD OUT

Limehouse Lizzy vs Livewire AC/DC

Uriah Heep

17/04/15, £20 ADV

Hoobastank/P.O.D/ Alien Ant Farm

May

15/05/15, £22 ADV

Treatment

01/05/15, FROM £19.50 ADV

Super Furry Animals 01/05/15 - SOLD OUT

@CARDIFFUNION

07/05/15, £22 ADV

Legend – Bob Marley Tribute 24/05/15, £13 ADV

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June Young Guns

04/06/15, £12.50 ADV

July Karyn White

11/07/15, £20 ADV

October Peace

03/10/15, £15 ADV

CARDIFFBOXOFFICE.COM | All tickets subject to booking fee

BUZZ 21

upfront THE CARNALLY CRAMMED CREATIVITY OF CAITLIN MORAN Funny, filthy and feminist journalist Caitlin Moran is the author of the best-selling memoir How To Be A Woman and creator of the brand new sitcom Raised By Wolves. Now she’s coming to Cardiff as she celebrates her latest novel How To Build A Girl. Despite this busy schedule, she somehow finds the time to talk to Heather Arnold about top hats, teenagers and big cocks.

For those who haven’t read How To Build A Girl, can you explain what it’s about?

Johanna Morrigan is basically a 15-year-old Rizzo from Grease, stuck on a council estate in Wolverhampton in the early 90s, who reinvents herself as the swashbuckling rock critic – complete with top hat. She becomes the toast of London by writing very bitchy reviews.

Why did you decide to move into writing fiction?

It means you can lie! The only problem with writing How To Be A Woman was telling an anecdote from my life, and then thinking ‘Oh, this story would be SO much funnier if I could exaggerate it 20%!’ You can’t do that in a memoir but you can in a novel.

You can also steal amusing anecdotes from your friends’ embarrassing teenage years, and put them in too. So I did.

Lots of your writing looks at political issues, but do you think that telling fictional stories is a more powerful way to address these issues?

I’m kind of stealing all my career moves off George Orwell and Charles Dickens. They started off as polemic journalists, and then turned the issues they were concerned with into huge stories, with amazing characters, which is a) more powerful and b) easier to eat popcorn whilst watching when they turn it into a movie. I’m all for the maximisation of popcorning life.

Although it's fiction, How To Build A Girl has similarities to your own past. Was it difficult knowing what to pick from your past and where to let fiction take over?

Hahah! Whenever it was funnier.

Is there a part of the book that you consider your favourite bit/scene?

The sex scene with the memorably named ‘big cock BUZZ 22

Jim’ still makes me hoot with laughter. I don’t think teenage girls have ever been given more specific advice about sex in a novel. That scene is like the Haynes Manual of ‘doing it’.

Did you do any research for the book?

Were you surprised by anything you found?

Yes – I read ALL my old diaries. I was surprised that I am still basically the same person I am now. Just this gleeful, optimistic idiot obsessed with music and books and boys and trying to do something ‘noble’. I was obsessed with being noble, and trying to save the world.

Did you have any characters (from literature or real life) in mind when you were creating Joanna?

Julie Burchill. Julie was my teenage idol – this hot young working class gunslinger who wowed London when she started at the NME at the age of 17. I did very much NOT wow the world when I started at Melody Maker at the age of 16. I thought her story was much more interesting than mine, so I nicked it.

Why did you decide to make your protagonist a teenager?

Oh, all my protagonists in ALL my projects will be teenagers. How To Build A Girl is the first in a trilogy – after this comes How To Be Famous and How To Save The World, and the book after that is set in the ninth century in Scotland. And THAT is about a fat gobby teenage girl. It’s a Woody Allen deal.

He’s always about the nerdy New York Jewish men.

I’m always about the fat gobby working class teenage girls. They’re my thing.

Why did you decide to do a live tour?

When I realised that I kept doing live events where someone would come and interview me on stage, and they would basically ask me one question and I would then monologue on, without pause, for the next two

hours. I was like, to me, “Have some balls – just go out there and do it on your own!"

The show’s called How To Build A Girl 2: Oh My God! I Thought Of Some More Things I Want To Say! – what are something of the new things you want to say?

It’s still essentially the same show I did last year, but there were a couple of cities I couldn’t get to last time, and Cardiff was one of them. So I’ve got a couple of new things – more advice. More ruminations on the secrets in women’s lives that we try to keep.

When did you decide to write a sitcom?

We’d spent 20 years trying to get this sitcom written.

First I kept getting pregnant. Then the BBC told us they already had a sitcom with a woman in that year, so they didn’t need another one. That made me so FURIOUS I wrote How To Be A Woman. Then when they sold a million copies, they were all like, ‘Oh we’d like the sitcom please’. But by then we’d buggered off.

Do you have any other projects on the horizons?

YES! How To Build A Girl is going to be a film with Film 4, then I’ll start writing How To Be Famous.

I have so many stories I’ve gathered over the years about celebrities…

How To Build A Girl 2: Oh My God! I Thought Of Some More Things I Want To Say!, St David’s Hall, Cardiff, Thurs 16 Apr. Tickets: £25. Info: 029 2087 8444 / www. stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk How To Build A Girl by Caitlin Moran, Ebury Press. Price: £14.99 hardback/£7.99 paperback. Info: www.eburypublishing.co.uk

DESIGNER BRANDS FOR UP TO 60% LESS. ALL YEAR ROUND.

McArthurGlenBridgend.com

BUZZ BUZZ23 23

upfront

pic: Ed Moore

MACHYNLLETH COMEDY FESTIVAL Forget Edinburgh, Machynlleth is what it’s all about – the comedian’s comedy festival. Rob Harries finds out about the event’s burgeoning reputation as one of the best and most intimate comedy events in the calendar.

BUZZ 24

pic: Ed Moore

The market town of Machynlleth, full of quirky and unique venues such as The Tabernacl and The Owain Glyndwr Centre, gives a close-knit and relaxed feel to its comedy festival. It’s not the place you would usually expect comedians of this level – the likes of Stewart Lee, Josh Widdicombe, Josie Long and Simon Munnery – lining up, but since 2010, Machynlleth has been blessed in this way.

Set beside wonderful countryside, this is a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of other, better known comedy festivals, and that is one of the reasons why it seems to be so popular with the performers themselves.

Welsh comedy star Rhod Gilbert, who performed at the festival in 2011 and who will be hosting his Radio Wales show live from Machynlleth, says that Machynlleth has a special appeal to many comics from all over the country.

“It’s one of the best festivals in the world, because there’s such a relaxed vibe to it. It’s relatively low-key and hasn’t grown too big, and this means that acts love performing there, audiences love it, and the town itself really embraces it. Within the space of six years, to start from nothing and create something that is totally unique is a real achievement.”

The man to thank for that achievement is organiser Henry Widdicombe, who says that unique atmosphere that Gilbert speaks of is down to varying factors.

“The event was built on a number of core principles that we've stayed true to, and it's fair to say that one of those was about seeing live comedy in intimate venues,.

We're known as being somewhere where acts can relax, experiment and have fun. I think it's ingrained in the event because everyone who comes, including acts, audience and crew, wants it to be that way. It's as much their festival as anyone else's.”

This relaxed attitude is reflected in the fact that there are no awards or competitions at the festival.

pic: Ed Moore

What do the comedians think?

BEC HILL Owain Glyndwr Centre, Sat 2 May, 2.30pm.

Tickets: £7 Have you been to the festival before?

I haven’t! But other comedians talk about it as if it’s this mythical event of wonderfulness that cannot be matched by any other festival. I look forward to experiencing it myself! I expect it will be like riding a unicorn.

What shows are you excited to see?

All of them. But particularly Sarah Bennetto.

She just makes me happy.

What can people expect from your show at Machynlleth?

Mountains of energy, joy and silliness. I’m just excited to be there.

LOLLY ADEFOPE

pic: Ed Moore

Owain Glyndwr Centre, Sat 2 May, 4pm. Tickets: £7 Have you been to the festival before?

Yes! I went last year and it was the nicest time.

It is basically all the good things about a comedy festival, and none of the bad – no flyering, no reviewers, you only do your show once and everyone is so pretty and nice and loves comedy!

Hoping to kiss lots of people this year :) What shows are you excited to see?

I'm very excited to see lots and lots – Natasia Demetriou & Ellie White, David Elms, Goose – and Stewart Lee if it wasn't sold out.

What sort of characters will people see at your show at Machynlleth?

As a taster – Wendy Parks, a woman who is a 'veteran' of the film industry, in that she's been a runner for 40 years. And Gemma, a terrible stand-up comedian. But if you want to find out more you'll have to come to the show!

Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha please come.

RACHEL PARRIS pic: Mony Trent

“I can totally understand why the industry and the media like awards, because they create interest,” says Widdicombe. “For us, we said from the very start that we'd never have awards or run new act competitions, because straight away you'd be creating an atmosphere where friends and colleagues are set against each other. From a personal perspective, I've never known an award or competition in comedy that doesn't create negative feeling, and we want to create the opposite at Machynlleth.”

Even if you want a break from all the laughing, the festival caters for an array of other interests with a fun-packed children’s programme, live music in the Beech Bar, and portrait drawing where some of the acts will model for your artistic delectation. There's always something to enjoy whether you’re an avid follower of comedy or just someone who wants to get away from it all in a tranquil atmosphere.

Machynlleth Comedy Festival, Powys, Fri 1-Sun 3 May. Tickets: individual events priced separately. Info: www. machcomedyfest.co.uk

Rag And Bone, Sat 2 May, 5.30pm.

Tickets: £7 Have you been to festival before?

I came for the first time last year, with my show The Commission. I'd heard from friends that it was a really beautiful, laid back festival and that proved totally true: what a stunning setting, that green-leafed village and half the comedy industry just hanging out watching each other's shows and drinking cider. It was a real treat and the audiences were really friendly.

What shows are you excited to see?

I'm especially excited to see [sketch comedy trio] Daphne's hour. I saw them do 10 mins last month and they blew my tiny socks off, they are hilarious! Also can't wait for Lou Sanders' new stuff, that'll be a treat.

How would you describe your comedy?

Earth-shattering.

BUZZ 25

upfront

CIRKOPOLIS Step right up, ladies and gentlemen! Children of all ages, behold – the circus is coming to town!

Remember the feeling you got as a kid, seeing the bold posters advertising that the circus was on its way? You can get that cotton candy/popcorn high again, tout suite, because Canada's Cirque Éloize are returning to Wales Millennium Centre with their latest spectacle Cirkopolis.

The Montreal-based troupe, originally featuring seven graduates of the city's National Circus School, jumped headfirst professionally into the colourful and crazy world of contortion, high-wire and more in 1993. Unlike traditional acts, there's no animals involved because they're part of the Cirque Nouveau or contemporary circus genre that began in the late 1960s in France, Australia and US. Cirque Éloize combine theatre and dance with skills such as acrobatics, juggling, trapeze and (sometimes) clowning and really caught on in the 80s.

Presenting almost 4,000 performances in over 440 cities and 40 countries, Cirque Éloize has been nominated for and won numerous awards including the Drama Desk Award in NYC for Unique Theatrical Experience for Cirkopolis last year.

Inspired by Fritz Lang's Metropolis, Cirkopolis portrays workers in a grim city, slaving away and eventually rebelling against monotony and championing individuality. All the while, they demonstrate various circus artistry as shots of colour punctuate the dark, with inventive music, lighting, costumes and video projections. It's not all doom and gloom, there are flashes of light and humour poking through the dreariness. President and artistic director Jeannot Painchaud (also the show's co-director along with choreographer Dave St. Pierre) says the program is about letting go and allowing yourself to be buoyed by hope.

Who hasn't wanted to run away to the circus at least once? Attending may be the closest some of us get to that dream. So juggle your schedule to see them, and tap into that inner child to experience some stage-produced magique.

RHONDA LEE REALI Cirque Éloize: Cirkopolis, Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay, Wed 8-Sat 11 Apr. Tickets: £18-£25. Info: 029 2063 6464 / www.wmc.org.uk

SEASICK STEVE From Robert Johnson to Bon Iver, the mythologising of the lone man and his guitar has a long tradition, but few stories are as remarkable as Seasick Steve’s. “Hobos are people who move around looking for work”, he once said; “tramps are people who move around and don’t work, and bums are people who don’t move and don’t work. I’ve been all three.”

With five solo albums topping the UK charts under his belt, and brand new album Sonic Soul Surfer set to do the same, Steven 'Seasick' Wold’s life revives the archetypal ragsto-riches tale with a steely grit and wizened world view that resounds in every wry line, and every note of his three-stringed ‘Trance Wonder’ guitar.

Leaving home at 13 to avoid the abuse of his stepfather, Wold lived rough for nearly two decades, travelling long distances, and often hopping freight trains, to look for work.

Throughout the journey, outside of adding ‘carnie’ and ‘cowboy’ to his CV, Wold kept his love for music alive, touring and performing with numerous blues musicians in the 60s, even befriending Joni Mitchell along the way.

Keeping himself firmly within musical circles, by the 80s Wold was working as a session musician and studio engineer. Though still busking to make a living, he produced numerous records, notably including Modest Mouse’s first album.

In 2001, having moved to Norway, Wold released his first album, Cheap, with backing band The Level Devils. Though well received, it wouldn’t be until a 2006 performance on Jools Holland’s Hootennany that Wold’s stardom really took off. Sporting his now instantly recognisable blue dungarees and battle-worn guitar, Seasick Steve became an overnight sensation, his then-recently released LP Dog House Music soon being certified gold. In his own words, “all of a sudden, I’m like the cat’s meow!”

His music is every bit as gritty as one might expect, and his growing number of fans have come to know that Seasick Steve ‘sound’: simple, blunt blues riffs, grumbling behind Wold’s crying and snarling of his sly turns of phrase. Sonic Soul Surfer is no major departure, further evolving the style Wold has made his own, adding another chapter to the mythology. TRYSTAN KENT Seasick Steve, St David’s Hall, Cardiff, Tue 28 Apr. Tickets: £23.50 (sold out – check box office for returns). Info: 029 2087 8444 / www.stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk BUZZ 26

pic: Chris Durst

Roots Unearthed Great Acts, Global Sounds & Relaxing Atmosphere STEFAN GROSSMAN Tuesday 21 April, 8pm Stefan Grossman remains one of the world’s foremost authorities on acoustic blues guitar.

EMILY SMITH Tuesday 12 May, 8pm Time has passed ridiculously fast since Emily was named BBC Radio Scotland’s Young Traditional Musician of the Year back in 2002.

CHRIS WOOD

THE

PLANETS

Conductor • Arweinydd Martyn Brabbins Friday • Gwener

17.04.15 – 7.30pm Brangwyn Hall, Swansea Neuadd Brangwyn, Abertawe Saturday • Sadwrn

18.04.15 – 7.30pm St David’s Hall, Cardiff Neuadd Dewi Sant, Caerdydd

Wednesday 24 June, 8pm With humble hymns and sweeping statements, Chris Wood lovingly takes the pulse of his homeland.

AMY WADGE & PETE RILEY Friday 26 June, 8pm Their critically acclaimed debut album Rivers Apart and successful UK tour led Amy and Pete to work on a follow up album Afterglow.

9BACH Monday 6 July, 8pm 9Bach are an atmospheric, evocative and emotional hybrid of the Welsh folk tradition and contemporary influences.

COMING SOON: MARY BLACK, MNOZIL BRASS, SEASICK STEVE, BELLE AND SEBASTIAN

0800 052 1812

bbc.co.uk/now

pic: Ballet Cymru and Sleepy Robot

upfront

DANCETASTIC From treasure to trapeze, evil stepmothers to prepubescent daughters: there are a lot of different dance productions on this month, so Sinnead Ali has a look at what’s to come.

W

inter has seen some spectacular dance pieces come to Wales and spring looks to be no different.

Fittingly for the season, there is a certain trend among the most promising pieces; that of awakening, realisation and coming-of-age.

Kicking April off with a bit of controversy, Gwyn Emberton, has used Caradoc Evans’ short story collection My People (Taliesin Arts Centre, Swansea, Fri 10 Apr. Tickets: £8-12) as inspiration for a dark and turbulent piece by the same name. The original collection, once considered as a ‘betrayal’ of the Welsh author's homeland, follows several characters through in a mythical town called Manteg. This dance homage to the collection promises its audiences to be taken on a haunting but beautiful journey.

A story closer to home still is a charming family production, shortlisted for Best Dance Piece at this year’s Wales Theatre Awards. Transition (Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff, Fri 10 + Sat 11 Apr. Tickets: £7) explores the shifting dynamic between a Father and his ballet-obsessed prepubescent daughter.

For audiences seven and up, this piece uses dance, conversation and film.

Only a few days later, Ballet Theatre UK brings the magical tale of Aladdin (Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl, Wed 15 Apr; Theatr Mwldan, Cardigan, Thurs 16 Apr; Wyeside Arts Centre, Builth Wells, Fri 17 Apr; Lyric Theatre, Carmarthen, Thurs 23 Apr. Tickets £15BUZZ 28

£16.50 / £12-£14 conc) to Wales. The Middle Eastern folk tale of treasure, trickery and true love gets retold in movement.

Another classic tale will be told as Ballet Cymru (winners of the Best Large Scale Dance Production at this year’s Theatre Critics Of Wales Awards) begin to tour their latest production, Cinderella (The Riverfront, Newport, Fri 8 + Sat 9 May; Blackwood Miners Institute, Gwent, Sat 16 May; Borough Theatre, Abergavenny, Fri 29 May; other venues in June. Tickets: £7-£14 / £6-£12 conc). Ballet Cymru plan to pull out all the stops with the show, having a brand new score created by Jack White (the awardwinning Wales-based composer, not the guy from The White Stripes) and adding in an element of the magic with the help from circus company Citrus Arts.

And finally, for those looking for something more sobering, Dam Van Huynh and Elaine Mitchener bring an intense, intimate piece of spoken word, dance and music to audiences in the round in Gesundheit (Aberystwyth Arts Centre, Thurs 30 Apr. Tickets £4.25-£8.50). Prepare to be surrounded by the three performers for a completely immersive show about relationships. www.taliesinartscentre.co.uk / www. chapter.org / www.ballettheatreuk. com / www.welshballet.co.uk / www. aberystwythartscentre.co.uk

MERMAID Sherman Cymru, Cardiff Tues 21-Sat 25 Apr If you’re expecting crabs with Caribbean accents, sea shell bras and singalong renditions of Under The Sea then you need to grab a Disney DVD. If the dark and erotic origins of Hans Christian Andersen’s The Little Mermaid appeal more to you then it’s time to check out the latest production from the award-winning theatre company Shared Experience.

Though it’s not strictly a dance piece, Mermaid is a production that weighs heavily on movement and magic. With writer and director Polly Teale holding the reins, this isn’t a proper for-adults adaptation of Andersen’s dark fairytale that explores love, lust and sexual awakening.

On her 16th birthday, a young mermaid decides to break through the water’s surface and see the world that exits above the waves. As she raises her head above water, the Mermaid spots a handsome prince and it's love at first sight. She decides to leave behind her childhood, and the watery world from which she came, for a chance to live happily ever after. But entering into the brand new world of the walking comes with its own complications and consequences. (HA) Tickets: £15-£25 / £7.50-£23 conc.

Info: 029 2064 6900 / www. shermancymru.co.uk

NATIONAL THEATRE WALES

MOTHER

COURAGE A N D

H E R

C H I L D R E N

BY / GAN BERTOLT BRECHT

reViseD BY aDolYgwYD gan

ED THOMAS

in translation BY Mewn CYFieithiaD gan

JOHN WILLETT

lYriCs reViseD BY geiriaU weDi’U haDolYgU gan

DAFYDD JAMES & ED THOMAS

DireCtor CYFarwYDDwr

JOHN E MCGRATH

#ntwMother

Experience the experience!

Saturday 9th May 10am-10pm Dydd Sadwrn 9 Mai 10am-10pm MERTHYR TYDFIL • MERTHYR TUDFUL

Profi’r Profiad!

Featuring • Gyda

Peggy Seeger 80th birthday UK tour with Neil & Calum MacColl Taith 80fed Pen-blwydd gyda Neil a Calum MacColl

Tin Shed Theatre – “An Inspector Calls” Clive Gregson • Tân Dance Railroad Bill • DnA Mal Pope

£15 wristbands • Access all events £5 wristbands • limited events access £0 free wristbands for a number of festival sessions Bandiau Arddwrn £15 • mynediad i bob digwyddiad Bandiau Arddwrn £5 • mynediad i ddigwyddiadau cyfyngedig Bandiau Arddwrn £0 am ddim ar gyfer nifer o sesiynau’r w ˆ yl

Plus Fiona Winter NIA • Silent Disco Make Theatre workshops • Performer Q&A sessions • Make the Singing Ringing Tree with Terry Chinn Ynghyd â Fiona Winter NIA • Disco Tawel • Gweithdai Anturiaethau mewn Gwneud Theatr • Sesiynau Cwestiwn ac Ateb gyda Pherfformwyr Creu Y Goeden Ganu gyda Terry Chinn

Many events FREE - book spaces/get BOOK IN ADVANCE • wristband | Llawer o ddigwyddiadau ARCHEBWCH YMLAEN LLAW AM DDIM - archebwch le/cael band REDHOUSE CYMRU 01685 384111 arddwrn

www.redhousecymru.com

Box office 07-22 May / Mai 2015 MeRTHyR LaBouR cLuB Swyddfa docynnau cLwB LLafuR MeRTHyR 029 2063 6464

nationaltheatrewales.org

profile ZERVAS AND PEPPER As they gear up to launch their new album, Heather Arnold talks to Cardiff’s evocative harmony-folk duo Zervas And Pepper.

Paul Zervas and Kathryn Pepper were once separate singer-songwriters, floating around Cardiff's music scene. Their musical worlds collided, however, in 2007 and they soon combined in folk-rock harmony.

“We met at Cardiff's (now sadly departed) Toucan Club on St Mary St,” Kath and Paul explain. “Paul was fronting the house band and running the open mic nights. We guested on each other's sets and encouraging one another as songwriters.”

Since their humble beginnings playing open mics in the clubs of Cardiff, Zervas And Pepper have had national radio support (even having their live session on Lauren Laverne’s BBC 6 Music show feature in the radio station's ‘Best Bits Of 2012’), gained glowing reviews and played gigs all over the world.

“A recent highlight for us was performing for several thousand people [supporting Deacon Blue] at Liverpool's Echo Arena,” the pair explain. “As each song ended we were engulfed with the applause from a dark sea of camera and phone flashes. It was the last night of the tour, so the lighting guys flipped the house floodlights on midway through and we finally got to see the full audience and it was quite a sight, a great way to end the tour.”

The band’s new album, Abstract Heart, was born out of their tour in India. “Being so far away in such a vastly different environment, our thoughts kept turning to home,” they explain, “and the people who we had sadly lost in our personal lives. We started writing and these themes kept reoccurring. Musically the last song on the album, Celestial Friend, is inspired by the music and the deep sense of spirituality and music we witnessed in India.

“The title Abstract Heart is taken from a song on the album, the song's theme being a struggle with ones individuality and difficult persona. Several of the songs on the record explore the complex emotions that make us human.

“It’s our most personal record to date. Our last album was escapist by nature and this record is a return to introspective songwriting. The album also has a slightly heavier, groovier vibe and some features we’ve done with excellent guest musicians who bring their musical stylings to the mix. As a band we've grown together musically and a result the album is richer and more confident for it."

But the band’s music hasn’t always been inspired by the homesickness felt on far flung tours.

“Our imaginations run wild at times, so our ideas BUZZ 30

“Being in India in such a vastly different environment, our thoughts kept turning to home” can be pretty diverse. Over the years we have created songs based on fictional characters, concepts and scenarios we've dreamt up. This latest record, however, is mostly personal and even slightly autobiographical in places.

“Music has always been an escape for us. Obsessing over music when we were teens had a profound impact on who we became as adults. I guess we learned the way of the world through the albums we loved, and we still love music that has something to say and has the ideals we share.”

Abstract Heart by Zervas And Pepper is out on Mon 20 Apr. Info: www. zervasandpepper.com Zervas And Pepper, The Globe, Cardiff, Fri 1 May. Tickets: £13. Info: www. globecardiffmusic.com

FAVOURITE ALBUM

Zervas And Pepper The Hissing Of Summer Lawns

by Joni Mitchell We all love this album, it's slick, classy and cinematic. The album has incredible musicianship and first rate songwriting and really shows an artist at the peak of their craft.

SFC_BuzzMag_93x275.indd 1

25/03/2015 09:39

film

by Keiron Self

CHILD 44 ***

THE AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON ****

Dir: Daniel Espinosa (15, 120 mins) Based on Tom Rob Smith’s excellent novel, Child 44 is a Russian-set serial killer thriller with a lot going for it. Tom Hardy stars as a Russian military policeman Demidov, which again means he can do an accent, hopefully better than his Welsh one in Locke. He is determined to investigate a series of child murders, a crime that does not exist in the Stalin-era Russia of 1952. This causes friction with boss Gary Oldman and he finds himself exiled and working on his own with only his wife Noomi Rapace for help as he uncovers some unsettling truths about the extent of the killings and its political ramifications. Rob Smith has written a trilogy with the same lead character so this feels like it's franchise baiting. A classy supporting cast – including Charles Dance, Vincent Cassel, Paddy Considine and Joel Kinnaman – add weight to this chilly thriller and Hardy is a meaty lead. Director Espinosa, who directed the flashily empty Safe House, is at the helm but the source material adapted by script ace Richard Price alludes to something deeper, offering a glimpse into Stalin-led Russia and a conflicted hero with something to prove. Let's hope it’s more Beluga caviar than borscht.

Opens Apr 17

Dir: Joss Whedon (12A, 150 mins) The superhero team are back after some spectacular solo adventures that have consolidated the Marvel brand with enough wit and invention to stop us getting comic book hero fatigue. Thankfully Joss Whedon is at the head of this sequel, his brand of invention and humor being a major plus factor within the smackdowns of the first film. This time Robert Downey Jnr’s Tony Stark, together with Mark Ruffalo’s Bruce Banner, are out to create a global peacekeeping force. This results in the creation of true A.I and, unfortunately, evil robot Ultron who wants to destroy humanity. So, it’s up to our supergroup to clean up after Stark’s mistakes, creating fractures within the team and setting up a large arc for two more Avengers movies. Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, Black Widow, Hawkeye and Nick Fury are all back and joining the roster of superheroes are Elisabeth Olsen as the supernaturally powered Scarlet Witch and Aaron Taylor Johnson as super speedy Quicksilver (another version of which has already been seen in the X-Men sequel thanks to a rights glitch). It’s a fanboy’s wet dream, handled by a man who can provide the spectacle, fulfil comic buffs' whims and deliver something unique whilst juggling all the characters. This will smash, like Hulk smash. Opens Apr 23

HOT TUB TIME MACHINE 2 **

JOHN WICK ***

LOST RIVER **

Dir: Steve Pink (15, 93 mins) The world did not need a sequel to Hot Tub Time Machine, a squalid study in misogyny and crassness, but it’s got one, unfortunately. John Cusack obviously didn’t get the memo to return for this outing (he was probably doing some direct-to-DVD thriller) but the gang, who were previously transported back to the 80s by a mystical jacuzzi, now get propelled into the future – 2025, to be exact. The hard-to-like Rob Corddry now has a successful tech business and finds himself shot in the nether regions, so obviously to find out who did it, him, his son (the disappointed Clark Duke) and the affable Craig Robinson go into the future via the hot tub.

Yup. This could be loveably zany, it’s not though, it’s just a further extension of The Hangover; male bonding, jokes about anal rape and, thankfully, Adam Scott as a Cusack metrosexual stand in. This tub has a definite dark scummy ring around it.

Opens Apr 10

Dir: Chad Stahelski/David Leitch (15, 101 mins) Keanu Reeves rejuvenates his action man status in this functional but enjoyable B movie. Co-Directed by Reeves’s former stunt double, this has the master of the Matrix as an assassin grieving for his wife and taking in a Beagle puppy. He has given up the life of working for underworld bosses but when a scummy upstart Iosef, played by Alfie Allen, wants his Ford Mustang car and Reeves doesn’t want to sell, the puppy gets offed - setting in motion a chain of carnage and revenge. Reeves finds out that his antagonist is the son of his former mobster boss, Michael Nyqvist, who puts a $2 million dollars price on his head, attracting other assassins like Willem Defoe and the athletic Adrienne Palicki. The action sequences are well staged and the script, despite it’s absurdity, is functionally lean. Reeves becoming yet another competent 50-year-old action man.

Dir: Ryan Gosling (18, 95 mins) Ryan Gosling’s directorial debut was savaged by critics at Cannes last year. An indulgent mess that wears its influences very transparently, Lost River wants to be David Lynch but is more like the boring bits in Only God Forgives. A stellar cast do their best with the fairytale structure, set in a ruined Detroit with single mum Christina Hendricks trying to keep her family together.

Teenage son Iain de Caestecker nicks scrap metal and incurs the wrath of local psycho and ex Dr Who Matt Smith; who has shaved his head and lift weights, even shouting ‘look at my muscles’ at one point. To try and escape poverty Hendricks is given a job by creepy bank manager Ben Mendelsohn at a sadistic nightclub, where Eva Mendes sings and gets beaten. Brilliantly and languidly shot, it looks amazing, but it’s also tedious, nasty and infuriating. Gosling has gone up this river without a paddle. Opens Apr 10

Opens Apr 10

ALSO RELEASED APRIL 2015: ALTMAN (15) Comprehensive documentary on the film maker who brought us the superb Nashville, Short Cuts and The Player. BLADE RUNNER THE FINAL CUT (15) The excellent dystopian sci-fi gets another re-release. The sequel is on its way. THE WATER DIVINER (15) Russell Crowe’s directorial debut sees the former Gladiator searching for his three sons after the horrific First World War battle of Gallipoli. FORCE MAJEURE (15) A fantastic claustrophobic drama as a family caught up in an avalanche end up fractured and lost in its aftermath. WOMAN IN GOLD (12A) Helen Mirren and Ryan Reynolds star in this factual drama, as an old Jewish woman tries to recover the art stolen from her family in the Second World War. GLASSLAND (15) Grim Dublin set drama dealing with human trafficking and

FAST AND FURIOUS 7 ***

GOOD KILL ****

Dir: James Wan (12A, 140 mins) The tragic death of Paul Walker casts a long shadow over this sequel to one of the most bafflingly lucrative movie franchises of the last few years. Shooting was left on hiatus as scriptwriters worked out how to move forward in this rather epic car chase/heist/revenge thriller. The Fast And Furious films rebooted themselves around film four with Vin Diesel returning to a stagnating car chase marathon and reinforcing the idea of family. The Rock added his own brand of adrenalin to the next two instalments' scripts and now Jason Statham ups the ante as the villain in this outing. He’s out to avenge his brother’s death – Luke Evans in number six – and it’s up to the gang to fight back. The scripts have never been fantastic, the spectacle always has. This time out the gang parachute from a plane in their cars, drive through skyscrapers and other physically impossible stunts. Diesel and the Rock grunt, Michelle Rodriguez, Tony Jaa and (new MMA addition to the team) Ronda Rousey fight, Tyrese Gibson and Ludacris do comic relief amidst a plot swamped with characters and high-octane incident. This is a mayhem-fuelled continuation of stunt and CGI wizardry that revs at high speed with little logic, but lots of adrenalin. Opens Apr 3

Dir: Andrew Niccol (15, 102 mins) A family man is forced to question the ethics of his job as a drone pilot in this tense drama. Ethan Hawke is excellent in this role, a former US fighter pilot wrestling with the psychological strain of killing by remote control. Stuck in an airless antiseptic cubicle, thousands of miles from the event itself, Hawke takes out Taliban fighters then drives home to wife January Jones, on whom his worries are taken out. Zoe Kravitz plays a young recruit who Hawke can allay some of his fears wtih, whilst Bruce Greenwood’s Commander barks war mongering epithets.

It’s a morally complex film that works. The toll that the job is taking on Hawke is evident, whether that be the ethics or simply missing the excitement of flying a plane itself on these bombing missions. There are telling points made about the changing face of warfare, kids recruited from shopping malls based on their joystick skills, the lack of emotional engagement with your enemy, not seeing them face to face. Writer/director Niccol has fashioned his best work since Gattaca, which also starred Hawke, sneaking in social critique amidst thriller elements with gripping, probing results.

Opens Apr 10

THE GOOD LIE ***

THE SALVATION ****

WHILE WE’RE YOUNG ****

Dir: Philippe Falardeau (12A, 110 mins) Reese Witherspoon stars in an 'uplifting' true life story of helping Sudanese refugees settle Stateside, like they do in the movies. Thankfully the African refugees take centre stage, rather than it being about how a white American saved them. Two brothers and a sister, displaced when soldiers massacre their village in the Sudan, join up with other fleeing children and travel across Kenya plagued by warfare, illness, dehydration and conscription into child soldiering. Five of them reach a camp where they spend 13 years before being offered a chance to go to the USA, unfortunately, this separates them. Witherspoon’s employment agent finds herself doing more than getting them jobs, however, setting out to reunite the siblings and friends. The African leads, kids and adults are superb.

Ger Duany, Emmanuel Jal, Kuoth Wiel and Arnold Oceng is especially good as child soldier Mamere. Directed sensitively by Falardeau, this is a worthy tale hopefully illumined by Witherspoon’s star wattage. Opens Apr 24

Dir: Kristian Levring (15, 92 mins) Ah, the Western. Once a prolific cinematic treat, guaranteed good box office, now a rarely seen genre, despite its mythic qualities. So it’s good to see a cowboy film set in the 1870s with such a classy cast and a Danish twist. Mads Mikkelsen stars as a peaceful settler, making a new home in America until his wife and child are murdered by a bandit. He subsequently takes his revenge, only to find himself hunted down by the bandit’s powerful villainous brother, played by Jeffrey Dean Morgan.

Mikkelsen has to stand up to this corrupt landowner but who will stand with him? Not many of the scared local townsfolk, that’s for sure, which places him in even more danger. Violent and relying on some old Western clichés, this is still a beautifully shot cowboy movie, with a fabulous supporting turn from a mute Eva Green as a possibly vengeful widow. Worth a saddle up.

Opens Apr 17

Dir: Noah Baumbach (15, 97 mins) Ben Stiller reteams with Greenberg director Baumbach for a slice of midlife crisis comedy – which is far more broad and less of a quirkfest than the excellent Frances Ha, and quite lovely for it. Stiller plays a documentary maker stuck in a rut in both his work and marriage with Naomi Watts. They strike up a friendship with 20s couple Adam Driver and Amanda Seyfried and their mojos are reignited. Driver is a massive fan of Stiller’s work, and is in turn trying to get his documentary about Facebook off the ground. Initially charmed by the youngsters, events take a darker turn as Stiller and Watts start to question what they really want. Mostly, however, this is a farcical comedy with plenty to say on age gaps, nostalgia, peer pressure and life in general. Charles Grodin appears as Stiller’s judgmental father, former Beastie Boy Adam Horovitz plays a stay-at-home dad and the central quartet have great chemistry. While We’re Young is Baumbach’s most accessible film yet. Opens Apr 3

addiction. Toni Collette and Will Poulter anchor the grit. PAUL BLART MALL COP 2 (12A) They did. They made this. It’s the end of days. STONEHEARST ASYLUM (15) Based on an Edgar Allen Poe story, this is a period set thriller set in a mental institution where all is not as it seems. Kate Beckinsale, Jim Sturgess, Ben Kingsley and Michael Caine add their weight to the schlock. KURT COBAIN: MONTAGE OF HECK (15) Authorised documentary of the Nirvana singer who became a poster boy for a generation and sold plenty of tshirt/posters, oh and did that album, before tragically killing himself. KIDNAPPING FREDDY HEINEKEN (15) The tale of the kidnapping of the head of the beer company back in the early 80s. Anthony Hopkins chews the scenery as Heineken whilst Jim Sturgess and Sam Worthington are amongst his kidnappers.

food/drink

Uncommon Ground

TRY SOMETHING NEW

WELSH CURRY HOUSE AWARDS

As the next stage of 2015’s Welsh Curry House Of The Year Award approaches, Heather Arnold looks at how the competition is hotting up.

Last year it was Ty Asha Balti in Llanrwst, North Wales. The year before that it was Bengal Spices in Llanymynech, and the year before that it was the The Purple Poppadom in Cardiff. Now it’s getting closer to the crowning of the 2015 Welsh Curry House Of The Year Award.

Over 350 restaurants will be competing for the title, but it won’t just be a small panel of judges that get to have their say as, until Sun 12 Apr, the public will be able to vote for their much-loved local. Last year the competition received over 13,500 votes from the diners on the frontline: in the curry house, taking in the atmosphere and carefully perusing the menu and selecting their dishes.

“The Welsh Curry House Of The Year award has gathered a huge following over the last eight years,” explains Niaz Taj, the Awards’ producer. “It started in 2007 to celebrate our love of curry and it is now firmly in the Welsh culinary calendar as an event to mark the nation's favourite dish.”

The top 30 restaurants will be shortlisted, on Thurs 16 Apr, and be set a very Welsh challenge: to create a luscious lamb dish.

“Using local produce and Welsh lamb in particular is highlighted during the competition,” says Niaz.

“Meat Promotion Wales has, once again, joined up

with Welsh Curry as a sponsor and the shortlisted restaurants will be asked to have a Welsh lamb dish on their menus for a four-week window.”

In those four weeks the judging panel (which includes Purple Poppadom's chef Anand George and TV Weathergirl Sian Lloyd) will tour round the restaurants and have a taste.

Just getting to the shortlist can be a challenge, but what is it that makes a curry house a winner?

“Over the years, what has stood out as a key element for winning the competition is serving good food. It may be stating the obvious but inevitably, the votes from the customers start the journey for a winning restaurant, and are the reasons why judges would visit these establishments during the process.”

This year things will be hotter than ever, as cameras are being thrown into the mix.

“We are delighted to have a BBC Factual Documentary team, led by producer Ceri Rowlands, following the Welsh Curry House and Welsh Curry Chef competitions this year. The show, Spice Wars, is scheduled to be aired a short time after the awards show, in June. It will give an insight of what the competitions means to the restaurants, owners and their customers.”

As we enter into the sunny spring people begin to get out more, as the fear of freezing to death slightly weakens. Many places are taking this opportunity to set up shop and Heather Arnold finds a whole host of new eateries in Cardiff.

The mornings might be easier to cope with now that the sun gets up before most people do, but you can still enjoy a good cup of coffee without needing it just for the caffeine hit.

Uncommon Ground Coffee Roastery is the latest edition to Cardiff’s Royal Arcade. This independent gourmet coffee bar was designed by Tim Rice, the mind behind the delicious décor of Ten Mill Lane, Svago and Matthew Pritchard’s tattoo parlour SWYD, so expect to stare at something different (the bare brick walls of the coffee shop are lit up by brass tea pot lights) as you sup on coffee from around the world.

Another new kid on the Cardiff coffee bloc is Artigiano on Working Street. This place takes on a duel identity as by day it is an espresso bar, caffeinating the general public and providing a place to stop while shopping, and by night it is a wine bar – offering punters live music, craft beer and (of course) wine.

Cardiff will also be blessed with the arrival of the award-winning Bar 44. The tapas restaurant already has two locations in Cowbridge and Penarth, and have popped up in locations across Wales thanks to their tasty tapas truck, but they will be hoping to open their doors on Westgate Street this summer.

Info: www.uncommon-ground.co.uk / www.artigiano.uk.com / www.bar44.co.uk

Info: www.welshcurry.co.uk

STREET FOOD CIRCUS If you managed to wander along to Street Food Cardiff at the Depot during late 2014, you probably wouldn’t have seen any Hula Hoop crisps among the tasty pop-up food offerings. You will likely see plenty of hula hoops in its latest incarnation, though, as Street Food Cardiff join forces with circus company NoFit State.

The two Cardiff culture cornerstones will host their first events in May, and they’ll be making the most of the changing seasons by making it an alfresco affair. They will be taking over the old stable yard on John St, which can be found hiding behind NoFit State’s former-church building.

As in previous pop ups there will a rotating menu each weekend as different street food vendors come and go but among those already announced are fried chicken aficionados Dirty Bird, award-winning BBQers Hangfire Smokehouse and seafood lovers Pembroke Beach Food.

Street Food Circus, every Fri/Sat/Sun in May, John Street, Cardiff. Admission: free. Info: www.streetfoodcardiff.com BUZZ 34

5

WONDERFUL WATERCRESS (Popeye Was Wrong)

OF THE BEST... Lamb Dishes We’re in Wales and it's Easter time – that means lamb is on the menu. If you don’t fancy roasting your meat on Easter Sunday, Jennifer Maguy is here to recommend some lovely alternative lamb recipes.

LAMB TAGINE Give your lamb a Moroccan feel by covering it with spices, matching it with some apricots and throwing it all in a tagine. Slow cooking the meat will keep it juicy and tender, while the combination of lamb, fruit and spices give the meal a full flavour and a sweet edge. There are plenty of recipes you can choose from, but there's also the opportunity to experiment by adding whatever you like. Love chickpeas? Hurl them in! Hate apricots? Why not try dates?

LAMB BOREK These Turkish meat rolls are a close cousin to the pasty, as the cubes of lamb and green peas are wrapped in crispy pastry and then baked. These tasty treats are thought to be a gift from the Ottoman Empire, but countries around the world have their own interpretations. Albanian byrek is often made with ground meat, Arab burek will occasionally be seasoned with pomegranate juice and Tunisian brik usually has a deep-fried filling. There’s a whole world of variations to choose from.

SAFED MAAS This ‘white lamb curry’ is a luxurious version of a korma, hailing from Rajasthan in India. While many kormas use coconut milk, the indulgent Safed Maas uses milk and cream instead. It won’t go tasting like your lunchtime yogurt, however, as the combination of cardamom, cinnamon and almonds gives it a nutty and slightly sweet flavour.

LAMB KEBAB Somehow this Middle Eastern street food has become the meal of choice for drunken revellers, but it can be so much more. Skewer some chucks of lamb, flavour them however you’d like and get them cooking over some coals. If the weather is being typically Welsh you can also cook them under the grill.

LAMB CAWL You don’t have to cross any oceans to get an interesting lamb recipe, as cawl has been warming the bellies of Welsh people since the 14th century. This traditional Welsh stew can contain a number of different vegetables but the recipe often brings together two of Wales’ best ingredients: lamb and leeks.

Eat it with some Caerphilly cheese covered bread and make it three for three!

words RUTH JOSEPH www.ruthjoseph.co.uk www.veggischmooze.blogspot.com For years spinach was believed to be the most nutritious green vegetable. Popeye grew muscles on cans of spinach persuading people to believe that it was super-healthy. But we now know that although spinach contains numerous vital nutrients, within those wonderful glossy leaves lies a chemical called oxalic acid blocking the iron’s natural absorption.

It’s still a wonderful vegetable, but if you are looking for the best nutrition per gram then fresh, peppery watercress makes the perfect ingredient. By weight, watercress has more vitamin C than an orange, more calcium than milk and merely 4oz will provide the full adult daily requirement of potassium.

Watercress was revered by the Greeks and Romans, who thought it cured a deranged mind.

The Irish wrote poetry about this wonderful plant, while in the 1800s a fashion developed to drink the leaves as tea with lemon and sugar.

I don’t think we could manage that but, yes, watercress is perfect in salad and soups and, unusually, mixed with a stir-fry that includes spinach. Or try these fabulous stuffed eggs – a recipe of a 1970s vintage, but so easy to create.

Totally retro and delicious – why don’t we eat these bad boys more often?

SIMPLE AND DEVILLED STUFFED EGGS SERVES 12 (as two halves per person) INGREDIENTS 12 free-range medium organic eggs / 4 tsp light mayonnaise / 2 tsp organic capers, finely chopped / 10g watercress, finely chopped, plus more for decoration / black pepper to taste PREPARATION

LAS IGUANAS CELEBRATES IN SWANSEA A little bit of Latin America will be coming to Swansea as the ever-popular chain restaurant, Las Iguanas, opens its doors on Mon 11 May. The restaurant will be serving up Mexican fajitas, burritos and enchiladas, Jamaican-inspired barbecue jerk chicken and Brazilian ximxim and burgers. To celebrate the launch of their Swansea, branch Las Iguanas will be offering two for one on all dishes between 12 and 5pm every day from Mon 11 to Thurs 14 May. They will also be throwing a festival-inspired weekend from Fri 15 to Sun 17 May, where the first 100 guests each day will get a free burrito.

Info: www.iguanas.co.uk

• Place the eggs in a pan and add cold water to cover. Bring to the boil and boil for seven minutes.

• Remove from the heat and run iced water over them immediately to prevent greyish green edges.

• Leave to cool and roll to crack shells. Peel off shells carefully.

• Halve the eggs, remove the yolks and add to the mayonnaise. Place the empty whites on a decorative plate.

• Chop the capers and watercress and add to the mayonnaise with the egg yolks. Mix well.

• Stuff the egg white cavities with the yolk/ watercress mixture and serve.

BUZZ 35

food/drink

ETHICAL EDIBLES For the love of Fibre

words RUTH JOSEPH www.ruthjoseph.co.uk www.veggischmooze.blogspot.com

A CHANGE OF CHOCOLATE The supermarkets might have had the Easter eggs out since before Christmas, but Kathryn Lewis finds out that local chocolate producers are offering something more exciting than plain and simple milk chocolate.

We’re all partial to an egg-shaped treat or two at this time of year, and we can all admit that Easter often leaves us binging on cheap supermarket milk chocolate. Luckily, the holidays don’t have to be spent in a state of overly sweetened guilt; with a wealth of independent chocolatiers right here in Wales there’s some intriguing, quality alternatives to be explored on our doorstep.

Gone are the days where variety stretched as far as white, milk and dark; chocolate’s been given a contemporary overhaul with the introduction of some exciting and exotic flavour combinations.

Coco Caravan in Cardiff have created some distinctive blends, including Indian chai and hazelnut-currant, which are tempting enough for the curiosity, let alone the tastebuds. Even better, they’re handmade, organic, raw and vegan, so you’ve got to be fulfilling some sort of New Year’s resolution when indulging in these chocolatey treats.

Chocolate’s not always the best friend to have when we’re trying to watch our waistline, but praise the lord (it’s Easter after all): Wickedly Welsh chocolatiers have rustled up a guilt-free truffle packed full of health benefits (hallelujah!).

These ‘one-a-day’ chocolates are rich in flavanols, naturally found in the cocoa plant, which are

BEER IN THE BEACONS BUZZ 36

claimed to reverse memory loss and even improve diabetic’s heart health. With orange, goji berry and stem ginger varieties, there’s no compensating on taste either.

The superfood trend continues (who’d have thought it), with the wonderfully smart chocolate geeks crafting a cocoa-based snack that we can tuck into at breakfast, lunch and dinner. Black Mountain Gold chocolatiers in Powys are just one of the brands to sell cocoa nibs, cocoa beans that have been roasted, removed from their husks and crushed. These nibs carry a subtle chocolate flavour and can be scattered over muesli, baked in a cake or even sprinkled over a goat’s cheese salad.

For those with a more adventurous palate, there’s Cupuaçu, a new chocolate alternative on the block. A cousin of the cocoa bean, the products of the cupuaçu flower are much sweeter and acidic in flavour, carrying an enjoyably sour kick. Not widely available in supermarkets yet, make an exploration to specialists’ shops for these treats.

Info: www.cococaravan.co.uk / www.wickedlywelsh.co.uk / www.blackmountaingold.org

Pub crawls don’t have to be a leisure activity enjoyed only by students dressed in golf attire, they can be relaxing jaunts across the Brecon Beacons.

The people at Good Day Out have planned exactly that. At their Beer In The Beacons event participants will get a take a tour around Brecon Brewing – the award-winning brewery who won Best Pint Of Bitter In Wales ate the W-Ales Festival last year – before hopping on a mini bus with chief brewer Burster Grant.

You’ll then be shuttled around three local Campaign For Real Ale (CAMRA) certified pubs for a drink, or three.

Beer In The Beacons, Brecon Beacons, Sat 18 Apr. Ticket: £45 (includes lunch). Info: www.gooddayout.co.uk

The use of fibre is often a hushed-whisper conversation, often regarded as a joke or a mere trifling problem to be suffered or, at worst, ignored.

But constipation can be agony and adding more fibre to the diet can often be the solution towards better health and a more comfortable situation. Researchers pic: Migle believe we should be eating at least 25g per day instead of the 12g most of us get. But where does it come from and why so important?

There are two types of fibre. Soluble fibre assists the movement of cholesterol within the blood stream. Delicious soluble plant sources are pulses such as chick peas, lentils, types of bean and oats – the heroes of any diet.

Insoluble fibre absorbs a high amount of water, increasing the weight of stools and helps the process of food through the digestive system. It’s helpful in weight-loss programmes as it creates a feeling of fullness within the body.

So how to increase your fibre?

Begin by swapping your bread for a truly wholegrain equivalent. Or think of pumpernickel or rye crackers for a change. For breakfast enjoy rougher oats with grated apple – high in pectin – or a banana. They need more cooking so soak overnight in a large Pyrex bowl with water or skimmed milk, and cover. Then in the morning cook in the microwave. But take care as the mixture will rise (this is why you need a large bowl).

For lunches, gradually add fibre-rich soups such as lentils, butterbeans and barley. Consider adding a non-mayo-heavy salad to lunch; exchange mashed potatoes or chips for a jacket potato and eat the skin. And if you’re out and eating a meal, eat the green salad accompaniment.

For snacks, take fruit – an apple takes time to eat and satisfies. Or try a handful of almonds, walnuts or pumpkin seeds. Then for supper, substitute well-cooked brown rice for standard white, or add chickpeas or lentils to casseroles with more vegetables and fresh fruit for dessert.

Remember, you’ll need extra fluid to assist the fibre in its function.

Problems of constipation should never be ignored. After speaking to your doctor, take it slowly but enjoy, for the cure can be simple and pleasant.

RECIPE HOKKEI SEARED TIGER PRAWNS HOKKEI ON THE BOX You would think that the pressures of performing on Masterchef would be enough to make a person steer clear of the cameras, but finalists Larkin Cen and Dale Williams has the cameras follow them on their journey to launch Hokkei. Heather Arnold talks to Larkin about the pressures of running your own top quality takeaway.

“The takeaway symbolises everything that is bad about Chinese food,” explains Larkin, when asked why he decided to open a takeaway instead of a restaurant. “Greasy, full of food colourings, MSG and terrible food hygiene ratings.

“I grew up with beautiful Chinese food and it is extremely frustrating and heartbreaking when people view Chinese food as dated and a generally unhealthy cuisine. The flavours are actually wonderful. To change people’s perception I felt the very sector that should be targeted is the takeaway sector. I also grew up in a Chinese takeaway so it was a trade I was familiar with.

Nothing would prepare me for the challenges that lay ahead though!”

Hokkei (which Larkin enthusiastically tells me means ‘curiosity’ in Chinese) launched late last year, but not without its difficulties.

“I could probably write you down a very comprehensive list of all the disasters if you gave me a few days. It was a very steep learning curve but the most important thing was that we had the passion to overcome all obstacles.”

pic: Owen Mathias Photography

During this time, BBC Wales followed the two chefs and documented the trials they went through to establish their takeaway. The show will broadcast this month on BBC One Wales, but what can viewers expect?

“I have seen episodes one to three. I really enjoyed watching it and seeing myself visibly ageing in front of my eyes, bearing in mind we have been filming for over a year!

“It’s a funny programme but shows us as real people coping with the demands of setting up a business in a tough sector and in a recession.

It follows the highs and lows and it also shows us developing.

“I hope it is a good programme for anyone who wants to change career and maybe even give some inspiration. Most of all it showcases the food. It’s all about the food!”

Larkin And Dale’s Takeaway Revolution, BBC One Wales, starts Fri 3 Apr at 7.30pm. Info: www.hokkei. co.uk / www.bbc.co.uk

If you haven’t been able to get your hands on some of the fantastic food served at Hokkei then don’t worry, the men behind the top class takeaway have donated one of their recipes so that you get a taste of Hokkei at home.

SERVES 2 INGREDIENTS 12 shell-on tiger prawns (ideally from sustainable sources) / 2 tbsp chilli oil / 1 tsp garlic puree / 1 tbsp olive oil / 2 limes / ½ a bunch of fresh coriander / 1 fresh red chilli / 2cm piece of ginger, peeled and diced / 1 tbsp light soy sauce (to season) / salt and pepper (to season) PREPARATION • Butterfly the prawns and remove the black vein.

• Zest and juice one lime and mix it together in a tray with the chilli oil and chilli garlic puree.

• Pick the coriander leaves and put to one side, then finely slice the stalks and add them to the tray.

• Deseed and finely slice the chilli and peel and finely grate the ginger, then scatter into tray • Give everything a really good mix up.

• Add the tiger prawns, then turn over a few times in the marinade to coat really well.

• Cover with cling film and place in the fridge for at least 2 hours, but preferably overnight.

• When you’re ready, preheat the barbecue. Cook the tiger prawns on a hot griddle or pan for 3 to 4 minutes, or until golden and cooked through, turning every 30 seconds and basting with the remaining marinade.

• Once cooked, remove to a serving board, squeeze over the juice from the remaining lime and the light soy sauce and season with the salt and pepper to taste.

• Sprinkle the reserved coriander leaves over the prawns. Serve with a noodle salad.

HANGFIRE SMOKEHOUSE AWARD NOMINATION The Southern barbeque-styled offerings of Hangfire Smokehouse are getting some much deserved recognition as they have been nominated as the Best Streetfood/Takeaway at the BBC Food And Farming Awards.The Wales-based pop-up barbeque was created by Samantha Evans and Shauna Guinn, who did extensive foodie research in the States before setting up shop back home. Now they are in the running for the best street food title after an ‘unprecedented’ amount of public votes, beating 4,000 other entries.The winner of each of the BBC Food And Farming Awards categories (which includes Best Food Market, Best Drinks Producer and Best Food Producer) will be announced on Thurs 30 April, but if you don’t want to take their word for it you can try out the girl’s Bayou BBQ from 6pm the same day at Brewdog in Cardiff.

Info: www.hangfiresmokehouse.com

BUZZ 37

food/drink

PITCH

CHAIHOLICS

Wellfield Road, Cardiff. 029 2049 5975 / www.chaiholics.com Food **** Atmosphere **** Wellfield Road is becoming a lively and tasty place to be in the evenings, and it started with the opening of Chaiholics, the UK’s first chai house. Selling itself on its tea, and tea-infused cocktails, on my visit here I started with a Chaijito, a tea-inspired version of a mojito – very refreshing, the mint pairing well with the Assam tea. I later sampled the perfectly sweet peach-flavoured Chaiholics Rum Special. We tried three starters: the succulent, spicy and bright red Kerala fried chicken, the crispy and flavoursome okra fries and our favourite, lemon pepper prawns which burst with flavour.

Spurred on by the prawn starter, my partner selected the delicious, slightly buttery Goan prawn curry –the combination worked well, as the sauce was flavoursome but still allowed the taste of the prawns to come through. I was steered towards an aromatic lamb shank which was stunning. I rarely go for dairy-heavy curries, but this dish managed to be brilliantly creamy while remaining light. The lamb fell off the bone into the green sauce which brought spices and pistachios together nicely. Hidden underneath the sauce was an onion bhaji-esque bed, like finding tasty treasure. These dishes were paired with a number of sides such as rice and roti, but the lightly spiced apricot Chaislaw was a great addition, and a great accompaniment to both dishes.

Pretty full by this point we opted to share the mango cheesecake. This is more like a fruity yogurt with a cardamom and toasted rice (it works, trust me) topping but it was a sweet, creamy and interesting finish to a great meal. Having tried the food, I can now confidently say that this isn’t just a cafe trying to boost sales in the evening, but a well-thought-out combination that works because of the people involved. The staff are friendly, the owner enthusiastic and the chef extremely passionate and talented (he later told us his credentials – he’s cooked for the Queen!). My only word of warning: book in advance. HEATHER ARNOLD

Mill Lane, Cardiff. 029 2022 8882 / www.pitchcardiff.com Food **** Atmosphere ** Pitch, which opened in late February sporting a name that implicitly hollers “we want your matchday money,” has been lauded as Cardiff’s first restaurant whose menu emphasises both Welsh produce and Welsh culture. This strikes me as questionable – The Armless Dragon, in Cathays, didn’t enjoy a spotless reputation, but surely answered to that description. It’s gone now, though, so Pitch can – at a push – claim singular status, even if its menu isn’t exactly striving for innovation.

Reviewer and guest take a window seat downstairs, the polo-shirted lager bustle of Mill Lane happily being absent on a Thursday, and order a glass of decent, berrytinged cabernet sauvignon each. Glancing round in an effort to absorb the decor, well, there’s almost nothing to say about it. Some exposed wood and a sky blue and white colour scheme doesn’t exactly ignite the palate; as it goes, though, the food is pretty good. A salad of roast butternut squash and Pant-Ysgawen, an organic goats’ cheese, is made more bucolic by fresh blackberries; smoked mackerel pate comes with toast and deep-fried capers, which would be well worth cultivating a piggish, decadent addiction to (think Elton John’s cockle binges).

For mains, you can get lamb in shank or cawl form, Welsh rarebit, or various steaks and burgers. My guest picks cod – on a crushed potato bed and served with beans, peas and fresh mint, the latter cutting through coolly. My pork belly has a marmalade glaze, and is tough round certain edges but mostly pliant; two bits of crackling snap decisively and pork liquor gives the potatoes added creamy depth.

Similarly, the best part of my dessert – elderflower fruits with champagne foam – is found at the bottom of the glass, where the (frozen, out of season) berries have soaked in the bubbly. A chocolate brownie is pleasant but perfunctory. Pitch’s location, friendly and unfussy demeanour and appeals to the collective public’s badge-kissing nature should serve it well, and as long as you’re not expecting fireworks you’ll likely not be disappointed. A meal for two plus three large glasses of red comes to just over £60. NOEL GARDNER BUZZ 38

THE KINGS ARMS VILLAGE PUB & KITCHEN

Church Road, Pentrych, Cardiff 029 2089 0202 / www.kingsarmspentyrch.co.uk Food **** Atmosphere **** After several reincarnations, The Kings Arms is now under the ownership of Andy Aston, former head chef at Le Gallois. His no-nonsense menu has proved a massive hit with locals, and is attracting a loyal base from further afield.

The menu is divided up into old favourites and seasonal mains. To my pleasant surprise, I found there were at least three or four items on each course I could have easily been swayed by. Take the starters: Serrano reserve, bittersweet figs, Innes goat curd, honey with pickled walnuts, Welsh mussels in cider and leek and bacon cream with fresh bread, to name only a couple. On my insistence we chose from the sharing board menu – the Fishermans’ selection of curried cod cakes, smoked mackerel pate, crispy whitebait, cockles and bacon, fish goujons, marie rose and tartare sauces and breads. It amounted to a feast, and an entirely homemade one.

For mains, I went for the old favourite, steak (sirloin) and chips with roast tomato and mushrooms. He had Blytheburg pork tenderloin with pressed potato, flaked hock, glazed carrots, sage and black pudding. We shared cabbage, leeks and peas.

Other delights on offer included pan-fried sea bream, sobrassada, cured ham, confit peppers with chorizo bonbons, and the infamous Kings fish and chips. The sweet selection was a delight. We opted for the fairground, which was more of a display than a dessert: mini toffee apples, candyfloss, marshmallow and ice cream in a peanut flake, the presentation of which would have put Heston Blumenthal to shame. It tasted divine, childhood in a spoonful.

The Kings Arms have without doubt found their mojo and are reaping the rewards.

Reasonably-priced food, a good wine selection and an interesting menu, with a quaint deli attached – what more do you want? ANTONIA LEVAY

Iguanas.co.uk

Hola swansea!

opening in May

Castle quarter 1-4 castle square SA1 1DN swansea@iguanas.co.uk

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BUZZ 39

BARRIE J DAVIES: I JUST STEPPED THROUGH A RAINBOW...

art

SHO Gallery, Cardiff Fri 17-Thurs 23 Apr Plenty of us might expect to find a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow, but neon paint-loving artist Barrie J Davies’ imagination is much more elaborate. On the other side of Davies’ rainbow are Daleks, the Michelin man, topless ladies, Marge Simpson and ET... among other things.

His brightly coloured and chaotic artwork is far-fetched, silly and captivating. The psychedelic paintings mishmash various images from pop culture (ET pops up a few times, as does the Batman symbol; Alf and Tintin make an appearance and Snow White is in there somewhere as well) and create a colourful and chaotic assault on the senses.

Many of Davies’ creations look like pages from a comic book meshed together with a sweet wrapper from the 90s and covered in bright paint. They are fun, surreal ‘pop gone wrong’ paintings that share a similar feel to the eye-wateringly bright creations of local artist Swci Delic (but with less geometric patterns and more mess) and the off-key characters created in the work of comedian/painter Noel Fielding.

While Davies' work can be silly, colourful and absurd, this doesn’t mean it’s shallow. Davies has been an artist for over 10 years and had 14 solo exhibitions across the world. His work tackles themes of the human condition: love death, sex, gender, religion, money, glamour and success.

This isn’t just pictures of cats pulling cross-eyed faces – although he does have a few of those.

Admission: free. Info: www.thesho.co.uk / www.barriejdavies.net HEATHER ARNOLD

pic: Craig Wood

OPENING EXHIBITION: COMMUNICATION AND INNOVATION OF BOUNDARY ART

Boundary Art, Cardiff Bay Throughout April The full title of Boundary Art's opening exhibition is Communication And Innovation: The Fusion Of Art And Culture Between East And West. As the name suggests, this showcase of work explores art as expression, it looks at nationalities without borders; it allows people to experience the emotion and thoughts of artists around the world.

The exhibitors are from various cultural and artistic backgrounds. Emma Cownie paints mainly in oil in a refractionist style, breaking down light into block colours; Lorna Wilson’s landscapes display a sense of place and events, Jan Plethean’s work reflects a sense of the sublime. Shanghaiborn Zhang Hong's abstract work stems from his love of graphology. The oil paintings of Fang Guanghong, based in Brazil, combine two different cultures in a new style Latin/traditional mix.

These, amongst others, allow the viewer to interpret each canvas on its own merit. Boundary Gallery prides itself on promising no limited genres or forms, every piece of artwork expresses emotion.

The emphasis is a trans-boundary of arts, cultures and thoughts. Set in a tranquil space with a serene ambience created for a non interrupted viewing arena with the added benefit of a soothing tea garden serving authentic Chinese teas. Where better to relax and enjoy art, a haven to explore.

Admission: free. Info: www.boundaryart. com (AL) BUZZ 40

THE BP PORTRAIT AWARD 2014

Aberystwyth Arts Centre Wed 22 Apr-Sat 30 May If you struggle with daily decisions such as what to have for dinner, what to wear today or whether or not you should eat the last few biscuits in the tin, then spare a thought for the judges of the BP Portrait Award who faced the immense task of selecting 55 portraits from over 2,300 entries. Having begun its journey at the National Portrait Gallery in London, the exhibition arrives at Aberystwyth Arts Centre this month for the final leg of the tour.

From Brooklyn to Bath, the exhibition offers distinctive international influences.

Allowing an insight into the lives of the artists’ subjects, the painted portraits feature many personal relations and acquaintances – a refreshing change from the famous faces that we see regularly in modern society.

As one of the most prestigious prizes in the arts calendar, the 25th anniversary of the competition attracted a record breaking number of entries, all vying for the £30,000 prize. The recipient of the accolade was German artist Thomas Ganter, whose portrait of a homeless man entitled Man With A Plaid Blanket was the judges’ choice.

Visitors will also be able to view the work of the BP Young Artist 2014 and the winners of the BP Travel Award 2013 – who knows, you may be looking at future famous artist's works.

Admission: free. Info: 01970 623232 / www.aberystwythartscentre.co.uk (RHO)

PRAXIS

Elysium Gallery, Swansea Fri 10 Apr-Sat 2 May Coming to the Elysium Gallery this month is Praxis, an intriguing new exhibition by Swansea-based artist Michelle Dawson that combines art and nature to create a reflective and intimate study of the way that each of us privately interacts with the natural landscape.

Taken literally, Praxis means ‘‘the process by which a theory, lesson or skill is enacted, embodied or realised,’’ and the works on display promise to be the physical embodiment of Dawson’s personal concepts of ritual objects and sacred places.

Made with items such as feathers, shells and branches sourced from wetlands, woodlands and beaches, Dawson has created a series of sculptures of varying sizes often visually referencing the human body. Using techniques such as binding and stitching, coating with wax and paint, hanging with yarns and weaving with willow and branches, many of these works are presented as hangings, enclosures and chambers which engulf the viewer and invite intimacy and contemplation.

Alongside larger pieces, there will feature wax reliefs, paintings and prints to accompany the exhibition. This is a great chance to see a fascinating exhibition by a bright Swansea talent.

Admission: free. Info: 07980 925449 / www.elysiumgallery.com (SS)

RIGHT NOW!

Mission Gallery, Swansea Sat 25 Apr-Sun 7 June What’s your favourite line from the Sex Pistols back catalogue? Is it “And I wanna be an anarchist / Get pissed!”?

Maybe it’s “God save the queen/She ain't no human being” or perhaps “I didn't ask for sunshine and I got World War 3” – a quote from one of their slightly less iconic singles?

Well this new exhibition, curated by Paul Emmanuel (Welsh Artist of the Year 2011, best known for painting sheep’s fleeces) and Craig Wood (who curated last year’s propaganda filled Public Information exhibition at Oriel Myrddin), has taken its inspiration from the opening words of Anarchy In The UK: “Right! Now!” Back in 1988 a group of Goldsmiths graduated showcased their work in an exhibition titled Current at the Mission Gallery. Now, 27 years later, the artists are returning. They won’t simply be recreating the exhibition, however, but looking at how their various lives expanded, changed and moved from that point. They hope the project will not only demonstrate how the lives, work and careers of these artists has changed in the last few decades, but also examine the historical and creative changes that have taken places in the contemporary art world.

Artists involved include Steve Adamson (whose work has been featured in an exhibition by Damien Hirst), documentary artist Bridget Smith and former Turner Prize nominee Ian Davenport.

Admission: free. Info: 01792 652016 / www.missiongallery.co.uk (HA)

Fragile Buzz.qxp_Layout 1 24/03/2015 09:38 Page 1

Amgueddfa Genedlaethol Caerdydd National Museum Cardiff

Myned am dd iad im Free e ntry

BREGUS? FRAGILE ?

Arddangosfa o Gerameg Gyfoes

An Exhibition of Contemporary Ceramics

18.04.2015 - 04.10.2015

ART ACROSS THE CITY SWANSEA, UK

Parc Cathays, Caerdydd CF10 3NP amgueddfacymru.ac.uk #BregusCaerdydd

a LOCWS International Production

Cathays Park, Cardiff CF10 3NP museumwales.ac.uk #FragileCardiff

21 March - 1 June

www.artacrossthecity.com Public Art Commissions by Emily Speed, Michael Stumpf, David Cushway, Colin Priest, Graham Dolphin, DJ Roberts, Jeremy Deller, Pete Fowler, Sinta Tantra, Bedwyr Williams, Niamh McCann and more info@artacrossthecity.com | @Locws_Art on Twitter Locws Art on Facebook | www.artacrossthecity.com A LOCWS International Production With Support From:

THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME

stage

Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay Tues 14-Sat 18 Apr Mark Haddon’s multi-award winning novel, The Curious Incident Of The Dog In The Night-Time, won over the public and critics alike back in 2003, so it shouldn’t come as a surprise than when the book was adapted for the stage by the National Theatre, 10 years later, it was the recipient of seven Olivier Awards.

The plot mirrors the classic whodunit in a sense: a dog is found murdered with a pitchfork through its stomach in the front garden of a nondescript suburban house.

The main suspect is 15-year-old neighbour Christopher, a fiercely gifted mathematician who struggles to cope with the social and emotional demands of day-to-day life. He distrusts strangers, refuses to be touched and has never been beyond the end of his road unaccompanied.

The story is told from the perspective of Christopher as he goes about trying to solve the murder and prove his innocence. Along the way we are presented with an array of deeply troubled characters, which are paraded in front of our narrator.

The book forces the reader to rely on, and often read between the lines of, Christopher’s misguided and erratic narration – so it will be very interesting to see how this unique narrative will be brought to life on stage. By all accounts the adaption is an ambitiously designed, highly visual piece with stunning physical direction from Frantic Assembly’s Scott Graham, which has taken Haddon’s work and turned it into a thrilling spectacle that's not to be missed when it comes to Cardiff this month as part of its first national tour.

Tickets: £18-£47. Info: 029 2063 6464 / www.wmc.org.uk STEPHEN SPRINGATE

pic: Richard Davenport

BENEFIT

Aberystwyth Arts Centre, Wed 15 Apr People on benefits: they’re all scroungers.

Can’t be arsed to do anything with their lives other than slob disgustingly on the sofa and gorge on Jeremy Kyle. They live a work-free life of relaxation, all covered by the taxpayer, and only get off their arses when they’re forced to fake limp their way to a disability assessment.

Or at least that’s what we’re often told.

The reality is that people end up asking the government for help for a variety of reasons. There are people with very different backgrounds, with different need who need help in different ways. A woman left speechless by her disability, a refugee who fled a coup half a century ago and a sex addict whose affliction is killing his relationship. The stories of these three characters interweave and explores how each of them, as individuals struggle with their frustrations, passions and dependency on the state.

Just like a true democracy should, Benefit will be welcoming people to debate and participate. The fate of these characters will be put in the hands of audience members – who will be given the opportunity to change the outcome of the show. The theatre company behind it, Cardboard Citizens, are making a statement about political engagement with issues such as welfare. As the majority of the company’s actors have some experience of homelessness, they are in a strong position to do so.

Tickets: £10/£8. Info: 01970 623232 / www.aberystwythartscentre.co.uk (HA) BUZZ 42

CALL MR ROBESON

Aberystwyth Arts Centre, Wed 22 Apr; The Metropole, Abertillery, Thurs 23 Apr; The Riverfront, Newport, Fri 24 + Sat 25 Apr Most people who have achieved global status through acting or singing (or both in the case of Paul Robeson) are happy to put their feet up and accept their fame and fortune, but not Robeson.

After achieving worldwide recognition through appearing in Show Boat and Sanders Of The River, Robeson put his career on hold to pursue a life of political activism. He went on to show his support for the fight against fascism in 1930s and 40s Europe and also campaigned in south Wales for the sake of the mining community. He later turned his focus closer to home, as he began to criticise the US government and voice his admiration of communism. As a result, the CIA blacklisted him and renounced his US passport.

Whilst the production, Call Mr Robeson, is a tribute to the remarkable life of Robeson, it is also the ultimate tribute to his affiliation with Welsh social policy, as it hits several theatres in the country.

Adding to the already impressive legacy of Robeson is the recent announcement

by Oscar-winning director of 12 Years A Slave, Steve McQueen, that his latest film is also set to retell the story of this “incredible human being”.

Tickets: £5-£12.50. Info: www. callmrrobeson.com (DM)

GLADIATOR

Coliseum Theatre, Aberdare, Thurs 23 + Fri 24 Apr; The Welfare, Ystradgynlais, Sat 25; Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff, Wed 29 + Thurs 30; further South Wales venues in May Cycling’s heroes are almost always divisive figures and usually tragic too.

From Fellini to Armstrong through to 2012 wünderkind Higgins, it is a sport that demands Homeric levels of personal suffering from its would-be champions.

Perhaps it’s unsurprising that so much drama surrounds a sport in which success is often dependent upon a ready supply of clean urine, but if you are in need of more than look no further.

Gladiator is the story of a bike, but not just any bike. One of the first true racing bikes, the real-life Gladiator was ridden by somewhat forgotten Welsh cycling hero Arthur Linton, an Aberdare native.

Not content with the title of world champion in 1896 Linton, thanks to his unscrupulous manager, was also embroiled in one of the sport's first major doping controversies (which was also allegedly the cause of his early death).

In the play’s universe the bike, long forgotten, is discovered by Jimmy. What follows is a surreal journey that includes a road race from Bordeaux to Paris from the confines of Jimmy’s garage. Written

by Welsh author Laurence Allen, this is set to be a funny and uplifting drama about a mostly forgotten relic of Welsh sporting history.

Tickets: £8-£12. Info: www.facebook.com/ chainworksproductions (AC)

LAST OF THE RED HOT LOVERS

Sherman Cymru, Cardiff Fri 17 + Sat 18 Apr On In 5 Productions is a new theatre company in Cardiff that wants to stage new works and plays that the public hasn't necessarily heard of or seen, so it's doing Last Of The Red Hot Lovers this month. Producer Philippa Roberts wants to get away from the likes of Shakespeare and Shaw, and Neil Simon may follow alphabetically but is pretty far away – a whole continent away.

It’s 1969 and Barney Cashman is a 45-year-old restaurant owner who is bored with his 22-year marriage and wants to see what this free love stuff is all about. He gets more than he bargained for (but not in the way he wants) when he has encounters with three of Noo Yawk's finest women.

There is the elegant Elain (who turns out to be foul mouth and neurotic), the young actress Bobbi (who turns out to be a bit too kooky) and housewife Jeanette (who's pretty gloomy, and married to Barney’s best bud).

If the saucy plot isn’t enough to capture you then the cause might be, as the company lends a hand to local charities and each of their productions supports a different cause. This time £1 for each ticket sold is going to Cancer Research Wales. Come out for a good cause, and to find out if Cashman scores with all – or any – of his choices.

Tickets: £10-£18. Info: 029 2064 6900 / www.shermancymru.co.uk (RLR)

CHAINWORKS PRODUCTIONS AND RCT THEATRES PRESENT CHAINWORKS PRODUCTIONS A THEATRAU RHCT YN CYFLWYNO

Shared Experience and Nottingham Playhouse Theatre Company presents

It’s Not About the Bike, It’s the Dream IT’S NOT ABOUT THE BIKE – IT’S ABOUT THE DREAM By|Gan Laurence Allan

This brand new production is an inspiring, funny and uplifting drama.

Dyma gynhyrchiad newydd o ddrama ysbrydoledig a doniol.

The Coliseum Theatre Aberdare | Y Colisëwm Aberdâr 23/04/2015 – 24/04/2015 7.30pm & 1.00pm matinee on 24/04/2015 • £10.00/£8.00 08000 147 111 • rct-arts.co.uk 14+

A bold reimagining of Hans Christian Andersen’s tale of love, loss and desire

by Polly Teale

Tue 21 – Sat 25 April Box Office: 029 2064 6900 www.shermancymru.co.uk

Boundary Art, a combined gallery and tea garden, intends to create a space that provides customers the opportunity to contemplate of art works whilst enjoying tea in a fresh, unique and friendly atmosphere.

We tend to establish a sort of culture fusion of western and eastern arts.

For us, there is no limited genres or forms, we appreciate every piece of artwork that expresses impressive aesthetics and emotion.

The opening exhibition will begin from 21st March, which is called Communication and Innovation: The Fusion of Art and Culture Between East and West.

3 Sovereign Quay, Havannah Street, Cardiff Bay, Cardiff.CF10 5SF. E-mail: info@boundaryart.com Phone: +44 (0) 2920 489 869

www.boundaryart.com

BUZZ 43

clubs

DEADBEAT UK

Paranoize @ Buffalo, Cardiff Thurs 9 Apr New kids on the block Paranoize have secured a decent line-up for this, which also includes Chip Butty Records’ Dr Cryptic, and Dubzta from Project Allout Recordings. The latter’s sense of humour was flown high and clear on his White Dee EP last year, an ode to the most notorious cast member of Benefits Street.

Headlining, however, is Deadbeat UK, the Sheffield bass music pusher who now lives in Brighton, where he can be found as a resident at In The Face.

“I have an EP forthcoming on Tumble Audio called Pagans EP,” he explains.

“Also a remix for Off Me Nut Records, and another for Saucy Records and a tune on San City High (Kissy Sellout's label). Then there’s another on Chip Butty (Raving Crew) and another EP coming on Project All Out.” Busy times for the man making his Welsh debut, for which he’ll be bringing his forward-thinking approach to his sets. “I don’t usually play any kind of classics in my sets,” says Deadbeat. “It’s usually all brand new music. Although tunes like DJ Narrows’ Saved Soul and Down 4 U by DnD have been known to creep into my set if the moment is right. I’m more about 100% bangers from start till finish, and an unprecedented level of vibes and energy.”

Tickets: £5. Info: 029 2031 0312 (RH)

BUZZ 44

TROYFEST

Baskerville Hall, Hay On Wye Fri 1-Sun 3 May One need only glance at a few of the images from last year’s Troyfest to see that passive participation will only get you so far. Everyone attending makes a huge effort to meet the organisers’ request that fancy dress is not necessarily optional.

“Since the beginning fancy dress has been really important,” explains co-promoter Troy. “We feel it is very hard to be nothing but friendly when you are dressed as a flux capacitor, lion or whatever. We have a competition each year for the best costume and have a big group photo with as many people as we can fit in. Our theme this year is ‘in the garden’.”

Set in the near-perfect surroundings of the Baskerville Hall – which is also the home of the equally iconic and always sold-out Freerotation festival – punters can book rooms or camp. That’s if they intend sleeping between sets from Gilles Peterson, Mr. Scruff, Molotov Jukebox and tons more.

“How we choose our acts comes from going to gigs ourselves plus recommendations from good friends who run nights and book artists themselves,” says Troy. “We also get applications through our website which we use as well. The bottom line is they can be any genre but have to be good live. We are also looking forward to comedy hosted by Jayde Adams and original writing and performances from Dirty Protest theatre. We even have burlesque life drawing with Peaches And Cream and a 3D video mapping AV show onto Baskerville Hall.”

The sun has shone each year since the festival began in 2011, and hopefully that will be the case again for 2015.

“We’ve been lucky with the weather but having all the stages under cover means no ponchos needed,” explains Troy. “We are almost weatherproof and have flushing loos! Troyfest began when a few of us thought a festival theme would be a good idea for a 40th birthday party. We also have some very talented and generous friends who came and played and partied in 2011, and it kind of snowballed with bands we didn’t know asking us to play.”

Tickets: £89.50. Info: tickets@troyfest.co.uk RYAN HEEGER

ILAN BLUESTONE

Delusion @ Sin City, Swansea Sun 3 May Ben and Jonny at Delusion are taking their night into its sixth year, having recently celebrated turning five with headliner John O’Callaghan. For their next event they welcome Anjunabeats’ Ilan Bluestone, who is man of the moment across the world of trance.

“Ilan Bluestone is on fire at the moment,” explains Ben. “His sound is absolutely rocking. He’s touring the world and is a regular DJ alongside Above & Beyond. It’s a booking we have been looking to secure for around the past six months, so we were thrilled to get that contract finally signed.”

The Delusion brand goes beyond standard club nights, with coach trips arranged for national clubland and a tight knit community of likeminded music fans.

“In all honesty guys, you simply have to come and just experience it,” says Ben. “It’s not just about the promoters trying to sell it, or the music, or DJs that are playing etc. It’s the whole experience, from the level production we put on, to the atmosphere created at our shows, even down to the friendliness of our clientele, and obviously the most up for it clubbers in Wales.”

Also on the main room line-up is other Anjunabeats regular Genix and a rocksolid roster of residents including Ben Joseph, Callan Christie and Nic Lawson.

Room two is hosted by Detached.

Tickets: £12. Info: info@delusionevents. co.uk (RH)

SONIQUE

Time Flies @ Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff Sun 3 May Of all the names on the classic DJ circuit, Sonique’s tends to endure around our way thanks to a solid timeline of dates stretching back to the mid-90s. Her sets at Time Flies and the long-gone Apocalypse and Hippo Club were always warmly received by clubbers, thanks in part to her approachable persona and live vocals.

“I have tons of awesome memories of the Hippo Club,” she explains. “They were the first venue back in the day to block book me six months ahead. I have always enjoyed the Time Flies crowd too – Cardiff is a great city so I aim to deliver a fun-filled, energised night with some cool classics mixed up with the next new tunes.”

Also on the line-up is fellow Hippo and Time Flies veteran, John Kelly, along with local stalwarts including Craig Bartlett, Dave Jones, Footlong DJs and Shane Morris. With a 6am finish and pre-party at Floyds Bar, it should be a long but enjoyable night, especially when Sonique pulls a few classic tracks out of the bag.

“There’ll be too many new tracks to mention,” she says. “A couple of classics which are always in my set list are Josh Wink’s Higher State Of Consciousness and Energy 52’s Café Del Mar. As for me, I’m working on a few different and exciting projects at the moment but can’t tell you about any of them yet – watch this space!”

Tickets: £10-£15. Info: 029 2023 2199 (RH)

WOOKIE

Blue Honey @ Gwdihw, Cardiff Sat 4 + Sun 5 Apr Just about all of your Easter Bank Holiday party needs are taken care of right here, courtesy of two days of musical loveliness.

On the Saturday, Daniel Wang headlines indoors with his brand of Chicagoinfluenced disco, with support from M.ono and Owain K. Then on Sunday the music also moves outdoors, when Mo Kolours and Tenderlonious will both be performing live.

Indoors on Sunday belongs to Wookie, the UK garage original who has gone on to put out more soulful material for the likes of Island and Virgin. He also found mainstream success remixing Jessie J and Rizzle Kicks.

“I’m back in the studio as of now,” he says. “I’m working on a few collaborations with producers, something which is very new for me. I’ve been working with T. Williams and that’s still going on – we have something to finish. My productions and DJ sets are a mixture of varied styles, predominately UK garage and house. I bring those together to create something energetic and vibey. It’s all-round feelgood music.”

This will be one of your first chances to dance outside, and Wookie will be bringing a suitably al fresco setlist. “There are many classic tracks in my set,” he explains. “We Are IE by Lennie De Ice being one of my favourites. As for something new you may not have heard yet, listen out for WATSN’s Sines Of Aging.”

Tickets: £8-£12 day/£18 weekend. Info: 029 2039 7933 (RH)

Buzz is the leading free monthly entertainment and culture guide for Wales for the last 23 years. Now we’re moving online with the brand new Buzz TV. Our online videos include new features, interviews and previews.

A Wonderful Christmas Time - An Improvised Film

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live

RADIO 2 FOLK AWARDS

Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay Wed 22 Apr Widely recognised as one of the most prestigious celebrations of the UK folk music sphere, the annual awards ceremony makes a stop in the Welsh capital for its 16th year of acclamations. Scottish folk singer and nominee amidst this year’s proceedings, Julie Fowlis, will be presenting alongside BBC Radio DJ Mark Radcliffe. We chatted to her to gain some specialist perspective on the event.

For example, what does the term ‘folk’ encompass these days? Fowlis provides a fullproof answer: “The lines between one style and another are becoming increasingly blurred. The term folk, to me, embraces traditional vocal and instrumental acoustic music, music ‘belonging to’ or ‘of the people’, singer-songwriters working in a folk or traditional style, whilst also recognising the wealth of new music being produced using traditional or folk melodies, style or instrumentation.”

The real spirit of the ceremony appears to be in the sharing and commendation of these new sounds as well as the broad array of respectable talent creating them. Nominees include well known names such as Cara Dillon, Bellowhead, Martin & Eliza Carthy as well as the emerging talent of The Gloaming, 9Bach, Josienne Clarke & Ben Walker and The Furrow Collective.

When asked if there were any acts the awards were especially pleased to recognise, Fowlis confirmed they will “bestow the Good Tradition Award to Meredydd Evans, tradition bearer, collector, academic and the foremost authority on Welsh language singing… Sadly, Meredith died only a few weeks ago so I imagine this will be a particularly poignant and emotional award.”

Further special appreciation will be reserved for a single longstanding contributor to folk music. This is the ‘Hall Of Fame’ and 2015’s inductee will be Ewan MacColl, who from the 1950s onwards made a historical impact on a global scale for the genre. Fowlis notes that this year will be “particularly fitting as it is the centenary of his birth”.

Also on the programme is an impressive bill of live music from the likes of legendary pop singer Yusuf – more commonly known as Cat Stevens [pictured] – Grammy award-winning artist Loudon Wainwright III, Wales’ own 9Bach and English folk singer-songwriter Kate Rusby.

Tickets: £20-£27.50 (sold out – check box office for returns). Info: 029 2063 6464 CHARLIE PIERCEY

pic: E Weible

DIM SWN 2015

Various venues, Cardiff Sat 11 Apr The best festivals in the world sometimes have to take a bit of a breather. Eavis & Co take a year off every so often to allow the land at Pilton Worthy farm to recover and it’s not an entirely dissimilar situation for Messrs Rostron & Stephens, curators of Swn. Last year’s weekend-long festival – which has been running annually since 2007 – was rested in favour of an all-dayer (Dim Swn) which played host to some amazing performances from the likes of The Amazing Snakeheads, The Wytches and Houdini Dax. Swn is back in full swing in 2015 with the weekend festival returning in November, but before that we’re treated to this day-long taster.

Co-founder John Rostron explains: “Last October's Dim Swn event showed that there was a real demand for Swn, and that a one-day format worked really well for everyone who came, so this new Swn allows us to offer that to Cardiff in a new timeslot in the year. People who come to Swn love new music, and love seeing bands they might never have heard of.”

There are some obvious highlights in the line-up for this event; Mercury Music Prize nominee East India Youth will no doubt bring in the crowds, as should up-andcomers Laura Doggett and Pretty Vicious.

Welsh artists are again at the fore, too – keep ‘em peeled for Titus Monk, Y Ffug, En Garde and Twisted [pictured].

Tickets: £25 (£12 ages 14-17). Info: www. swnfest.com (BG) BUZZ 46

MARIANA SADOVSKA

Pontardawe Arts Centre Fri 17 Apr Mariana Sadovska is an intriguing prospect on paper, and even more so once you’ve heard her. Dubbed the “Ukrainian Björk”, it doesn’t take a great leap of imagination to see why: her ability to take vocal traditions such as wedding rites and migrant chants from the remotest parts of her homeland and, using a variety of instruments and treatments, weave and contort these age old sounds into new and far stranger shapes justifies the comparison.

Sadovska is accompanied by versatile German percussionist and electronic sound artist Christian Thomé, who employs a whole raft of instruments to create a texturally rich platform from which Mariana launches her vocal flights.

In turn, she uses loop pedals, an Indian harmonium and Mongolian throat singing techniques to harmonise with herself until the polyphony envelopes the room.

Sadovska’s chameleonic music brings to mind global reference points, be it the hypnotic phased compositions of pioneering minimalist Steve Reich, modern electronic excursions from Hessle Audio as well as gestures towards other groups who engage in musical discourse with their nation’s heritage such as Taraf de Haïdouks. This melting pot of styles and influences, both new and ancient, ensures this performance should satisfy even the most omnivorous of ears.

Tickets: £10/£8/£1 family friendly. Info: 01792 863722 (AJ)

PORTHCAWL JAZZ FESTIVAL

Various venues, Porthcawl Fri 17-Sun 19 Apr Want a fresh headstart to jump into spring?

Then stroll down to the beach for the Porthcawl Jazz Festival, where along with your fish and chips, you can have cool chasers. Something about this musical style gels well with water. There's Newport and Monterey, North Sea and Montreux and south Wales has its own Jazz On The Sands.

Organized since 2004 by director Wayne Warlow, PJF offers three swinging nights of musicians from all corners, including 19 bands. First-time headliners The Temperance Seven (specialising in 1920s/30s trad) will be jiving their swell hits (Driving Me Crazy, Pasadena) with a dash of comedy (judging by their website).

Events are spread out around eight venues, including the splendid art deco/classically fronted Grand Pavilion. Others appearing under the octagonal dome include three quartets with their leaders – saxophonist Simon Spillet [pictured], multiinstrumentalist fusionist Eddie Parker and from Spain, Getxo vibraphone master Arturo Serra with pianist Juan Galiardo.

Additional artists will include violinist Sarah Smith and her trio, Brazilian bossa/samba singer/guitarist Gui Tavares, and – flying the flag for Wales – the 45-year-old Rhondda Symphony Pops Orchestra, Llantrisant's own vocalist Jeff Hooper, and Swanseabased gypsy/swing band Afternoon In Paris.

Tickets: £40 weekend/under-12s free/ individual events priced separately. Info: www.porthcawl-jazz-festival.com (RLR)

SIMPLE MINDS

Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff Sat 18 Apr Not many bands can release an album after 30 years that is as strong as their finest from three decades ago. Big Music saw Glasgow’s Simple Minds manage to successfully combine the experimental leanings of their early albums with their more commercial output. Recently a rather fine and cheaply priced box set called 5 X 5 was released of their early albums, that can be slotted somewhere between David Bowie and Neu on your shelves (indeed, the band name was taken from a line in a Bowie song).

Simple Minds managed to successfully fuse the caustic sarcasm of Lou Reed with the coldness of Kraftwerk and warmth of Giorgio Moroder’s production on their early albums. Although the albums that followed throughout the 80s and 90s were less experimental, they did have a more political edge and those songs still hold their own as stadium movers and shakers.

Primal Scream, Radiohead and The Horrors have all cited Simple Minds as an influence.

Last year the band played to over 100,000 people across the globe and now is your chance to experience what all the fuss is about, as Jim Kerr and his merry men are going to be blowing the roof of the Motorpoint Arena this month. Expect to hear early and more recent material, such as new single Honest Town.

Tickets: £49.50/£39.50. Info: 029 2022 4488 (DN)

Theatr Brycheiniog Box Office | Swyddfa Docynnau

01874 611 622 breconjazz.com

7/8/9 Aug/Awst 2015 “SPIRIT OF SATCH” DR. JOHN INTERPRETS LOUIS ARMSTRONG ROBERT GLASPER TRIO KENNY BARRON DAVE HOLLAND DUO ANDREA MOTIS & JOAN CHAMORRO

‘In the beautiful setting of the Brecon Beacons...’

CAPITAL CITY JAZZ ORCHESTRA

COURTNEY PINE PRESENTS ‘SONG (THE BALLAD BOOK)’ FEATURING ZOE RAHMAN DIGBY FAIRWEATHER’S HALF DOZEN JULIAN ARGÜELLES TETRA

GOGO PENGUIN

PARTISANS

PHRONESIS

SONGS FOR QUINTET

SONS OF KEMET

TARAF DE HAÏDOUKS

WINSTONE / GESING / VENIER

THURSDAY 7TH MAY

JULIA BIEL PIGFOOT

TAILS FOR WALES

SCOTT HAMILTON QUARTET

TIMO LASSY BAND

PLUS MUCH MORE...

FRIDAY 15TH MAY 2015

Y PLAS, CARDIFF UNIVERSITY

CH 2015 / CLWB IFOR BA

GAZ COOMBES NEVER NEEDED BOLLOX TOUR 2015 SATURDAY 23RD MAY 2015

The Gate Arts Centre, Cardiff

SUNDAY 7TH JUNE 2015

THE GLOBE CARDIFF

All tickets available from www.orchardentertainment.co.uk or call 02920 230 130

reviews albums

an 8-bit videogame that never saw the light of day. Vocals are soaked in reverb and delay, synths wobble, stab and loop their way into your head until it feels like you’re going to have a brain aneurysm.

It’s very lo-fi and it sounds like he was definitely having fun making it. GM

as late 70s/early 80s artists from Siouxsie And The Banshees to Wall Of Voodoo. Jana Hunter’s voice propels an album that carries a consistency absent on 2012’s Nootropics, with standouts displayed in Ondine and To Die In L.A., which recalls Robert Palmer’s Johnny And Mary. CP

GALLOWS ****

POLAR BEAR ****

THE CRIBS ****

Desolation Sounds (Venn/PIAS)

Same As You (Leaf)

For All My Sisters (Sonic Blew/Sony Red) When I was 18 I got blind drunk and won a dancing competition with a pretty girl at a sticky-floored indie disco in Preston and it was the best. Six albums in, the Cribs are still making the ideal soundtrack to nights out like those. {For All My Sisters} has a noticeably Weezer-esque sound, but the Jarman brothers’ Wakefield accents are unmistakeable; their knack for writing spikily catchy pop anthems undiminished. Songs like Different Angle and Mr Wrong are as strong as anything the Cribs have released to date. HR

Gallows’ self-titled third album was all about obliterating doubt after replacing the seemingly irreplaceable Frank Carter with Alexisonfire’s Wade MacNeil. Point resolutely made, their fourth is about metamorphosis.

Doom-laden guitar and malevolent slow-build atmospherics bolster MacNeil’s gruffer delivery, and while the band’s hardcore heart is still intact, it’s no longer the soundtrack to a Watford street brawl. Desolation Sounds is more like a ritualistic killing in a Scandinavian forest, and sees Gallows joining Coliseum in the heavy hinterlands. GP

Polar Bear’s newest album continues the band’s journey away from their initial jazz-rock moorings into freer waters by carrying on where In Each And Every One left off. The influence of various members’ ongoing work with Melt Yourself Down and Sons Of Kemet can be heard as Arabic and North African motifs drift in and out of the flow.

Same As You works as an organic whole that ebbs and flows and which, in places, brings to mind A Love Supreme. Recommended. DG

DRENGE ****

JESSE MALIN ***

Undertow (Infectious)

New York Before The War (One Little Indian)

The second album by Sheffield-based sibling duo Drenge is shaping up to be a winner: a combination of huge catchy rock tunes doused in dreamy spacerock FX and backed by grounding tinges of garage and grunge works a treat. The addition of big meaty production shows off the rumbling basslines (some of which are ably provided by additional bassist Rob Graham) and makes the whole record vibrate in your chest when you turn it up loud. Nicely done. EG

Following a drab opener, Malin’s latest release erupts into high-energy heartland rock that Springsteen, Petty and other greats of the genre would be proud of. Tracks such as Addicted and Freeway encapsulate everything that’s right with the album: it’s simple and honest yet brimming with bite and attitude.

Irritatingly, the drive and vigour is quashed on occasions owing to an excessive amount of dark, dreary numbers which appear out of place and are utterly dispensable. GT

ERRORS *** Lease of Life (Rock Action)

LONELADY ****

Being a newcomer to Errors, an unforced error if you will, I listened to their fourth LP afresh.

Opener Colossal Estates represents a new dawn in Balearic sound inspired by the band's wonder of recording in the Hebridean island wilderness and though it's a beautiful 3.03 minutes, it's a sunrise that ends too soon.

Lease Of Life shares the Korg M1 of 808 State and synth proggers Tangerine Dream and the finale of Through The Knowledge, with its 20-strong choir, evokes Jesus making comedown music. CS

Bowling from the pop end of the postpunk pitch, and singled out for praise by Paul Morley (surely as offputting as it is enticing) when her 2010 debut Nerve Up dropped, literally-named Manchester soloist LoneLady has come back with one of the year’s highlights to date. Jangly Ze Records guitar shimmies into disco basslines and vocals which, even when put through an FX rack, have the yearn factor in spades. Spiritually and sonically on terms with both Madonna’s and Prince’s early-80s work, Hinterland is much more successful as a pop album than I for one expected. NG

Hinterland (Warp)

LOWER DENS **** FAIRHORNS ****

Escape From Evil (Ribbon Music)

Fuckup Rush (Kindarad)

Fusing drone-drenched melancholia with stark, upbeat melodies, Lower Dens continue to produce a sublime balance of guitar and synth-based material reminiscent of fellow Baltimorean shoegazing contemporaries Beach House as well

Fairhorns is one man called Matt who plays in Beak>>, with his gadgets, and expert knobtwiddling prowess. This is strange, repetitive, drenched in effects and sounds like the score to

RYLEY WALKER ***** Primrose Green (Dead Oceans) Fans of 60s acid-folk, pastoral acoustic jams and jazz-inflected rock should LOOK RIGHT HERE NOW. Yes, NOW. If you rate Tim Buckley, prime John Martyn, Nick Drake, Van Morrison in his freewheeling days and Traffic at their most coherent, and wonder why no one makes ‘em like that anymore, then fret no more.

Ryley Walker has expertly crafted 10 jawdropping numbers especially for you, forging an instant classic from the very pores of this rich lineage. CS

SCUBA **** Claustrophobia (Hotflush) With an album title as on point as this, not to mention song titles like All I Think About Is Death, you would be forgiven for expecting a pretty bleak hour of music, but on the whole this isn’t the arduous, Haxan Cloak-level bludgeoning you might be bracing yourself for. Intricate melodies glide over the pervasive gloom underscored with drum patterns that plumb great depths and sparkling synth work, the legacy of Berlin’s dub techno is in safe hands. AJ

SHINING *** IX – Everyone, Everything, Everywhere, Ends (Season Of Mist) The cheerfully-titled soundtrack to the blossoming daffodils, baby ducks being born and not having to scrape ice from your car windscreen at 5.30am has arrived. The one-man Swedish suicide machine behind Shining has managed to craft a new album in between slicing himself up on stage and hating his life. There’s a bombastic intro that gives way to some heads down black/thrash metal and some other stuff which sounds like Dream Theater. It’s definitely not boring. GM

STORNAWAY ** Bonxie (Cooking Vinyl) Starting on a rather sickly note and remaining largely twee throughout, Stornaway appear to be trapped in an overtly cheerful bubble, the kind that you’d really love to prick but can’t because its already out of reach floating merrily upwards in the sunshine. Yes, it’s easy to be this dismissive until four tracks in when we arrive at some emotional depth with The Road You Didn’t Take. But then it’s gone again, and whilst it might occasionally flicker back, there’s no real lasting impression. CPI

THEM SQUIRRELS **** Exchanging Sayings (Shape) You might have been waiting a little while for Them Squirrels’ debut album, but it’s finally here, in all its twisted heteromorphic splendor. This debut album is at times strange, multi-coloured and beautiful whilst at others, it’s turbid, anarchic and downright noisy. But these traits, juxtaposed as they are, do make for a real exhilarating listen.

Standout tracks include the expansive melodies of Pulse The Moon and the unrestrained chaos of Polish Your Caravan. Definitely worth inflicting on your ears. CPI

THERAPY? **** Disquiet (Amazing) This is the first Therapy? long player I’ve listened to since 1995’s Infernal Love, which I enjoyed but it didn’t inspire me enough to pursue them further.

Nine albums later and Disquiet brings a lot of memories back, such are the similarities to their early stuff, most notably Troublegum. From opener Still Hurts onwards, it’s clear that the trio are intent on giving us mostly three-minute opuses that hark back to their most successful period. RH

TURBOWOLF *** Two Hands (Search And Destroy) Combining a rock god frontman in the tradition of Dio with space-age guitars and the urgency of hardcore punk, Bristol’s Turbowolf carved a pretty unique niche in UK heavy on their 2011 self-titled debut. If anything, this follow-up explores an even greater dynamic range, but the psychedelic touches only serve to confirm they’re at their best at their most frantic, simple and direct. Fresh from support slots with Royal Blood and DFA1979, 2015 could be a defining year. GP

VILLAGERS **** Darling Arithmetic (Domino) Ivor Novello winner Conor O'Brien's third album is a deeply personal one – spare but filled to the brim at

GAMES REVIEWS STICKY BALLS

SPRING NINJA

* Planet Of The Apps LTD Beware of appearances. Despite a sleek, minimal look and a cheerful music, Sticky Balls is a game fiendishly difficult to master which could quickly destabilize you. The objective is to control and split two moving balls with a single tap, dodge the lines and move straight towards the unknown. Concentration, dexterity and patience are essential qualities to go up levels of this challenging game. JM

** Ketchapp Spring Ninja is a runner-type game in which you master an adorable ninja with springs beneath its feet, jumping from platform to platform in order to beat your high score. It’s a game that can become addictive, as it’s very frustrating to achieve all the jumps to perfection. It takes more practice that I’m personally willing to give to master the art of hitting your next landing spot. JM

BUZZ 48

94% **** SCIMOB What do you say to testing your general knowledge and giving your brain a little training while having fun? This pleasant, family friendly game is simple: you just need to find the most popular answers based on words, expressions and images until you get 94% right. The app has many levels which get harder as you progress. Good moments of relaxation and a fun quiz game. JM

the same time. Dubliner O'Brien is a pensive lyricist (love, lust, loss and loneliness) and has done all the writting, playing, recording and producing.

Piano and mellotron make what could be simple folksy songs something more when paired with his acoustic guitar. The sublime, Cohenish Dawning On Me and subtly funky inward-searching-at-theseaside The Soul Serene are standouts. Rainy-day reflective listening. RLR

THE WOMBATS ***** Glitterbug (Warner Bros) The third studio album from Liverpudlian indie lads The Wombats, and their first release since 2011 sensation The Modern Glitch, was – according to frontman Murph – inspired by a fictional tempestuous relationship with a woman from LA. It retains the upbeat sound you expect from this band, but accompanied with darker, heavily themed lyrics. These twin elements come together nicely for a more mature, finely tailored sound, yet it's still very distinctly Wombats. DC

ZEFUR WOLVES *** Zefur Wolves (Strangetown) A somewhat refreshing rock release from Zefur Wolves. Reminiscent of 90s punk bands like The Distillers and Hole, but they lack that attitude and bite that made those bands as great as they were.

The production and instruments sound great, the vocals contrast beautifully with them and a mixture of bilingual songs add a much needed texture to the album. An album sure to entertain many alt-rock fans, but it's all been done before, and better. LB

singles AMBER RUN **** Noah (RCA) A feelgood indie-rock tune with a subconsciously catchy chorus. Think Mumfords crossed with Two Door Cinema Club: nothing you haven't heard before, but it's impressive for a band of this status to have such a mature, confident sound. You can catch them live in Cardiff on Thurs 23 Apr at Clwb Ifor Bach, too. DC

ANIMAL COLLECTIVE *** Prospect Hummer EP (FatCat) A one-off release for the die-hard AC lover, the first-ever vinyl pressing of this 2005 EP offers nothing new aside from the option of owning it in a different format. Vashti Bunyan lends her trademark ethereal vocals to three of this decent quartet of largely acoustic freak-folk tunes. BG

THE JOY FORMIDABLE / BLOOM / HEAVY PETTING ZOO *** Split 7” (Aruthrol) This is the third of the vinyl releases in TJF’s Aruthrol singles club, and this time a three-way split single. TJF’s Y Garreg Ateb finds them in soaring, jangly indie mode, with Ready To Run

by Bloom on a similar trip. HPZ’s Isabelle is two minutes of organic, female-fronted punk. RH

MARIBOU STATE **** Ritual (Counter) Ritual is somnambulistic house; glitchy, but with the edges rounded off in a way that wouldn’t sound out of place on the last Caribou album. Hints of dreamlike psychedelia flit in and out of the mix, and at times the song feels like it’s starting to topple under its own weight. DG

NADINE SHAH ** Fool (Apollo) Fool, the lead single from Nadine Shah’s forthcoming second LP Fast Food, is a powerful return; discordant and dripping with scorn for its unfortunate subject. Shah’s deep, sonorous tones lend the track real weight and each lyric is deliberate and powerfully scornful. Shah’s debut album was superb. On this evidence, Fast Food will be just as strong. HR

SWIM DEEP **** To My Brother (Chess Club) First single the Birmingham-based indie band has released since wiz keyboardist James Balmont joined, and they've now mixed psych-pop with techno.

Best bits: the lovely refrain with airy vocals and echoing guitars. This dancefloor-filler recalls the Happy Mondays and S-Express' synth lines, ending in a mind-bending reverb blast. Enjoy this trip! RLR

YOUTH MAN *** Hill Of Knives (self-released) Enjoyed this Brummie trio – youthful by most standards; a mere twothirds male – when I saw them on their home turf last year. While Youth Man are cagey about their inspirations, the touchstones which struck me then hold during this five-song EP: chiefly, the hyperactive tautness of McLusky circa Do Dallas and the earth mama drama of Throwing Muses. NG

demos PREPPA

oneinchpunchrecordings.bandcamp.com AKA Cardiff's Gary Rowlands, Preppa is his more recent alias: if you touch proverbial base with the guys who do the Dragon Era night, you may know him as Tribal Hooligan. On the Shadow Warrior Dub EP, the “deep minimal sounds” of that project give way to four tracks of digital dub and dubstep. It’s not exactly working with a groundbreaking sound palette, but it’s still large, propulsive and worth a headnod or two. NG

THE KIX facebook.com/thekix1 This section is late to the party regarding a writeup on The Kix, an Aberdare trio who, quote, “dress head to toe in leather and lace” when playing live. Buzz is at least distinguished from 100% Biker, Back Street Heroes and Plugged In by not having a name which makes it sound like a gay porn mag. Anyway, the three new Kix songs currently circulating are excellent: postRunaways pop-metal with modern, chart-aware production, big choruses and NWOBHM solos.

The Kix are my favourite ‘new’ band who have actually achieved loads without me noticing. NG

GERAINT RHYS & THE LOST GENERATION www.geraintrhys.com Geraint, a solo fella from Swansea, asked nicely if Buzz could check out the music videos he’s made, as opposed to just the tracks. They’re decent, although I did wonder if Think Again and Take Your Time were conceptually linked or just recycled ideas (mooching through backstreets; writing lyrics on bits of paper etc). Suffice to say, they go pretty well with his melange of boisterous, blusterous folk-rock, occasional dub bits and social commentary. NG

THIS MONTH’S

DVD PICK

WHAT WE DO IN THE SHADOWS 15 (Metrodome) The team behind Flight Of The Conchords make use of the most of the vampire theme and use it as a hilarious excuse to dress up in medieval garb, fly around and put on ‘Transylvanian’ accents. The unnamed filmmakers in this mockumentary are following around four vampire roommates and witness them hunting nightclubs for dinner, arguing over ‘bloody’ dishes and get their heads around using a computer. It’s a silly romp done extremely well, with a great script and the ideal cast to pull it off. *****HA

THE TURNING 15 (Soda Pictures) This Australian film based on Tim Winton’s collection of short stories is epic, ambitious, gorgeous to look at, and hypnotic in its mood. It was also made by 18 different directors which, whilst being brave and innovative, gives it a disjointed feel that robs it of any cohesion. It’s a stunning piece of filmmaking, but in truth it’s just a little dull. ***RHA

ST VINCENT 12 (Eiv) Billy Murray plays a surly old guy who likes to spend his days drinking, gambling and meeting with a pregnant prostitute (played by Naomi Watts). When a 12-year-old boy – who lives with his overworked single mum (Melissa McCarthy) – moves in next door, the two soon make unlikely friends. It’s a well worn plot to a feel-good movie and if Murray hadn’t been around to inject his own charm, this film probably wouldn’t be any good (dispute the other talent in the cast – namely Mccarthy and Chris O'Dowd – who are underused). Murray, however, is in it and makes it funny enough to watch at least once. ***HA

LEVIATHAN 15 (Artificial Eye) This Oscar-nominated drama from director Andrey Zvyagintsev tells the story of a frustrated Russian man who fights against political corruption when he is forced to move out of his family home. Although dark and depressing throughout, this is a great piece of filmmaking that would almost be too harrowing were it not so compelling. Not one for repeat viewings, but definitely worth seeing. ****RHA

LET’S KILL WARD’S WIFE 15 (Solo Media) Ah, the old ‘murder comedy’ film, where the murder is justified because the victim was unlikeable and/or an annoying scoundrel, whose body is disposed of too much hilarity. This is so absurd that it almost has charm, but not quite. The undoubtedly cheap budget and TV movie running time see to that. If you want a really clever, funny and interesting comedy about murder, watch Horrible Bosses, not this. *RHA

MY OLD LADY 12 (Curzon Film World) Kevin Kline stars as an American who inherits a beautiful old Paris apartment. It’s the perfect home, except for the fact that it contains Maggie Smith as the property’s un-budging nonagenarian resident.

Kirstin Scott plays Smith’s uptight daughter and you can guess the rest. As per usual the ensemble cast are a joy to watch. Witty and adorable. ****AL

PRIDE 15 (20th Century Fox Home Entertainment) An out, loud and proud British film of a Brassed Off ilk. It’s 1984, Maggie Thatcher is in power and miners up and down the UK are on strike. A London based gay rights group wants to offer their support to the National Union of Mineworkers, but are turned away. They instead take their efforts straight to the village of Onllwyn in Neath Port Talbot. The unlikely paring have a wobbly start (with lots of laughs as it goes) but soon grow close. Fantastically written, brilliant cast and wonderfully Welsh. ****HA

BUZZ 49

MUSIC NEWS EXTRA

pic: Meredith Graves

As detailed in March’s issue of Buzz, hopes are high for new Cardiff Bay venue Portland House as it prepares to launch this month. However, the vaults which lie below the onetime bank will no longer be used as a club venue. Performing that function since late 2009, promoters including Backroom and Cellar Door regularly packed it out, but an unspecified licence issue means that its excitingly stark subterranean nooks and crannies are to be unraved in for now. Cellar Door, who can boast an army of regulars keen to party in unconventional spaces, have been liaising with Cardiff Council in the hope of setting up shop somewhere similar.

They’ve got a bash booked for Sun 3 May, in a venue they hope will be The One – although it won’t be revealed until the day

The Brecon Jazz festival has had a healthy chunk of its 2015 lineup announced, and the organisers are calling it “their most international lineup ever”.

Our statisticians have yet to confirm if this is the case, but it’s certainly an impressive spread. Topping the bill are a couple of iconic Americans: New Orleans voodoo dood Dr John performs his Louis Armstrong tribute set, while Texan pianist Robert Glasper is set to dazzle in

the piano trio format. Other notables hail from Brazil (Adriano Adewale), Romania (the tremendous Taraf de Haïdouks) and Finland (Timo Lassy). From the UK, there’s crossover successes like Sons Of Kemet, Pigfoot, Phronesis and GoGo Penguin

Joanna Gruesome [pictured] release their second album Peanut Butter in early May, a little over 18 months since debut LP Weird Sister. Hardly what you’d call a commercial record, if an oddly tuneful one, its feedbacky jumble of jangly indie and punk rock proved much more popular than expected, and led to worldwide tours and 2014’s Welsh Music Prize award. Peanut Butter, even snappier than its predecessor at 25 minutes to Weird Sister’s 29, mines similar territory, but with superior songs and the development of a signature JG sound.

The band had formed in Cardiff before dispersing (to go to university) by the time Weird Sister was released, but are largely based in the Welsh capital again

A Cardiff-based digital development team is looking to secure funds for its chief project, an online platform which connects classical musicians. It’s called Musiqli, and the idea behind it is that

it’ll use algorithms to match performers with relevant skills, depending on what they profess to be looking for. So a bit like a dating site, but without the... dating. The work of four individuals – Steve Talbot and Carwyn Balch, who both live in Caerphilly; Cardiff-based Dafydd Griffiths and Alexandra Schwinn, who lives in London – Musiqli have launched a Kickstarter campaign, aiming to get £15,000 of funding.

Check out www.musiqli.com for more

They say a journey of a thousand miles starts with a single step, and here are two brand new south Walian record labels treating us to their digital footprint.

Becoming Records, founded by Cardiffbased experimental musician Matthew Lovett, kicks off with a five-song EP by Boris A Bono, an electronic pop solo project. In The Doldrums combines melodic keyboard parts and melancholy vocals with IDM-ish digital processing to engaging effect. Meanwhile, the Pity My Brain label releases Dead Shed Jokers’ second, eponymous album on Mon 13 Apr; 70s-style heavy rock with prog and psych leanings, the Aberdare group are aided by a beefy production

ONE TO WATCH...

TENDER PREY

Laura Bryon has been releasing music in various guises for roughly a decade.

None of it has yet arrived in album form, but in early May that’s going to change with the release of Organ Calzone, her debut LP as Tender Prey.

Which will also be available, word has it, as a “vintage reclaimed compact cassette with free Rorschach psychological test cards”. Just the thing I need.

Previously, you might have found Bryon singing in King Alexander, a mid-00s Cardiff band who made excitable, serrated postpunk and left behind a couple of EPs. Her first solo venture, under the name Le B, resulted in a low-key 2008 7” on the Bird label – an offshoot of Finders Keepers Records, set up

by Manchester perennial Jane Weaver to release music by women. For a few years in between, Bryon’s live sets were sporadic, releases nonexistent. Adopting the Tender Prey name around 2011 saw a slow upturn in activity, however, revealing her to have moved away from Le B’s folky vibe into realms of wyrd blues, skeletal garage rock and maybe some Raincoats-ish postpunk.

This all comes together on Organ Calzone, which was recorded by Steve Black (better known as Sweet Baboo) and is drummed on by Emma Daman Thomas from Islet. Making a minimal setup work like a charm, an underlying darkness is offset by lyrics of wit and bathos. Released once again by Bird, if you can’t wait until May the label also has a brand new split 7” featuring Tender Prey and Jane Weaver herself. twitter.com/tenderpreymusic

BUZZ 50

one louder JUST another morning in an ordinary branch of HSBC, visiting to perform a quick and mundane finance-based task. Soundtracking you will be the banking giant’s own radio station, which mixes pleasant adult pop hits (The Whole Of The Moon or There She Goes, say) with a brightvoiced DJ who cues the music, reps the brand and runs down the day’s most noteworthy news stories. Today, these include Kanye West’s recent unveiling as Glastonbury 2015 headliner, and more importantly the pushback against this in the form of a change.org online petition, demanding the star is replaced on the bill by “a rock band”.

It’s advisable to think long and hard before you say ‘is this really news?’, because that means you’re siding with the sort of pompous toads who normally say ‘is this really news?’ All that considered, some might argue that rock fan Neil Lonsdale’s petition, which literally anyone with internet access could have started if similarly exercised, isn’t necessarily important enough to mention in a 30-second summary of the day’s biggest events. So this column isn’t about it (especially because Neil has modestly described it as “a joke” and “a bit of banter”).

Rather, it’s about the mentality it represents: one in which there’s ‘real music’ and, by implication, music which is not real. So-called music. Music, if you can call it that. ‘Music’.

This mentality has a rich history stretching back through the centuries, which I am happy to admit I am cribbing from Google Books. In 1887, Leos Janácek took shots at a rival composer’s comic opera – “this so-called music,” he sniffed, suggesting his foe’s major talent was “to induce deafness”. Fast forward to World War II, and in 1942 we find Joseph Goebbels mulling jazz: “Really not music at all, but rather only an untalented, random playing with tones.”

Jazz, improvisatory and non-linear in its nature, used to catch this heat quite a lot. Even when not delivered by the Nazis’ chief propaganda minister, it doesn’t take unusual political shrewdness to see that there might have sometimes been a racially charged aspect to this. Time marches on, though, and what was once scary and outré has now been absorbed into the fabric of culture. Nowadays, anyone wanting to be an outright racist in a public arena without reprise has to at least choose their words, and targets, a little more carefully, and how fortunate that they have a modern bogeyman in the form of rap music. There are many caveats, too, for them to fall back on: sexism, homophobia, consumerism, glorification of violence and sweet, sweet autotune. All of those things are unequivocally or sometimes bad, and yet, even when a broadside against rap uses them as leverage, you can always just tell when it’s a disingenuous, bad-faith argument.

You’re right, of course: I am overblowing things in a buttonpushing way. Not everyone who makes a big deal out of certain types of music not being ‘real’ is a racist. Sometimes they’re sexist (gurls and their teen heartthrobs), classist (chavs and their Corsas with the huge subwoofers), homophobic (cf the ‘Disco Sucks’ campaign in late-70s USA) or elitist too. That last one is easiest to get away with, because unless they have zero critical filter it exists in everyone to some degree. It is always useful to quietly examine your own positions and prejudices, though, unless you end up like Neil Lonsdale – railing against Kanye for what he “represents” before suggesting violent domestic abuser Lindsey Buckingham, and his Fleetwood Mac bandmates, as a suitable replacement.

My petition to cancel the appearances of GBH (Pyle British Legion, Bridgend, Sat 4 Apr), A PLACE TO BURY STRANGERS, SEPTEMBER GIRLS and CHAIN OF FLOWERS (Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff, Wed 8), GURT, PIST, BONGCAULDRON and THORUN (The Moon Club, Thurs 9), SLY & THE FAMILY DRONE and SPIDER KITTEN (The Abacus, Fri 10), RYLEY WALKER (Clwb Ifor, Tue 21), THE OPPRESSED (Moon Club, Sun 26), DIANE CLUCK (Moon Club, Tue 28) and ICEAGE (Clwb Ifor, Wed 29) has garnered over 300,000,000 signatures. NOEL GARDNER

get out!

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Food & Drink - Genevieve Taylor "How to eat outside” - HangFire Smokehouse Guyrope Gourmet - Live Music - the bleedin noses - remi harris - glow globes fun on the farm - shearing demo - lamb racing - craft village - felt making - willow weaving - fun for kids - cookery - adventure playground - bushcraft - circus skills

2015 JUNE 24

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books

BOOK OF THE MONTH

THE FLY GUY Colum Sanson-Regan (WordFire Press)

The Fly Guy is the debut novel of musician, actor and now author Colum Sanson-Regan. He's written a sinister thriller which explores the creative process and questions how much control artists have over their creations.

Martin Tripp is a struggling writer who appears to strike gold when he creates private investigator Henry Bloomburg. Henry has solved a lot of unusual cases although one mystery still eludes him, the case of The Fly Guy… a deviant man who seems to slip through the streets unnoticed, appearing to shadow the dead.

Martin writes the interconnected stories of a drug dealer, a bodyguard, a private investigator and Lucy. When Martin finds himself getting stuck on their stories, he buries them. In real life, he embraces change in the form of routine and a more conventional way of life. But when Martin spots someone he shouldn’t, someone he can’t possibly be seeing, the line between fantasy and reality is blurred. Martin finds that he can no longer control Henry’s timeline, his obsession with the Fly Guy’s identity threatens everything that Martin has built.

Martin is initially likeable and relatable, but as the story progressed I became apprehensive. Where exactly does his inspiration come from? The story concludes in such a way that I had to draw some of my own conclusions. Is the mystery solved?

How exactly are these lives connected? There are many unanswered questions which serve to add mystery to the story, but perhaps an equally thrilling sequel would be appropriate to provide some closure. From a mind that is no stranger to creativity and science fiction, we are presented with the lives of multiple people from different worlds that intersect, bringing chaos to their creator. The Fly Guy is a gripping novel that will keep you unsure till the very end. DAMI OKHIRIA Price: £10.99 / £3.99 eBook. Info: www.wp.sansonreganbooks.com

OVER THE LINE

THE ARC OF THE SWALLOW

Steve Howell (Quaero Publishing)

Sissel-Jo Gazan (Quercus)

Over The Line is a novel with a purpose: an exploration of steroid abuse, both within and outside of the world of sport, and a social commentary on the fickleness of fame. Athlete Megan Edwards is the poster girl for the upcoming Olympics in Rio. The world is at her feet until she becomes embroiled in the suspicious death of her schoolfriend and ex-boyfriend. As the story unfolds, Megan's promising athletic future looks to be in doubt as questions are raised about her innocence.

With her coach beginning to question whether she is using anabolic steroids and increased interest from the police, Megan's journey to the Olympics looks ever more uncertain. The author has clearly set out to make a statement with this novel and he has done so successfully. ED Price: £7.99. Info: www.steve-howell.com

For those gripped by a Danish crime addiction, Sissel-Jo Gazan is a name to remember.

The Arc Of The Swallow, the follow-up to her debut novel The Dinosaur Feather, deals with the fallout when a controversial scientist is found hanged just days after returning from a trip to West Africa – where he uncovered startling facts about immunology programmes. His assistant and a local police detective suspect foul play and work to uncover the truth, a journey which takes them into the ruthless world of pharmaceutics.

Mixing turbulent suspense with complex characterisation and detailed research (Gazan spent two years with a Danish research group), The Arc Of The Swallow stands out from the crowd as a sharp, entertaining and developed thriller which explores the murky world of capitalist science. JD Price: £14.99 / £12.99 eBook. Info: www. quercusbooks.co.uk

CRIME CORNER A nod to Orwell... A pinch of Fleming... A soupçon of Le Carre... A touch of Lee Child... mixed together in a stew of thrills and violence which make for a delicious debut thriller. The Distance by Helen Giltrow (Orion, £8.99 P/B) thrusts the reader into the cross and double-cross world of international espionage where life is cheap but loyalty comes at a high price.

The woman, who acts as puppet master from her penthouse at Canary Wharf pulling the strings of those who serve her – and it’s those who serve the business interests and governments that pay heavy prices for her expertise, has only one soft spot. One man who she considered lost, but who returns for one last job. His task is to infiltrate the futuristic hell of a prison colony run by the prisoners themselves and assassinate one of the inmates. To kill a killer and remain alive.

Giltrow throws everything into the novel, which is brilliantly plotted and characterised, stylish in the extreme, and with surprise twists and turns that just jump off the page. This one certainly does go the distance.

MARK TIMLIN

BUZZ 52

@mabjones We begin, in spring, with the spring-like launch of Carole Burns’ eagerly awaited short story collection (Cameo Club, Cardiff, Wed 1, 7.30pm. Info: www. caroleburns.com). It is followed, the next day, by Seren’s regular First Thursday (Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff, Thurs 2. Info: www.chapter.org), which features Jonathan Edwards, Lesley Saunders, and Joao Morais.

Joao’s friends, writers Dan Tyte and Richard Owain Roberts, curate another Pyramid Scheme literary event (Little Man Coffee, Cardiff, Fri 10, 7.30pm.

Info: www.facebook.com/DTROR). The day before, from 12.30pm, a plaque will be placed in tribute to writer Dannie Abse in the Cardiff City FC Memorial Garden. There will be readings from poets Tony Curtis and Mike Jenkins, also.

The regular Open Mic Night event (Imperial Hotel, Merthyr, Thurs 16) takes place with guest Helen Burke. Newport continues apace with its usual night, Open Mic Spoken Word Extravaganza (Ye Olde Murenger House, Newport, Wed 22) hosted by the amiable Alan Roderick. The following week poet Ifor ap Glyn (The Holiday Inn, Newport, Wed 29, 6.30pm. Info: newportandgwentliterarysociety. wordpress.com) asking if poets should perform, in an annual lecture hosted by the Newport and Gwent Literary Club.

Finally, bimonthly event Heartspoken (Kuku Club, Cardiff, Sun 19, 7.30pm. Info: www.kukuclub.co.uk) brings ‘fire of London’, poet Salena Godden, on a rare visit to Wales. Be there at 7.30pm to sign up for the open mic. And, I will leave you a poem from the wonderful Jo Mazelis, whose new book Significance is available now.

BLACK, WITH SPLASHES OF SCARLET Unpredictably, words might land On the back of her hand in spring Or summer as ladybirds do.

They had better business elsewhere Tending to house fires And all manner of horrors.

But still, while they gave their Minute weight to her delicate Skin, she took the time To count their spots Admire their self-contained beauty.

Every creature flies away eventually.

Neither words nor jam jars Can halt the final disaster Or talk their pretty way out of it.

Jo Mazelis (@JoMazelis)

lifestyle

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MUSIC MUST-HAVES Sometimes just listening to music isn’t enough, you need it to trickle through into every single aspect of your life – whether it’s showering, sleeping or tossing a salad. If you have a music lover in your life, but don’t personally know your bow from your g-string, then this selection of music themed miscellanea can act as a great gift guide.

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1. KITCHEN TIMER, Prezzybox, £9.95, www.prezzybox.com / 2. HAPPY JACKSON TIDY TUNES EARPHONE CASE, Mollie & Fred, £8.99, www.mollieandfred. co.uk / 3. ONLY MUSIC CAN SAVE US COASTER, Urban Graphic, £2.50, www.urbangraphic.co.uk / 4. GUITAR SALAD SERVERS, Maiden, £15.00, www. maidenshop.com / 5. RECORD SLEEVES COLOURING BOOK 2, Maiden, £7.50, www.maidenshop.com / 6. KEYNOTE KEY HANGER, The Gift Oasis, £14.29, www.thegiftoasis.com / 7.TONGUE TEA INFUSER, The Gift Oasis, £17.49, www.thegiftoasis.com / 8. SHOWER RADIO YELLOW SUB, The Gift Oasis, £19.99, www.thegiftoasis.com / 9.BOOMBOX IMUSIC PILLOW, Prezzybox, £29.95, www.prezzybox.com

BUZZ 53

R

ECORD STORE ROUND UP

Can you believe it’s that time of year again? No not Easter, Record Store Day. On Sat 18 Apr, music lovers across the world will be celebrating their favorite musical purchasing haunts. If you need help choosing one, don’t freak out: Alex Cornish is here to have a look at South Wales’ best independent record shops.

pic: Owen Mathias: owenmathias.com Spillers

DERRICKS MUSIC

D’VINYL RECORDS

RETRO-VIBE MUSIC

221 Oxford Street, Swansea 01792 654226 / www.derricksmusic.co.uk Specialising in “blues-rock and everything else”, Derricks is a Swansea institution and rightfully so. Expect to find a mix-up of vintage classics and sought-after contemporary stuff within its walls, as well as merchandise and gig tickets. Derricks is an excellent example of a local record store also serving as a focus point for the local music scene, and is worth a visit for any music enthusiast who finds themselves nearby. There’s a cashpoint in the wall outside too, which is just genius on the part of the owner.

4 Mackintosh Place, Cardiff 029 2049 4998 / www.facebook.com/dvinylrecords Describing itself as “an Aladdin’s Cave” for vinyl enthusiasts, I’d compare it more to being stuck in the genie’s bottle. It’s small but it’s rammed, with records at excellent prices. The owner knows his stuff and is a pleasure to deal with, multiple purchases often resulting in very generous discounts; he’ll also hold stuff for you if he gets it in. Worth visiting just for the atmosphere as lively conversation is inevitable in a place like this. Possibly the best second-hand record shop in Cardiff, when both price and selection are considered.

8-10 St Mary Street, Cardiff 029 2023 1803 / www.retro-vibemusic.com First thing you’ll notice is that, compared to its rivals, it’s massive and so is the selection. Record stores often end up being cramped, crowded elbows-in-faces types of places but Retro-Vibe – founded in Barry, recently relocated to Cardiff – is an exception to that.

Genre-wise, there is certainly a lean towards vintage guitar music: you’d be hard pressed to find that latest Floating Points white label, but the selection is still very good. Pricing is usually aimed more towards serious collectors than new buyers, so tread carefully if you fear the dreaded beep of ‘insufficient funds’.

DIVERSE MUSIC

KELLYS RECORDS

SPILLERS

10 Charles Street, Newport 01633 259661 / www.diversevinyl.com First opening their doors in 1988, Diverse Music is nothing if not true to their name. Expect to find Laura Marling sitting next to the latest Death Grips album on their shelves; their web store is also exceptionally good and a lot easier to use than some of the others on this list, so top marks for that too.

Although it might seem quiet at times, tucked away as it is, if you find a gem hidden here snap it up as there’s consistent traffic throughout the day. With friendly and knowledgable staff, you’ll only wish you could stay longer as their encyclopaedic knowledge of the South Wales music scene makes for interesting listening whilst you browse.

Cardiff Central Market 029 2037 7355 / www.kellysrecords.com If, like me, you savour the hunt for a hidden gem and can spend an afternoon digging through boxes of musty vinyl, then you’ll probably already know all about Kellys. Taking over a large chunk of the upstairs at Cardiff market, you’d be hard-pressed not to find something to take home here. Prices can be a little eyewatering at times, however, and are essentially non-negotiable, which might put a lot of people off. Lots of genres are covered here, with 60s, 70s and 80s releases comprising the lion’s share of stock.

27 Morgan Arcade, Cardiff 029 2022 4905 / www.spillersrecords.co.uk What can be said about Spillers that hasn’t already been said by someone better? Not a lot. For those who don’t know, it’s the oldest record store in the world, established in 1894. Staff are knowledgeable to a fault and genres stocked are exceptionally broad in scope: with everything from Dean Blunt to Louis Armstrong, there’s something for everyone. Spillers is great for fans of under-the-rader contemporary music – whoever does the buying has excellent taste – but tread carefully on payday, as you’ll always find something extra to buy. Incidentally, they also host good instore performances. Considered a gem among UK record shops, and rightfully so.

BUZZ 54

listings

Inclusion in Buzz Listings is free. Send via post or email by 17th of the previous month. Buzz takes no responsibility for material sent or any errors made after time of going to press. * – recommended

CAM 15 Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay, Sat 25 Apr Tickets: £12. Info: 029 2023 6464 / www.wmc.org.uk

Having started out the best part of a decade ago as a record label, Peski Records have branched out with a weekly radio show called Cam O’r Tywyllwch, where they play all kindsa weird and woolly stuff. This month, they’re invading the Wales Millennium Centre and putting on a fabbo-looking multimedia alldayer.

From midday until 6pm, there’ll be film screenings, discussions, and sound installations. The live music will start with a performance of Sam Richards’ Fish Music, where string musicians perform a score determined by the movements of fish swimming in a tank. This is followed by what has to be the most noteworthy part of the day – indeed, for some it probably amounts to one of the coups of the year.

Datblygu, a Welsh language band who made surreal, obtuse postpunk music with poetic, quotable lyrics during the 80s and 90s, are playing their first gig in 20 years. Patricia Morgan of the band is an affiliate of the Peski team, so if this helped grease the wheel, then pray thanks.

Also on the bill will be the synth-driven blissouts of R. Seiliog; Y Pencadlys, a thumping electronic punk solo project; and Ela Orleans [pictured], who lives in Glasgow and used to play in a curious experimental pop band called Hassle Hound. This will all take place in the Donald Gordon Theatre, which you might think a little optimistic; however, the setup will have everyone, bands, punters and all, on the theatre’s giant stage.

It promises to be unlike anything hitherto seen in this venue.

CONTENTS pg 56 pg 59 pg 61 pg 67 pg 74

art clubs events live stage BUZZ 55

art

art The Abacus 18-20 Wood Street, Cardiff. Free. modernalchemists@gmail.com / www.theabacusroom. wordpress.com *Look! No Hands!

“Visceral and imaginative artwork that seeps out from the caverns of hallucinations, intrusive thoughts, psychedelia, troubles, dreams, desires, manifestations, burnt down buildings and whatever you found at the other end of the rainbow,” is what’s promised here. Selected from submissions, the deadline for which was late March.

(From Fri 10 until Sun 26 Apr) Aberystwyth Arts Centre University Of Wales, Aberystwyth. Free. MonSat 10am-8pm. 01970 621903 / www.aber.ac.uk/ artscentre Y Mabinogi Illustrations, curated by Peter Stevenson, to complement a storytelling of the Four Branches of Y Mabinogi here on Sat 14 Mar. (Until Sat 4 Apr) Robert Davies ‘Of Time And The Railway’ A film about the railway line between Birmingham and Aberystwyth, filmed from the driver’s cab of the train

weekly over one year. (Until Sat 11 Apr) A Celebration Of Welsh Architecture The Royal Society Of Architects In Wales presents the winners of Wales’s most prestigious architecture awards in 2014. (Until Sat 2 May) Britain From Above Royal Commission exhibition drawing on The Aerofilms Collection, an archive of one million aerial photographs dating from 1919 to 2006. (Until Sat 16 May) The Hot Pot Project Evolving exhibition of ceramics from the Ann Carr Collection, a major donation of Michael Cardew and Wenford Bridge pottery. (Until Sun 14 June) Inside Welsh Homes Images drawn from the Royal Commission’s visual archive of the architecture and archaeology of Wales, offering a glimpse inside Welsh homes over time.

(From Sat 11 Apr until Sat 6 June) The BO Portrait Award 2014 Works on display include the winner of the £30,000 first prize as well as the work of the BP Young Artist 2014 and the BP Travel Award 2013 winners. (From Wed 22 Apr until Sat 30 May) Albany Gallery 74b Albany Road, Cardiff.

Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 11am-4pm. Free.

029 2048 7158 / www. albanygallery.com Nick Holly, Sian McGill

& Penelope Timmis Holly paints naïve scenes, mainly of Swansea, Cardiff and New York; McGill is a young Swansea artist having her first show at this gallery; Timmis paints dramatic flower paintings, semi abstract landscapes and farm animals. (From Thurs 2 until Sat 25 Apr) Steve Alport, Dai David & Muriel Delahaye Alport is a Cardiff based artist and dog portraiture, mainly in charcoal, features strongly in this exhibition.

David’s portraits, landscapes and group studies hve been acquired by the BBC, the British Army and the Vatican, so if paintings could talk I daresay his would have appeared in court as witnesses.

Delahaye is inspired by the Cardigan Bay coastline and shows how the changing movements of the sea convey real life situations.

(From Thurs 30 Apr until Sun 23 May) Andrew Lamont Gallery (Theatr Brycheiniog) Canal Wharf, Brecon.

Open Mon-Fri 10am-5pm.

Free. 01874 611622 / enquiries@brycheiniog. co.uk / www.brycheiniog. co.uk Agincourt 1415: The Brecknock Connection Telling the story of the 169 men and boys from the area enlisted to fight in Henry V’s army in 1415.

PENARTH ART FAIR Penarth Pier Pavilion, Fri 17-Sun 19 Apr Admission: free. Info: 07980 009332 / www.cardiffartscollective.co.uk Everything’s better when you club together, goes a slogan that should really exist but which I actually just made up. Regardless, it’s the ethos that’s helped to create the first Penarth Art Fair, running for three days in the town’s delightful Pier Pavilion venue. The Cardiff Arts Collective, which was founded in 2012 with the intention of supporting creative types in this region and fomenting collaborations, are the main people behind the Fair.

Galleries taking part include Fountain Fine Art, Gallery/Ten and Kooywood Gallery in the city centre; Fireworks Studios behind Cardiff Central station, and Oriel Canfas in Canton. Artists involved will be able to sell directly to the public, which will be a boon for both parties in the transaction.

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(Until Sat 11 Apr) Patricia Mears, Joan Hughes & Pat Johnson ‘Triskelion’ Textile and mixed media work. (From Fri 17 Apr until Sat 16 May) Arcadecardiff Queens Arcade, off Queen Street, Cardiff. Usually open Wed-Sat 12.305.30pm. www.arcadecardiff.co.uk Barrie J Davies Curating a group show of pop culture activists from far and wide: Bevis Fenner, Paul Kindersley, Mark ScottWood, Jock Mooney and Barrie himself. (Until Sat 4 Apr) Blister Cinema Genetic Moo and Dr Neil Dufton present an interactive installation about the bacteria and immune cells inside a human blister.

(From Sat 11 until Sun 19 Apr) Geraint Evans ‘A Hermit in Suburbia’ Paintings, drawings and animations by Swanseaborn, London-based artist, depicting the manicured and fabricated landscapes of suburban green belt land. Recall thinking this was really neat when it was shown somewhere before.

(From Thurs 23 Apr until Sat 9 May) Art Across The City Various locations, Swansea. Admission free.

01792 468979 / www. artacrossthecity.com Locws International: Art Across The City Popular annual showcase of temporary and permanent public art by a diverse range of artists. This year features artists Michael Stumpf, Graham Dolphin, Emily Speed, Colin Priest and David Cushway; respectively, they bring you balloons, Wild West monuments, Joe’s ice cream, land speed attempts and tap dancing boulders. (Until Mon 1 June) Art Central Barry Town Hall, King Square, Barry. Tue-Sat 11am-4pm. Admission free. 01446 709805.

Disability Arts Cymru Exhibition Bringing together over 40 disabled and deaf artists from across Wales, this exhibition is dedicated to Mark Anthony Annis (1961-2014) who was an active member of DAC and one of 20 artists to exhibit in the inaugural exhibition at this gallery.

(From Sat 4 until Sat 25 Apr) Attic Gallery 37 Pocketts Wharf, Maritime Quarter, Swansea. Tue-Fri 10am5.30pm, Sat 10am4.30pm. Free. 01792 653387 / www. atticgallery.co.uk Three Printmakers The intimacy of couples, Welsh landscapes and wildlife are amongst the subjects in this exhibition by three established artist-printmakers:

Trevor Price, Judith Stroud and Alan Williams. (Until Sat 11 Apr) Karel Lek, George Little & Gareth Thomas Lek: a painter and drawer of “modest people in modest situations”. Little reflects on the colour, texture and shape brought about by the decay of various heavy industries.

Thomas “is fascinated by the effect of light on colour” in places including Wales and Provence. (From Sat 18 Apr until Sat 9 May) Barker Gallery / Torfaen Gallery Pontypool Museum, Park Buildings, Pontypool.

Mon-Sat 11am-5pm, Sun 2-5pm. Free Wed/Sun 2-5pm. 01495 752036.

Figure Four Long-term show of works by four local artists: Mary James, Louella Gwillim, Kay Lawrence and Tony Tribe. Works on show include life studies, landscapes, sketches and sketchbooks, water colours, interior views and portraits.

(Until Mon 26 Oct) Boundary Art 3 Sovereign Quay, Havannah Street, Cardiff.

Tue-Sun 10am-5pm. 029 2048 9869 / www. boundaryart.com Communication & Innovation A selection of artworks by celebrated British and Chinese artists: Ping Gang Cheng, Emma Cownie, Paul Lewis, Amy Olds, Jan Phethean Jon Prothero, David Stanley, Wil Stewart, Fran Williams and Lorna Wilson.

(Throughout April) Butetown History & Arts Centre 4/5 Dock Chambers, Bute St, Cardiff Bay. Tue-Fri 10am-5pm, Sat & Sun 11am-4.30pm. Free. 029 2025 6757 / www.bhac.org Women’s Arts Open Exhibition Celebrating International Women’s Day 2015, women are invited to submit one piece of 2D or 3D work by Wed 4 Mar. If it sells while shown here, the Centre gets 30% and you get the rest. (Until Sun 5 Apr) Cardiff Story The Hayes, Cardiff. MonSat 10am-5pm, Sun 10am-4pm. Free. 029 2078 8334 / museum@ cardiff.gov.uk Children’s Literature Festival Exhibition Multimedia showcase relating to the Children’s Literature Festival which took place in various Cardiff venues, including this one, on the last weekend of March. (Until Sat 11 Apr) Carnegie House Wyndham Street, Bridgend. 9.30am-4pm.

Free. 01656 815757 / bridgend.tc@bridgend. gov.uk Threads From Bridgend Textile work from four south Wales based designers and artists – Alice Coppock, Alison mger, fran Davies

and Sarah Morley – featuring a range of media and techniques. A workshop will be held alongside the exhibition to create embroidery hoop art that will be curated into a display in the town centre. (Until Sun 4 Apr) Chapter Gallery Chapter Arts Centre, Market Rd, Canton, Cardiff. Tue, Wed, Sat + Sun 12-6pm; Thurs + Fri 12-8pm. Free. 029 2030 4400 / www. chapter.org Richard Woods ‘Inclosure Acts’ Well known for his innovative architectural reinventions, for this commission Woods has created new works in the Gallery and for the lightbox inspired

by Chapter’s history (sited on a former cattle market) and by the Inclosure Acts of 1604-1914, which transformed open fields and common land. (From Fri 10 Apr until Sun 14 June) Corys’ Pop-Up Gallery Corys’ Buildings, 57 Bute Street, Cardiff Bay. TueSat 11am-4pm. Free. 029 2045 4667 / kasprou@ europeanestates.org John Kiki Retrospective of Kiki’s work dating from 1968, when the Royal Academy honoured him with a one-man show at their new gallery. This, meanwhile, is the debut show at Corys’, located in a building near to where Kiki had a studio in the mid-80s.

(Until Thurs 9 Apr) Craft In The Bay The Flourish, Lloyd George Avenue, Cardiff.

Mon-Sun 10.30am5.30pm. Free. 029 2048 4611.

Alan Perry West Walesbased artist and blacksmith specialising in making ironwork of contemporary design, while utilising many of the traditional hot forged techniques. (Until Mon 4 May) Tilleke Schwarz Internationally recognised embroidery artist from the Netherlands whose work shows a mixture of contemporary influences including graffiti, icons, text and traditional imagery.

Her work often has a narrative element. (Until Sun 10 May) Mari Thomas Members’ Showcase from Guild member and jeweller. (Until Sun 10 May) Hand Held: Hand Made A display of medals which have been made by Second Year students studying on the Artist Designer: Maker course at Cardiff School Of Art and Design, Cardiff Metropolitan University..

(Until Sun 10 May) Dylan Thomas Centre Somerset Place, Swansea.

Daily 10am-4pm. Free.

01792 463980 / dylanthomas.lit@ swansea.gov.uk / www. dylanthomas.com

art Love The Words Ongoing, permanent exhibition dedicated to Dylan Thomas, with lots of interactive features and voiceovers from people including Prince Charles and Richard Burton.

Elysium Gallery 16 College Street, Swansea. Wed-Sat 12-5pm. Free. www. elysiumgallery.com Michelle Dawson ‘Praxis’ Swansea based artist whose work explores personal interactions with ritual objects and sacred places. Dawson works in an intuitive way with a process of binding and stitching, coating with wax and paint, hanging with yarns and weaving with willow and branches. (From Fri 10 Apr until Sat 2 May) Ffotogallery At Turner House Plymouth Road, Penarth, nr Cardiff. Tue-Sat 11am5pm. Free. 029 2034 1667 / www.ffotogallery.org Corinne Silva ‘Garden State’ Silva uses photographic and sound installations to examine how gardens and planting are fertile terrain for ideological struggle and the colonisation of territory – in this case, how the Israeli state uses tactical landscaping to exert control over the Occupied Palestinian Territories. (Until Sat 2 May) Fountain Fine Art 6-8 Morgan Arcade, Cardiff. Tue-Sat 10.30am5pm. Free. www. fountainfineart.com * Henri Matisse Yes, that one. For the first time in Cardiff, 59 original Matisse lithographs dating back to the 1940s. For sale from £350-£4,500, which I would describe as almost... affordable? (Until Sat 18 Apr) Andrew McCutcheon Solo exhibition of new abstract paintings from this Carmarthenshire-based painter. (From Sat 25 Apr until Sat 16 May) Fountain Fine Art Rhosmaen Street, Llandeilo, Carmarthenshire. MonSat 10.30am-5pm. Free. www.fountainfineart.com Spring Group Show Mixed exhibition from artists including Ceri Richards, Donald McIntyre, Gareth Thomas, Martin Llewellyn, Karen Pearce and Wendy Murphy. (Throughout April) Futures Gallery Pierhead Building, Cardiff Bay. Daily 10.30am-4pm.

Free. 0845 010 5500 / www.pierhead.org Whitchurch Camera Club A selection of photographs by members of a club who vary between newcomers and professionals, and who formed in January 2014. (Until Fri 10 Apr) G39 Oxford Street, Roath,

Cardiff. Saturdays 11am5.30pm. Free. 029 2047 3633 / post@g39.org Bedwyr Williams ‘The Starry Messenger’ Exhibition which first showed in 2014, coinciding with the Venice Bienniale, concerning amateur astronomy and the enduring power of hobbyism. Bedwyr Williams is great. (From Sat 11 Apr until Sat 13 June) Y Galeri, Caerffili Lower Ground Floor, The Visit Caerphilly Centre, The Twyn, Caerphilly.

Tue-Sat 10am-5pm. Free.

029 2086 1433 / www. ygaleri.co.uk Bill Swann ‘The Colour Of India’ Exhibition of impressions of travel through West Bengal, Uttah Pradwsh & Rajasthan from Porthmadog glass artist Swann. This gallery is changing its address, and also its name slightly, as of this month. (From Sat 18 Apr until Sat 16 May) Gallery/Ten 23 Windsor Place, Cardiff.

Free. www.gallery-ten. co.uk Seren Morgan Jones ‘Portraits Of Protestors’ A collection of 13 new paintings documenting Welsh suffragists at the beginning of the 20th century. Jones seeks to expand the scope of traditional portraiture, constantly revisiting history and reimagining anew, providing a deserved visual place for Welsh women. (From From Fri 3 Apr until Sat 2 May) Gas Gallery Park Avenue, Aberystwyth. Mon-Sat 11am-5pm. Free. 01974 261279.

Stuart Evans ‘The American Journey’ An installation consisting of eight-foot lino prints, etchings and drift wood ladders, inspired by a trip made in 2011 when Evans travelled with his family from New Mexico to San Francisco. (Until Wed 25 Apr) Jenny Williamson ‘From Santa Fe To San Francisco’ Exhibition based on the same journey as Evans’ – he and Williamson are married – but focusing on aspects of human rights abuses which have occurred in that region. (Until Wed 25 Apr) Jess Allen ‘Drop In The Ocean’ Including an installation of the splitscreen film Dropped In The Ocean; a room populated with bottles washed up on local shores and collected by Aberystwyth Beach Buddies; and an installation of the ongoing series Ffynhonnell:Source

by Jane Lloyd Francis..

(Until Wed 25 Apr) The Gate Keppoch Street, Roath, Cardiff. Mon-Sat 10am9pm. Free. 029 2048 3344 / info@thegate.org.uk

Kate Alizadeh & Katherine Holmes ‘Stories That We Tell’ An exhibition that studies individual stories through the power of illustration and painting. Each artist shares stories through the simplicity of colour and design, ranging from large canvas paintings to small art prints. (Until Fri 10 Apr) Grand Pavilion The Esplanade, Porthcawl.

Mon-Fri 9.30am-5pm, Sat 10am-5pm. Free. 01656 815995 / www. grandpavilion.co.uk Trinity Art Group The group have been working together for nine years (it says here) and have had successful exhibitions in a variety of locations. (Until Sun 10 May) King Street Gallery 33 King Street, Carmarthen. Free. 01267 220121 / gallery@kingstreetgallery.co.uk Carmarthen Life Drawing Group Formed in 2010 to enable residents within the county to share the cost and facilities required to study and work from life models, this group’s members include illustrators, printers, ceramicists, stained glass artists and art teachers.

(From Sat 4 until Thurs 16 Apr) Turning Points The second exhibition from second year Fine Art students at Carmarthen School Of Art comes in two parts, with each week long exhibition showcasing the work of nine of the eighteen artists involved. (From Fri 24 Apr until Thurs 7 May; closed on Thurs 30 Apr for changeover) Kooywood Gallery 8 Museum Place, Cardiff.

Tue-Sat 10.30am-6pm.

Free. 029 2023 5093 / www.kooywoodgallery. com Carl Melegar This Bristolbased artist’s approach to painting explores both the human form and the urban landscape. Melegari primarily focuses on the semi-abstraction within the figure and has become increasingly fascinated by the versatility of oil paint.

(Until Sat 18 Apr) Llantarnam Grange Arts Centre St. David’s Rd, Cwmbran, Torfaen. Mon-Sat 10am5pm. Free. 01633 483321 / www.lgac.org.uk John Selay ‘Trans Iberia’ Retrospective exhibition looking at at this esteemed painter’s 50 years depecting the Peninsula. Selway was part of a generation at the Royal College of Art that included David Hockney, Alan Jones, and Barry Bates (Until Sat 9 May) Sue Binns Craft showcase.

Binns’ inspiration comes from Mediterranean pot-

tery, Japanese fabrics and ceramics but mainly from 1950s Rye Pottery.

(Until Sat 9 May) Jelka Quintelier By fusing jewellery and product design, fashion and illustration Jelka Quintelier work’s questions adornment, wearability and how we relate to objects and materials.

(Until Sat 9 May) M.A.D.E. Gallery 41 Lochaber St, Cardiff.

Free. 029 2047 3373.

Pip Barrett & Taylor Zepeda ‘Chemical Wedding’ Zepeda, from California, creates objects which present a false or futile attempt at transcendence. Barrett’s painted works are humourous and naive, masking a more complex dialogue with selfanxiety. (Until Wed 18 Apr) Martin Tinney Gallery 18 St Andrew’s Crescent, Cardiff. Mon-Fri 10am6pm, Sat 10am-5pm.

Free. 029 2064 1411 / mtg@artwales.com Sally Moore ‘Creature Comforts’ Barry-born painter who has been winning awards for her intricate style, depicting dramatic and intriguing stories of everyday life, since the 1990s; her exhibitions are infrequent (this one contains 18 new paintings) but a rarer treat for this.

(From Wed 15 Apr until Sat 9 May) Mission Gallery Gloucester Place, Swansea. Tue-Sun 11am5pm. Free. 01792 652016 / www.missiongallery. co.uk Julie Arkell ‘Away’ Ruthin Craft Centre exhibition featuring Arkell’s ompelling, naïve handbuilt papier mache people and creatures. (Until Sun 12) Paul Emmanuel & Craig Wood ‘Right Now!’ Exhibition which brings together again a group of Goldsmith’s graduates who, in 1988, presented a show titled Current at the Mission Gallery. (From Sat 25 Apr until Sun 7 June) MOMA Wales Y Tabernacl, Heol Penrallt, Machynlleth.

Mon-Sat 10am-4pm. Free.

01654 703355 / info@ momawales.org.uk John Charlesworth ‘Last Ian Phillips ‘New Views Of Old Hills’ Well known for his extraordinary lino prints, here Phillips presents new work with some new ideas and techniques, depicting the subtleties of wearher and the cchapterhanging seasons in the Welsh hills. (Until Sat 11 Apr) Professor Ovendale: Gift Collection Ritchie Ovendale was Professor of International Politics at the University of Wales, Aberystwyth. Displayed here are selected works from his generous gift. (Until Sun 18 Apr) William Morris

‘Over The Hills And Far Away’ This exhibition is to mark Morris’ visit to Machynlleth 140 years ago and reflect on the contin-

19 Apr) Maurice Marinot ‘A Passion For Glass’ French sculptor Marinot (1882-1960) was a pioneer in the development of

The Abacus, a more than respect-worthy art space set up last year in unused office space near Cardiff Central station, has an exhibition called Look! No Hands! from Fri 10 until Sun 26 Apr. Artworks will be selected from submissions, with the gallery itself talking of psychedelia, hallucinations, dreamstates and suchlike. On Fri 10, it launches with a gig headlined by noisy collective Sly & The Family Drone. ued popularity of Morris’ designs. Curated by Jane Dew. (Until Sat 18 Apr) 30 British Portraits This venue’s 30th anniversary is marked with 30 portraits

by British artists.. (Until Sat 25 Apr) David Nash RA Inaugural exhibition in the new Sculpture Space, featuring the work of one of the leading sculptors in British art today. Much of his work is made out of unseasoned wood.

(Until Sat 25 Apr) Kyffin Williams ‘Patagonia’ Marking 150 years since the Welsh people first went to Patagonia, this also celebrates Williams’ long support of MOMA Wales and features his paintings depicting the region on his visit there in 1968. (Until Sat 9 May) National Botanic Garden Of Wales Llanarthne, Carmarthenshire. Daily 10am-6pm. £8.50/£7 OAP/£4.50 kids/free under-5s. 01558 668768.

Barcode Sculpture Located outdoors here, new work from nine artists from Sculpture Cymru. Each has made a response to the DNA barcode research by the Garden’s Head of Science & Research Dr. Natasha De Vere. (Until September) National Museum & Gallery Cathays Park, Cardiff.

Tue-Sun 10am-5pm. Free except where noted. 029 2057 3500 / www. museumwales.ac.uk/ cardiff Historic Photography Uncovered Exhibition traces the evolution of photography, as a scientific process, as a social record and a medium for artistic expression, looking at the pioneering work of the Dillwyn Llewelyn family in the 19th century. (Until Sun

glass as a studio art form.

This exhibition will bring together 44 pieces of glass from various collections, including this museum’s own. (Until Sun 7 June) Cedric Morris Portraits A small display bringing together some of the extraordinary portraits by Morris (1889-1982) in the collection. (Until Sun 28 June) Fragile? Exploring the artistic and expressive possibilities of ceramic as a material, including the contradiction between two of its inherent qualities – durability and fragility.

Includes various keys works from this museum, plus installations commissioned from Phoebe Cummings, Clare Twomey and Keith Harrison. (From Sat 18 Apr until Sun 4 Oct) National Waterfront Museum Oystermouth Road, Maritime Quarter, Swansea. Daily 10am5pm. Free. 01792 638950.

Adriano Candelori Italian-born, Llanelli-based sculptor is honoured with a retrospective exhibition which will focus on the two series of Craftsman At work which he produced mainly in terracotta. (Until Sun 12 July) Sandfields: A Community Built On Steel A history of the Sandfields estate in Port Talbot, built to house the growing workforce of the steelworks. A collaborative project between pupils from Sandfields Comprehensive School, Swansea University, West Glamorgan Archive Service and the Museum.

(From Sat 4 Apr until Sun 14 June) Newport Museum & Art Gallery John Frost Square, Newport.Tue-Fri 9.30am5.30pm, Sat 9.30am-4pm.

Free. 01633 656656 / museum@newport.

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art gov.uk Feibusch’s Figures Preliminary drawings for a series of murals which Newport Council commissioned Feibusch to paint in Newport Civic Centre in 1960. Featuring 12 panels depicting the development of Newport, the council has so far resisted the urge to destroy them, which is nice.

(Until Sat 30 May) Norwegian Church Arts Centre Harbour Drive, Cardiff Bay. Daily 11am-4pm.

Free. 029 2087 7959 / www. norwegianchurchcardiff. com F22 Another showing in

1-4.30pm, Sat 10.30am4.30pm. 029 2066 6455 / www. orielcanfas.co.uk Adrian Paul Metcalfe ‘Isles Of Illusion’ Internationally-exhibited Welsh artist presents new works in oil, watercolour, acrylic and digital print. It explores the “mystery and fascination that islands have always held in human imagination”. (Until Sun 18 Apr) Oriel Davies The Park, Newtown, Powys. Mon-Sat 10am5.30pm. Free. 01686 625041 / enquiries@ orieldavies.org Craig Wood ‘Dear

The Wyndcliffe Court Sculpture Gardens are a delightful collection of... gardens in St. Arvans, near Chepstow. The sculptures in question change throughout the year according to the seasons, and highlight the talents of local sculptors. Fri 3 Apr sees the launch of their spring collection of 3D works, with featured artists including Philippa Macarthur, Martin Duffy, Joe Szabo and MissFire. this gallery for the photo work of Mike and Dave, who “met through a joint love... of photography whilst studying at the University of Luton”. The ellipsis is there to give the fleeting impression that they’re sexual partners, as a joke, because they’re not. (Until Sun 12 Apr) Lucy Nicholls ‘Thinking Out Loud’ Debut photography exhibition from Cardiff-based student. It “lets the viewer see nature the way Lucy feels it is intended to be seen,” say the venue. (From Mon 27 Apr until Sun 3 May) Rhiannon Roberts ‘Magical Cardiff Bay’ Original watercolour paintings and acrylic canvases showing Cardiff’s character.

(From Mon 27 Apr until Sun 3 May) Off The Wall The Old Probate Registry, Cardiff Road, Llandaff, Cardiff. Tue-Fri 9.30am5.30pm, Sat 10am-4pm.

Free. 029 2055 4469 / art@galleryoffthewall. com Make It Happen Exhibition honouring International Women’s Day, which was in March; features work by artists such as Helen Lush, Jane Price, Anita Raymond and Louise Collis. (Throughout April) Oriel Canfas Glamorgan Street, Canton, Cardiff. Tue-Fri BUZZ 58

Olivia...’ New works which range from large-scale sculptural installation and video projection to delicate paper necklaces and painted maps, and address issues of nationalism, the individual and shifting power. (Until Wed 13 May) Sterly & Snell ‘Sounds Books’ Exploring the book as an object and the way it engages the senses. “Crack the spine. Strum the pages.

Play the fragments of memories,” urge the artist duo.

(Until Wed 13 May) Oriel Joanna Field Torch Theatre, St. Peter’s Road, Milford Haven.

Free. 01646 695267 / www.torchtheatre.co.uk Ann Gregson ‘Darkness And Light’ Tenby painter who expresses her delight in the sea and the landscape around her through her use of acrylic and gouache paints, and other media.

(From Thurs 2 Apr until Sat 2 May) Oriel Mwldan Bath House Rd, Cardigan.

Mon-Sat 10am-8pm. Free.

01239 621200 / siobhan@ mwldan.co.uk Cherry Pickles Selfportraits which incorporate roleplay, Pickles posing as writers including Thomas and Burroughs, and calling to attention such popular perceptions as the heroic stature of the male artist.

(Until Sat 16 May)

Oriel Myrddin Church Lane, Carmarthen. 01267 222775 / www. orielmyrddingallery.co.uk Angharad Pearce Jones ‘The Pram In The Hall’ Installation which takes up the whole of the gallery and is made out of steel. Into the idea of this! (Until Sat 25 Apr) Oriel Q The Queens Hall, High Street, Narberth. Wed-Sat 10am-5pm. Free. 01834 869454 / www. orielqueenshallgallery. org.uk Aberystwyth Printmakers Exhibition celebrating the 10th anniversary of said group. Oriel Fach: Michael Freeman, The Stations Of The Cross (paintings). Main gallery 3D area: assorted ceramics and jewellery by students and well-known artists.

(Until Sat 25 Apr) Oriel Y Bont University Of South Wales, Pontypridd. MonThurs 8.30am-5.30pm, Fri 8.30am-5pm. Free.

01443 480480 / www.gallery.southwales.ac.uk Valerie Coffin Price & Philip Gross ‘The River Next Door’ Collaborative exhibition of contemporary artwork by artist Price, with words by award-winning poet Gross, in response to the Taff Valley – accompanied by their new book published by Seren. (Until Fri 15 May; closed on Fri 3, Mon 6, Tue 7 Apr and Sun 4 May) Penarth Pier Pavilion The Esplanade, Penarth.

Tues-Sat 10am-5pm. Free.

029 2071 2100 / info@ penarthpavilion.co.uk Staring At The Sea: Contemporary Painting From Wales An eclectic group exhibition of some of South Wales’ most innovative painters. (Until Thurs 23 Apr) Penarth Art Fair Inaugural event aimed at local galleries, collectives and artists allowing them to sell work directly to the public and showcase their artists. See Art for more.

(From Fri 17 until Sun 19 Apr) Penarth And The Barbarians Exhibition celebrating the 125th anniversary of the formation of Barbarians Football Club in 1890. (From Mon 27 Apr until Sun 17 May) Redhouse Old Town Hall, High Street, Merthyr Tydfil.

Free. 01685 384111 / info@redhousecymru. com The Merthyr Tydfil Project Results of a series of woodcarving workshops held throughout summer last year, led by Sharon Littley and working on a collaborative piece relating to iconic images of Merthyr.

(Until Wed 8 Apr) The Riverfront Bristol Packet Wharf,

Newport. Mon-Sat 10am8pm, Sun 10am-6pm.

Free. 01633 656757.

Diverse Manners Arts Group ‘Beneath The Surface’ “The superficial surface of two dimensional artwork is often composed of multiple layers, and the viewer adds new perspectives and interpretations,” say the group by way of a description. (From Wed 8 until Thurs 23 Apr) University Of South Wales Art Psychotherapy Exhibition The end of year exhibition for first and second year Art Psychotherapy students from said university. (From Mon 27 Apr until Mon 11 May) SHO Gallery 14 Inverness Place, Cardiff. Free. www.thesho. co.uk / info@thesho.co.uk Spike Dennis ‘NSFW’ Interactive hand-embroidered objects and short films featuring Spike’s glove puppets. The title refers to the fact that some of the content is both rude and raunchy, so if you have kids or vicars in tow, beware.

(Until Sat 4 Apr) Barrie J Davies ‘I Just Stepped Through A Rainbow’ Solo show by local artist Davies, exhibiting his latest collection of “fun, new, exciting, pop, gone wrong, surrealist paintings”. See Art for more. (From Fri 17 until Thurs 23 Apr) Steak Of The Art Churchill Way, Cardiff.

Mon-Sat 11am-11pm, Sun 11am-9pm. 029 2039 7284 / www.steakoftheart. co.uk Peter Longden Work by a well known kids’ book author, who has drawn characters such as Bugs Bunny, Noddy, Charlie Chalk and Postman Pat for numerous books. There’ll be 30 pieces of work in total, all for sale. (Until Fri 17 Apr) Swansea Grand Theatre Singleton St, Swansea.

Mon-Sat 10am-5pm. Free.

01792 475715 / www. swanseagrand.co.uk Blue Orchard Paintings New work by Sue Mann, Hillary Bryanston, Bruce Risdon, Tim Grant, Phil Jacobs and more. (Until Sat 25 Apr) Wilf Box Photographic work. (Until Sat 25 Apr) Dod Yn Contemporary jewellery, ceramics and fine art from Carmarthen School Of Art’s second year degree students. (From Mon 20 until Sat 25 Apr) University Of Wales, Trinity Saint David, Swansea Showcasing work from the Graphic Design, Illustration and Surface Pattern Design and Textiles courses. (From Tue 28 Apr until Fri 29 May) Swansea Museum Victoria Road, The Maritime Quarter, Swansea. Tue-Sun 10am-

5pm. Free. 01792 653763 / www.swanseamuseum. co.uk Rhiannon’s Legacy – for The Love of Horses Exhibition reflecting the close relationship that has developed between horse and human over 5,000 years, how the horse has shaped civilisation, and the local legacy of partnerships with the horse which survive today. (Until Sun 21 June) Taliesin Arts Centre Singleton Park, Swansea.

Mon-Fri 10am-6pm, Sat 12pm-6pm and performance evenings 6pm-8.15pm. Free. 01792 295526 / www. taliesinartscentre.co.uk Warren Heaton ‘Whatever The Weather’ Large-scale paintings of scenery along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, completed on site in all conditions. (Until Thurs 2 Apr) Tenby Museum & Art Gallery Castle Hill, Tenby. MonSat 10am-5pm, £4/£3/£2 kids. 01834 842809 / www.tenbymuseum. org.uk Connected Threads Featuring textile work from Laura Thomas, Julia Griffiths-Jones, Ann Sutton, Debbie Smyth and Sian O'Doherty. (Until Sat 17 May) Theatr Hafren Llanidloes Road, Newtown, Powys. MonSat 10am-5.30pm. Free.

01686 625007 / boxoffice@theatrhafren. co.uk TACT Showcasing the artistic talent of young people in Wales who are in the care of TACT foster carers. This project began in 2011, when a TACT staff member started up a small arts group in Mid Wales and invited young people in care to join and express themselves through painting and drawing. (Until Sun 10 May) Tower Gallery Oriel Y Parc Landscape Gallery & Visitor Centre, The Grove, St Davids, Pembrokeshire. Free.

01437 720392 / info@ orielyparc.co.uk Rhys & Janet Daniel ‘Tir/Land: A Celebration Of Pembrokeshire’ Rhys studied art in Cardiff and Swansea, and has exhibited in Britain and abroad. Janet has written poetry, short stories, travel, memoir, plays and a book about the year spent working in the Shetland Isles. Here, they’ve produced artwork and poetry inspired by the land and issues they feel passionate about. (Until Sat 30 May) Velindre Hospital Whitchurch, Cardiff. Open 24/7. Free. 029 2075 2251.

South Wales Art Society – Permanent Rolling Exhibition Members’

works are available to view in the corridors and restaurant of the hospital at any given time. 20% of all sales go to the hospital.

Victoria Fearn Gallery 6B Heol y Deri, Rhiwbina, Cardiff. Mon-Sat 9.30am5.30pm, Sun 10am-3pm.

Free. 029 2052 0884.

Spring Is In The Air A mixed exhibition with the theme of, hold on to your hats, spring. (Until Sat 18 Apr) Lizzie Spikes Debut solo exhibition by an artist who paints mostly on driftwood. (Until Sat 30 May) Wales Millennium Centre Bute Place, Cardiff Bay. Free. 029 2063 6464 / www.wmc.org.uk Illumination An exhibition of artwork and creative writing from prisons, secure hospitals, and by people on probation in Wales. Curated by women from Gibran UK, an organisation that supports ex-offenders across Wales. (Until Mon 13 Apr) West Wharf Gallery Jacobs Market, Cardiff.

Thurs-Sat 10am-5pm.

Free. westwharfgallery@ gmail.com Richard Cox, Peter Ellis & Heather Parnell Works on paper by three respected artists who all moved to Wales from elsewhere. (From Thurs 2 Apr until Sat 2 May) Cardiff Metropolitan University Photographic Practice Students Pictures from up and coming photographers, based on individual interpretations of the Pictorialist movement of photography.

(From Wed 29 Apr until Sun 3 May) The Winding House Cross Street, New Tredegar, Caerphilly.

Tue-Sun 10am-5pm. Free.

01443 822666 / windinghouse@caerphilly.gov.uk Our Duty To Bear: The First World War And Caerphilly County Borough Exhibition exploring how WWI affected men, women and children in this area. It will explore the impact of the war on the local area through objects, images, film and sound.

(Until summer TBC) Wyndcliffe Court Sculpture Gardens Off Penterry Lane, St. Arvans, Chepstow. Wed, Sat + Sun 11am-6pm.

Free (charity donations welcomed). 01291 621242 / www.wyndcliffecourt. co.uk Spring Sculpture Show Talented local sculptors including Philippa MacArthur, Miranda Michels and Martin Duffy; new artists’ work including Joe Szabo, Andrew Findlay and MissFire. (From Fri 3 Apr until Sun 27 Sept)

clubs

clubs 10 Feet Tall 11a + 12 Church Street, Cardiff. 029 2022 8883 / thisis10feettall@yahoo. co.uk Sat 18 Record Store Day 2015 All Vinyl & Live Music Party 6pm-2am, free. Don Leisure, Enzine and Turntable Tim play soul, funk, disco, hip-hop and breaks, plus there are live bands upstairs (see the Live Music listings).

Room 112 (formerly 411 Bar) 3-6 St Mary Street, Cardiff. Open Thurs 9pm3am, Fri + Sat 10pm4am. 029 2066 7996 / www.room112.net Fridays Bedrock 9pm4am, £10/£5 before 12.

R’n’b, hip-hop and dancehall. Sat 4 + 18 Pillow Talk 9pm-4am, £10. Sat 4 features a set from DJ Orange, who the flyer trumpets as being Houston’s finest r’n’b female DJ. Sat 11 Sugar & Spice/ Ciroc Party 9pm-4am, £10. Sun 5 Bank Holiday Old Skool UKG Sessions 10pm-4am, £10. Hosted by DJ Spoony, who hopefully won’t be phoning it in. Get

it?!?! (He used to do a phonein show on 5 Live.)

Blind Tiger 50 Cambrian Road, Newport. 01633 213161.

Wednesdays Meze Rocks/Pounded Wednesdays Alternative bangers and underground sounds will continue to be the order of the day in this night’s temporary home while the Meze Lounge has a lick of paint (the Friday and Saturday nights below are also imported from there). Saturdays Crash!

Indie, new music anthems, and alternative hits.

Buffalo 11 Windsor Place, Cardiff.

Open Mon-Thurs 11am3am, Fri + Sat 11am4am, Sun until 4am. 029 2031 0312 / www.buffalocardiff.com Mondays Bump & Grind 10pm-3am, £4/£3 before 11.30. 90s r’n’b/ hip-hop night, which recently relocated to here from Undertone. Thurs 9 Paranoize 10pm-4am, £5 adv/£3 early bird. Dirty basslines and wobbling dancefloors promised here, from these DJs: Deadbeat UK, Dr-Cryptic, Dubzta, Benny H b2b Woo Haa, Blockeye b2b Slaughter, Batesy and host MCs XL and Local. Fri 3 Aperture 10pm-4am, £5 early bird.

Featuring Break, Boston

ft. Solis, Turntable Tim, Mikey-Ro, Rogue and hosts Reuben and XL. *Fri 24 Boulevard 10pm-4am.

Bristolian juke-into-dubstep (I say that, not sure what he’s playing nowadays) dude Addison Groove returns to Cardiff. More of the lineup TBC. Saturdays Shake Shake 9pm-4am, £4/free before 12. “Cocktail makin’ basslibe quakin’ booty shakin’ best credible Saturday night party!” Their words. *Sat 18 Memorex 10pm-4am, £10/£5 early bird. Nice booking from Memorex, in Buffalo for the first time: Leon Vynehall (in Cardiff for the second time, I think) with a three-hour set alongside Youandewan, The Organ Grinder, Scott Kerr, Sinky and JV. Cardiff University Students Union Park Place, Cardiff. All listings apply to term time only. 029 2078 1458 / studentsunion@cardiff. ac.uk Wednesdays YOLO 9pm2am, £4/£3 adv/free before 11. New midweek club night promising both your favourite tunes and great offers.

Good name, really on trend.

Fri 1 May Treatment 9pm-4am, £17-£27. With a large lineup of dance champs. Main room: Dusky, Waze & Odyssey, Paleman and SG Lewis. Side room:

LEON VYNEHALL + YOUANDEWAN Memorex @ Buffalo, Cardiff, Sat 18 Apr Tickets: £10. Info: 029 2031 0312 / www.buffalocardiff.co.uk This month, Memorex celebrate three years of bringing quality house music to Cardiff with a brace of parties. The first one is on Sun 5 Apr, in the basement of the CF24 Project in Cathays, and the second one is here in Buffalo. Leon Vynehall hails from Brighton and has been making waves since 2012 with a sound you could glibly call deep house, but impulsively spans most of the pantheon of good-time dance music. He gets extra kudos (from me) for namechecking Ash Marlowe, drummer of the band Charlottefield, as one of his early inspirations. Meanwhile, Youandewan [pictured] lives in Berlin and has seen his sinewy, cerebral house jams released by labels such as Hypercolour, Aus and Secretsundaze, which you’ll recognise as trademarks of quality if this is your ‘bag’.

Lunacy, Preditah, NYTA, Klose One and Woo & Comfort. Back room: MTA, TCTS, Kokiri, Fono and Signature DJs. Saturdays Flux 9pm-2am, £5/£4 NUS. Chart, dance and pop.

Cellar Door Cardiff city centre venue TBC. 07977 131320 / cellardoorcardiff@hotmail.co.uk Sun 3 May Cellar Door 10pm-4am, £10 adv. No longer in the Vaults down the bay (see Music News Extra for [slightly] more on that), local house and techno favourites have found a new 1,000-capacity venue in town somewhere. You’ll have to wait until the day to find out where though.

Mysterious! Undercover DJs will take control of your bank holiday.

CF24 Project 8-10 Crwys Road, Cardiff.

029 2115 9063 / www. cf24project.com Sun 5 Memorex 10pm, £3-£5. Held in this new venue’s basement, which has a capacity of 150, house and techno will be on the menu courtesy of Haematoma, The Organ Grinder, Scott Kerr, Sinky and JV. Club Oxygen 1 Northampton Lane, Swansea. 0844 8849171 / www.globaloxygen.co.uk Fridays Dance Anthems 11pm-6am, from £5. House and commercial music all night from Big Al, Nicky G, 3 Bird, Jordan Steins, LJ Isaac and Tom Chizzy.

Fri 1 May Society 10pm.

Hardstyle, hard trance and other stuff that one day I will admit is better than the shit music I listen to.

Lineup TBC. Saturdays 10pm-6am. Room 1: ED, progressive, big room, electro, deep and house. Room 2: r’n’b, bassline, garage and hip-hop. Plus big name guests TBC. Sat 14 is a Valentine’s special. Sun 5 Escape Into The Mix 10pm-6am, £10. Escape the club might be dead but Escape the brand is NOT. Tonight, for example, they’ll be seeing in the Bank Holiday with sets from Danny Slade, Big Al, Gareth Siddell, Jonny Griffiths, Rob Davies and Rhys Williams (room 1) and CN Williams, Martin Dibble, Ben Parkin, Lloyd Scoulding, Nicky G and Lanos (room 2).

Clwb Ifor Bach Womanby St, Cardiff. 029 2023 2199 / www.clwb.net Thurs 2 Brooklyn Zoo 10.30pm-4am, £3. New and classic hip-hop mixed

by Patrick Nazemi of Ramshackle, Ibiza Rocks and other indie things.

Thurs 30 Twrw 10.30pm2am, £2. DJs Elan and Mari play all kinds of Welsh language music. Fridays (bottom) Xerox 10.30pm3am, £4/£3 NUS. A “party jukebox” night. With DJs, though, not an actual jukebox. Fri 24 Hitched 10.30pm-4am, £3. Cardiff’s

only wedding disco, they say. “Leave your gifts on the table and vibe on the floor,” they add. Bit unhygienic.

Saturdays 10pm-4am, £5/£4 NUS. Three floors of fun: The Vinyl Vendettas’ top floor resident indie shindig; Dirty Pop and Mr Potter's proper disco. Sun 5 Lamerica 10pm-4am, £13.50 adv. Featuring Paul Trouble Anderson, Graeme Park, Ooft!, Chris Massey, Craig Bartlett, Dave Mills, Gareth Hopkins, Darren Stewart and Silver, across two rooms.

Courtyard 48 Cambrian Road, Newport. 01633 213161.

Wednesdays Wild Wednesdays Upfront dance anthems and “Urban Vibes”. Fridays The Kickstart A selection of r’n’b and dancehall.

Saturdays Mischief Beat-driven anthems is the ambiguous description for tonight’s music policy.

Sundays The Sunday Sessions Upfront urban sounds from Courtyard residents.

DC / Maddison 71-74 St Mary Street, Cardiff. 029 2039 9399 / www. maddisondc.com Fridays Smack. 10pm3am, £5/£4 before 10.30.

Hit student night, helmed by residents Lawrence Jones and Mozafari, with all the associated zany activities and modern floorfillers that the clientele love. Saturdays 9pm-5am, £5. Dance anthems from various special guests and residents.

Dempseys Castle Street, Cardiff. 029 2023 9253.

Thursdays (downstairs) Twisted By Design 9.30pm-2am, free. Weekly night along the lines of the Saturday lineups. Fridays (downstairs) Blah Blah Blah 10pm-3am, free.

Gary Twisted offers up Motown, indie, rock’n’roll, reggae and “no cheesy pop”.

Saturdays 9pm-3am, free.

Rock’n’roll, funk, soul, party tunes yadda yadda, selected

by Chris PJ Martin. Sat 18 Fabulous 9pm-2am, £4.

Mod, ska, reggae, indie, R&B, funk, boogaloo and northern soul, running here for the mods since the 90s. Sat 25 Twisted By Design 9pm-2am, £3.50/£3 NUS. Monthly event with Gary playing the best in indie choons – Belle & Sebastian, Bowie, Cure, Dead Kennedys, summat like that.

Fiction & Myu Little Wind Street, Swansea. 01792 828777 / www.fictionclub.co.uk Sun 5 808 10pm-5am, £10 adv. Secondcity headline this new night, a spinoff name from the Escape ‘brand’. Marc Vedo, Overwrite, Antwon and NTM also feature in the main room. Room 2 is TBC.

Fuel 5 Womanby Street, Cardiff. 0845 6430032 / www.givemefuel.co.uk Thursdays FUBAR 10pm-2am. Rock, metal and alternative clubnight.

Fridays + Saturdays Rock and metal anthems each weekend, plus special guests when such types are in town.

The Full Moon / The Moon Club Womanby Street, Cardiff.

029 2037 3022 / info@ thefullmooncardiff.com Thursdays Hullabalooza 10pm-4am, free. Three rooms of alternative party tunes. Fri 3 Ultimate Power 10pm-4am, £4 adv.

Power ballads-themed club night. Saturdays Five Dollar Shake Free. DJ Puddlefunk with bebop, funk, soul, Motown, hip-hop, reggae, ska and everything in between. Sat 4 Back To Basskicks 10pm-3am, £5. Jman & Pete Cannon are tonight’s guests.

Sat 11 The Holdup 8pm, £7/£5 before 10. Launch of a new hip-hop night featuring Skinnyman and The Hellionz, plus many more.

Sat 25 MOVE 11pm-4am, £3 before 12. An old skool rave with all new sounds, they say.

Glam Greyfriars Road, Cardiff.

029 2022 9311 / info@ glamnightclub.co.uk Mondays The Fest 10pm-3am, £3.50. Two floors of charts, dance and student anthems (room one) and r’n’b, hip-hop, urban and funky (room two). Wednesdays HUMP 10pm-3am, £3.50. This is billed as the most outrageous night ever to come to Cardiff, which they will achieve via drinking games and celeb DJ sets.

Thursdays Trend 9pm3am, £4/£3.50. DJs Giggsy, Jordan Valleys, Sole and Willow play chart, indie and student anthems; r’n’b, house and old skool. This has replaced Propaganda I guess. Thurs 2 is a Maundy Thursday special. Fridays Antisocial 9pm-3am. Level 1: r’n’b, hip-hop and mashups from DJ Sole and DJ Pro. Level 2: house, electro, dubstep and drum’n’bass from Ian Davies and DJ Rewire. Saturdays Vanity 9pm-3am, £5-£10. Two rooms of quality music, everyone catered for it is claimed. Sun 5 + Sun 3 May Mayfair Sessions Bank Holiday Special 10pm-3am, £5-£10.

Featuring sets from Max Denham and Darrel Privett in April; hip-hop duo Krept & Konan in May. The Globe 125 Albany Road, Cardiff.

07590 471888 / www. globecardiffmusic.com Fri 17 The Craig Charles Funk & Soul Club 9pm, £14 adv. It’s time for one of these again, and time for me to tell you it’s already BUZZ 59

clubs sold out, as usual. Smoove & Turrell are special guests on this one.

Gwdihw 6 Guildford Crescent, Cardiff. 029 2039 7933 / www.gwdihw.co.uk Fri 3 Sure Shot 9pm, £4. Featuring the funky selections of The Allergies and Mr Soulsbury. Fri 10 Superchango 9pm, £4/£3.

This month it’s an 80s funk and hip-hop special. Fri 17 Tuxedo Junction 9pm, £3. Monthly (more or less) “electroswing speakeasy”.

Fri 24 Pleasure Dome 9pm-2.30am, £5/£3 before 11. Conroy, Deemo and Teoman play the electronic music of the 80s. *Sat 4 + Sun 5 Blue Honey Bank Holiday 9pm-4am, £12-£25 both days; £12/£9 (Sat); £18/£12 (Sun). See Clubs for a bit more on this.

Saturday lineup: Daniel Wang, M.ono and Owain K. Sunday: Mo Kolours and Tenderlonious, both playing live outdoors, plus Wookie and more TBC indoors.

Sat 11 Fat City 9pm, £3.

Soul, Latin, jazz, house, electro, funk and hip-hop.

Free entry for Dim Swn attendees. Sat 18 Péchés Mignons Presents Mise En Bouche 9pm, £3.

Featuring a live set from Kookamunga and DJing from Gidge and Toclifrench.

Sat 25 Hully Gully 9pm, £3. Featuring a guest DJ set from Andy Smith of Portishead.

Jacob’s Market West Canal Wharf, Cardiff. 029 2039 0939. *Fri 24 Teak 10pm-5am, £13.50 adv. This month featuring Germany’s Phillip Lauer, Bristol collective Pardon My French and Seka.

Karma 75 St Mary Street, Cardiff.

Fri + Sat 8pm-6am. karmaclubcardiff@gmail. com Fri 3 Serious Sounds 8pm-6am, £15 adv.

Hardcore, you know the score but maybe not the lineup: Darren Styles & MC Whizzkid, DJ Sy, Alex Prospect & MC Mono, DJ Burn & MC Turbo, Bass Brothers Ft MC Ode, Juvenile v Jack The Lad & MC Shutts, Narcotic Smugglers feat MC Vibe, Konekshon & Fluid MC, Bassline Animals & MC Stevy B, DanVanDam b2b Daniel Overdrive feat MC Gandyman and Rich EB. Fri 17 Wallop! 10.30pm, £8. Old skool and new skool in perfect harmony, thanks to: Easygroove & MC Endo, Scotty & MC Joe Peng, DJ MOD, Bongo b2b Walshy Selecta, Lubi J, Manufakture, D-Reaper, OCDJ and MCs Subzero and Jaydee. Sat 25 Journey 10pm-6am, £10/£7 adv.

The main room has Andrea Ribeca, playing a Nu-NRG Classics set while you ask yourself why his name is two girls’ names. Akira BUZZ 60

Kayosa, Will Rees & Rhys Thomas, Stu Grady, Hywel Matthews, Joe Byrne and Richie Knight will also be in the mix.

Kuku Club Park Plaza Hotel, Greyfriars Road, Cardiff.

Members’ club. 029 2011 1177 / www. kukuclub.co.uk Fridays Kuku is available for private hire on Friday evenings. Get in touch with them via the website if you want to take advantage of this. Saturdays 10pm4am, £5/free members (10pm-1am); £10/£5 members (after 1am). With DJs TBC. Ladybird 41 St Mary St, Cardiff.

029 2066 5500 / info@ ladybirdcardiff.com / www.ladybirdcardiff.com Fridays C-Y-N-T 10pm5am. Student clubbing favourites take up residency in a new venue. Residents: Josh Thomas, Andrew Watkins, Elliot Mitchell, Batesy, Tom Rees, Van

town” and, perhaps more importantly, cheap drinks.

Saturdays 9pm-3am.

Commercial chart music and the best of the 80s and 90s is promised, as are various two for £6/three for £5 drinks offers. Sundays Industry Sundays 9pm4am. Folks in the bar, club and hotel industry can come here after work and party to the selections of DJs Rhys Lewis and DJ George.

The Lemon Factory (formerly The Underground) 37 St Helens Road, Swansea. 07969 671379 / www. lemonfactorybar.co.uk/ Sat 4 Dirtbox 9pm5am, £10. Hard dance tomfoolery, which is also the name of one of the DJs. Andy Whitby, Rob Davies, D-Grove, Tom Foolery, Vishaun & Trampy, Leg3ndz, Zac F, Pesky & Onix, Rhod Morgan, N-Zyme vs TJ and host K-Ner is the full rundown. Sun 5 The

City Bass, promoters of good club music in small Cardiff spaces launch a sort of offshoot night called No Dange (not a typo, folks). It's an effort to lean more towards genres like grime, garage and dubstep, which is what they usually booked when they started out. Hit up Undertone on Sat 11 Apr for a bill headlined by Mr Mitch, who recently released a quality LP of instrumental grime bangers on the Planet Mu label.

Pelt, Highforthis and Gavin Woo. Saturdays Solution 10pm-4am. A night whose flyer has a big photo of a model in her bra and pants. Sundays Sunday Project 7pm-3am, free with guestlist. Free industry night offers floor fillers and house classics.

Laser Station Bridge Wharf, Carmarthen. 01267 235648 / www. laserstationwales.com Sat 11 Justmyday & Friends 7pm-2am, £8/£6 adv. Drum’n’bass, hip-hop and tek party type stuff all mashed together in a laser game venue. Sounds like a recipe for messiness oi oi.

Featuring Mandidextrous & MC DMR, JMD v Justmyday, Hovla, Spit and Sickadelik b2b Audio Autopsy.

Lava Lounge The Old Brewery Quarter, Caroline Street, Cardiff.

029 2038 2313 / www. lavaloungecardiff.co.uk Fridays Circus Circus 9pm-3am. “The best music from the best DJs in

Movement 10pm-5am, £5.

House and techno.

Metros Baker’s Row, Cardiff. 029 2039 9942 / www. metroscardiff.com Wednesdays Cheapskates 9pm-4am, £5. Hywel plays ‘alternative mayhem’ and old skool cheese. Fridays Subversion 9.30pm3.30am, £3 with flyer before 10.30pm. Drinks promos, no dress code. Rock, punk, metal and alternative beats. Saturdays Slacker 9.30pm-3.30am. Wherein Hywel plays alternative and new music.

Meze Lounge Market Street, Newport.

01633 213161.

Fridays Party Hard!

10pm-5am. Party bangers across the spectrum of heavy sounds, courtesy of Aaron Lille and Megatron Tom. Saturdays 10pm5am, £3-£5. Eclectic beats, indie anthems, Latin, hiphop, reggae etc Minskys Show Bar Cathedral Walk, St

David’s Centre, Cardiff.

029 2023 3128 / www. minskysshowbar.com Fridays & Saturdays 8pm-1am. Dancing and cabaret with regular drag acts including Tina Sparkle, Miss Babs and Jolene Dover.

Mocka Lounge Mill Lane, Cardiff. MonSat 11am-late. 029 2022 1295 / www.mockalounge. com Thursdays The Social Affair 9pm-3am. Over25s night with chart hits through the ages. Fridays Timeless DJ Dan Nicholas plays r’n’b, funk, disco and old skool. Just old skool.

Saturdays Decorum Soulful and upfront house, plus funk, disco etc, from Sinky and Styles. Sundays VIP Chris Evans (My Playhouse) plays club classics, funky house and r’n’b.

Monkey Bar 13 Castle Street, Swansea.

01792 480822 / www. monkeycafe.co.uk Wednesdays Get Tasty New night for the new students of the new term. Fri 3 Bass Raiderz 9pm-4am, £5-£10. Drum’n’bass radio staple Crissy Criss headlines tonight, with Rugga D, Azi, Dirty Elementz, Mike Edwards and Urkle Murkle also featuring. Sat 11 + 25 Marvel 10pm.

Funk, hip-hop and r’n’b, every other Saturday. I think those are the dates, but they only reply to about every fourth or fifth email I send. Sun 5 Rehab Roof Terrace Alldayer 2.30pm, £4-£8. Roof terrace party leaning towards the upfront house side of things, I’d think.

Mozarts 76b Walter Road, Uplands, Swansea. 01792 649984 / www.mozarts.co.uk Fri 3 Hip-Drop 10pm2.30am. Northern soul night. Fri 10 Yum-Yum Club 10pm-2.30am. Disco, dub and hip-hop DJs. Sat 4 Schwing 10pm-2.30am.

“Cool pop/indie/dance” DJs helm this 90s night. Sat 11 Gas Station Bop 10pm2.30am. Rock’n’roll and related fun from the 50s and 60s.

The Parrot 32 King Street, Carmarthen. 01267 236012 / www.parrotmusicbar.co.uk Fri 10 Old Skool High 8pm-2am, £6.50/£5 adv. Raggatek, hip-hop, drum’n’bass etc from D-Munis, Vicious Matter, Mr Traumatik, Blueyes, Two Nasty and 2hotty.

Perc Secret location, Newport. www.facebook.com/percclub *Sat 4 Perc 2-11pm, £8 adv. House and techno in a mystery venue, which Perc describe as an “intimate outdoor space”. Paul Blandford, Owen Kilby, Billy

Jordan, Chris Cain and Richie Moulton are your DJs. There will be very few, if any, tickets left for this come the day.

Popworld Wind Street, Swansea.

Mon-Fri + Sun 8pm-3am; Sat 3pm-3am. 01792 470676.

Mondays Rock’n’Roller 9pm-3am. Student night.

Roll the dice and win a round of drinks. Tuesdays Popstar Karaoke 9pm3am. Karaoke night with a £50 prize. Wednesdays W.H.I.P. 9pm, free before 11. That’s short for What Happens In Popworld.

Thursdays T.N.T. 9pm3am. That’s short for Thirsty Night Thursday.

All drinks are £1.50 before 12am, apart from wines, cocktails, champagnes and – oh, Swansea – Rekorderlig. Fridays + Saturdays Ain’t No Party Like A Popworld Party 8pm-3am, £2-£4 (Fri)/£3-£5 (Sat).

Pryzm (formerly Oceana) Greyfriars Road, Cardiff.

029 2023 3854 / www. pryzm.co.uk/cardiff Mondays BASS 10pm3am, free before 11.30.

Student night. on an urban tip and also featuring live acts. Thurs 2 Garage Nation 10pm-4am, £7 adv/£5 early bird. Bank holiday special featuring DJ Luck & MC Neat plus more TBC. Fridays + Saturdays 10pm-3am.

Three music arenas, VIP booths, other stuff. Saturday is in conjunction with Jongleurs comedy club, which also takes place here.

Pulse 3 Churchill Way, Cardiff.

029 2064 1010 / www. pulsecardiff.com. Gay venue.

Wednesdays Warped 10pm-4am. Join DJ Craig W on a journey through time with the best hits from the last two decades. Fridays Pulsetastic 10pm-5am, £4/£3. With live PAs once a month. Saturdays Pop Til You Drop 10pm-5am, £5/£4 b4 11. The very best chart remixes and classic hits all night long.

The Queens Hall High Street, Narberth.

01834 861212 / www. thequeenshall.org.uk Sat 4 8pm, £6-£14. Fourperson beatbox/hip-hop spectacular, which we previewed in Clubs last month, with turns from Dizraeli, Reeps One, Bellatrix and Rex Domino.

Revolution Castle Street, Cardiff.

Open from 11am. 029 2023 6689 / www.revolution-bars.co.uk Tuesdays Sync 9pm-3am.

Student night featuring hazers, lasers and drink deals.

Wednesdays Shotgun Rules 9pm-3am. Exclusive midweek student party.

You don’t need NUS to get in though. Fridays

Nouveau 9pm-3am. DJs, drinks offers, free area hire.

There’s also deep house and mashups from Sarah Louise and DJ Snooze, respectively. Saturdays Saturday Mix Session Party in style with table bookings.

The Royal Oak 200 Broadway, Splott, Cardiff. 029 2049 6628.

Fridays DJ 45 Free. Punk, indie, rock and soul classics from the 60s, 70s and 80s, all played from the original 7” vinyl.

The Scene Plymouth Street, Swansea. 07730 432166 / www.thesceneclub.co.uk Fri 3 + Fri 1 May Night Train 10pm-3am, £3.

Swansea Scooter Society DJs play R&B, mod, soul, jazz etc on the first Friday of every month. Sat 4 + Sat 2 May Dead Of Night 10pm-3am, £3. Goth/ alternative club night, on the first Saturday of every month. Used to be in Sin City, is now in here.

Sin City Dilwyn Street, Swansea.

01792 468892 / bookings@ alternativeswansea.com Thursdays Sin Savers 10pm-3am, £3. Student night, back for the new term. Fridays Monsters Of Rock 10pm-3.30am, £4/£2 before 12.30. Indie in room 1, metal in room 2. Saturdays Sink 10pm3am. Hip-hop, drum’n’bass, dubstep etc, with special guests plus resident DJs Dubman, Swiss Elf and South. Sat 18 is Sink Or Sin, a resident night mashup with Sin Savers DJs in one room and Sink DJs in the other. Sun 3 May Delusion 10pm-4am, £10 adv. Trance partythrowers bank on making your holiday euphoric.

Main room: Ilan Bluestone, Genix, Ben Joseph, Callan Christie and Nic Lawson.

Room 2: Detached present Wayne Hannigan, Teri Simmonds, Luke Tainton, Salty & Saunders, Kieran Lansley & Benny Lew and Owain Lawrence.

Soda Lounge St Mary Street, Cardiff.

029 2037 3363 / www. sodalounge.co.uk Tuesdays Cartel £4/£3.50. UK-wide student night. Mr. Mozafari will be playing vocal house and electro upstairs; DJ Wallace will supply r’n’b and chart in the Soda Lounge.

Thursdays Clique 10pm, £4. New night promising the hottest r’n’b and dancefloor fillers. Saturdays Soiree 9pm-4am. Three rooms including the Attic which is “the social playground for the high flyers and social elite, really the only place to be seen.” Imagine catching your reflection in the mirror just after writing that. Sun 5 Soda Sundays After Dark 9pm-

events 4am. Three rooms of r’n’b/ hip-hop, commercial dance and house and disco.

Tiger Tiger Friary House, Greyfriars Rd, Cardiff. Open Mon-Fri 12pm-2am, Sat 12pm3am, Sun 12pm-12.30am.

029 2039 1944 / www. tigertiger-cardiff.co.uk Every Day Lucky Voice Karaoke From £2.50 per session. The UK's leading private karaoke experience each day of the week.

Fridays Koosday 10pm3am, £7/£5. Something that has lots of decor, smoke machines etc and describes itself as an “Arrogantly Premium Clubbing Experience”. How depressing. Saturdays Kanaloa Polynesian style area with cocktails, VIP booths, dancers etc.

Troyfest Baskerville Hall, nr HayOn-Wye. info@troyfest. co.uk / www.troyfest.co.uk Fri 1-Sun 3 May Troyfest £89.50 (three days). Now established on the boutique festival calendar, here’s what Troyfest’s mix of live acts and DJs has for you this year, with many more TBC. Mr. Scruff, Gilles Peterson, Molotov Jukebox, Bodhi, Bam (Jungle Brothers), Too Many T’s, DJ Moneyshot, By The Rivers, Smerin’s Antisocial Club, Pink Oculus, Zen Hussies, Big Swing Soundsystem, Smokey Joe & The Kid, Subculture Sage, Ratcatcher, Kaptin Is Dead, Hermigervill, Madame Electrifie, Johnny Cage & The Voodoogroove, Cut Capers, The Future Dub Project, Clare James, Afro Cluster, Dave Little, Monty Carlo and Neil Navarra.

Plus all manner of theatre, art, burlesque etc Undertone (basement of 10 Feet Tall) 11a + 12 Church Street, Cardiff. 029 2022 8883 / www.undertonecardiff. com Tue 7 + 21 Jams 10pm, £4/£3 before 11. New fortnightly night of pop hits old and new, with drinks deals. Tue 14 + 28 Mixtape 10pm-3am, £3 adv. Eclectic tunes mixed by up and coming Cardiff DJs, presented by Xpress Radio. Fri 3 Sprungnacht 10pm-4am, £4/£2 before 11.

Night that launched just before Christmas is back for round two, promising “100% techno”. Batu, Doppelate, Fa.çade, Harry Wootten and TLB are the DJs. Fri 17 Keep It Complex 10pm-4am, £7. Electro, glitch-hop and house with a ‘name’ headliner TBC. Fri 24 Temple 10pm, £7.

New monthly night bringing biggish name drum’n’bass DJs to this venue. This month DLR headlines a bill also including Format, Rogue, Talis Man, Static, JE3, Caaza and Sarahtonin, plus host XL. *Sat 11 No Dange 10.30pm-4am,

£5 before 12. New night from the people behind City Bass, focusing more on grime, dubstep, garage and so returning to the stuff they were booking when they started, I guess.

April’s headliner is Mr Mitch, an instrumental grime kinda guy with an album on Planet Mu. Sat 18 Decay Dance 9pm4am, £3. Metal, alternative, punk, post-hardcore, goth and dance. Sat 25 Deep Inside 11pm-4am. With a lineup TBC. Sun 26 Simple 9pm-2am, £1. Four local promoters play their kinda music in one cheap night.

Warehouse 54 Cambrian Rd, Newport.

01633 259144 / www. wh54.com Wednesdays Wild Wednesdays Matt Kirke mixes up club-influenced beats from reggae to rock, d’n’b to dancefloor-led house. Thursdays The Social House beats and basslines. Friday Warehouse54 Live! A free festival-inspired mix of bass and live bands every week. Saturdays The NPclubhop Soulful selections from the WH54 Soundsystem, alongside live guests and special events on selected dates. Sunday The Sunday Session DJs until late.

Wow Bar 4 Churchill Way, Cardiff.

Gay venue. Free all day Sun-Thurs; before 11pm Fri + Sat. 029 2066 6247 / www.wowbarcardiff.com Wednesdays Wish You Were Here Free. Student night with “inflight entertainment” from Lambrini Rampage and Mary Golds, plus music from DJ Krys.

Thursdays The Night With No Name Free. DJ Craig and Mary Golds offer “mad games and crazy entertainment.” Fridays The Greatest Show In The City Free b4 11.

With WOW Showgirls Miss Kitty and Marcia, plus special guests every week.

Saturdays The VKend Free b4 11. With DJs Craig and Krys. You can get cheap deals in VK. £6.50 for a fishbowl. £6 for a jug of WKD. Settle down now, kids.

Sundays The Cuckoo Club Free. DJ Krys plays the tunes until late.

events EVERY MONDAY Ballet The Gate, Cardiff.

6-9.30pm, £6.50/£5.50/£3 taster. Info 029 2048 3344.

Beginners 6-7pm; intermediate 7-8; advanced 8-9.30.

Term starts on Mon 13.

Bharata Natyam Dance Classes For Adult Beginners Bayview House, Cardiff Bay. 8.15-9.15pm.

Info 029 2075 1158.

Bingo Porter’s, Cardiff.

8pm. Info info@porterscardiff.com. Hosted by Jack Cooper.

Cardiff Inter Varsity Club Meeting Churchill’s Hotel Bar, Llandaff, Cardiff.

8.30pm, £5 (three-month trial membership). Info 07526 141392. A friendly social group offering the chance to “liven up your social life and meet new friends” through a varied events programme including theatre, live music, walks, badminton, table tennis and pub nights.

More info at www.cardiffivc. org.uk.

Ceroc The Gate, Cardiff.

7.45-10.45pm, £7/£5 NUS. Info 029 2048 3344.

Sessions for a dance style billed as a combo of salsa, ballroom, hip-hop, tango and jive. Term starts on Mon 13.

Ceroc Dance Class Odyssey Nightclub, Swansea. 7.45-10.45pm, £5. Info cerocsouthwales@ gmail.com.

Children’s Ballroom Dancing Classes Memorial Hall, Newbridge.

7-9pm. Info 01495 243252.

Community Choir Sessions Cornwall Street Church Hall, Cardiff. 7.309.30pm, free. Info 07952 752823. Led by Pauline Down and taking place most Mondays; ring ahead to check.

Freestyle Fitness Yoga Kings Road Studios, Pontcanna, Cardiff. 7.308.30pm, £7/£6. Info 07774 601544 / serenhealth@hotmail.co.uk. Every Monday and Friday.

India Dance Wales Classes Highmead House, Lisvane, Cardiff. Info 029 2075 1158. For Grade 2 to vocational level. These classes are by special application only at various points in the month – not on specific days, hence listing them here. To apply write to admin@indiadancewales. com with previous dance experience and reason for wanting to join India Dance Wales.

Japanese Taiko Drumming The Riverfront, Newport. 4-7pm, £20 (four weeks). Info 01633 656757.

4-5pm: retired people; 5-6: stage 2 for 7-14-year-olds; 6-7: stage 1 for 7-14-yearolds.

Making Music The Gate, Cardiff. 6-10pm, £7.50£9.50 per session/£4 taster.

Info 029 2048 3344. Learn to play improvised rock and pop and basic chord sequences. Beginners 6-8pm; intermediate 8-10.

Term starts on Mon 13.

Musical Theatre The Riverfront, Newport. 6.158.30pm, £6/£5. Info 01633 656757. 7-11 years old: 6.15-7.15pm; 12 and up: 7.15-8.30pm.

NoFit State Circus Classes And Courses Prince Of Wales Building, John Street, Cardiff. Info

029 2022 1330 / www. nofitstate.org. Today features Youth Circus Ewoks (4-5 + 5.15-6.15pm, £6 per session); Youth Circus Wookies (4.30-6pm, £7 per session); Flying Trapeze (6-8pm, £12/£10 per session); Aerial Yoga (6.30-7.30pm, £11/£9) and Flexibility (7.45-9.15pm, £9/£7 per session).

Official Guided Tours – Every Day Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. £5/£4. Info 029 2063 6464. Tours of the centre running daily for one hour.

Advance booking recommended.

Pilates The Gate, Cardiff.

11.30am-1.30pm, £5.50£7.50. Info 029 2048 3344.

Beginners for the first hour, intermediate for the second.

Term starts on Mon 13.

Quizzical The North Star, Cardiff. 8.30pm, free. Info 029 2062 4050.

RAD Children’s Ballet The Gate, Cardiff. 4-7.45pm, £6.50/£5.50/£3 taster. Info 029 2048 3344. 4-6-yearolds: 4-4.45pm; 6-8 4.455.45pm; Ballet Grade 1 6-8 yrs 5.45-6.45pm; Ballet Grade 2 6-8 yrs 6.457.45pm. Term starts on Mon 13.

Salsa Classes Mischiefs, Cardiff Bay. 7.30-9.30pm, £5/£4 NUS. Info 07800 565651. Beginners for the first hour, then improvers/ intermediate.

SeeWales Sightseeing Day Tour: Golden Gower National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff (pickup point). 9am5.30pm, £5 off if you present this magazine. Info 029 2022 7227 / www.seewales. com. Day tours from Cardiff, every Monday, Thursday and Sunday. This one visits the Gower, Swansea Bay, Parc-Le-Breos, the Dylan Thomas Centre and more.

St Donats Atlantic Chorale St Donats Arts Centre, Vale Of Glamorgan.

7.30pm. Info 01446 799100.

Choir rehearsals.

Tai Chi: Moving 5 Elements Qigong Glyndwr Community Hall, Penarth.

10.30-11.30am. Info 029 2020 6042. New daytime class.

Tango Dancing Argentine Barocco, Cardiff.

8-10.45pm, £3/£1. Info 029 2023 7332.

Tang Soo Do Chapter Arts Centre, Canton, Cardiff.

7-9pm. Info 07734 557767.

Learn traditional Korean karate; beginners welcome.

Welsh Lessons The Gate, Cardiff. 10am-12pm. Info 029 2048 3344. Every Monday afternoon and Tuesday evening. Email info@learnwelsh.co.uk for more deets.

Yoga Norwegian Church Arts Centre, Cardiff Bay. 12.30-1.15pm. Info 029 2087 7959. On tomorrow also.

Yoga With Valerie Price St Mary’s Church Hall, Canton, Cardiff. 6.309.30pm. Info admin@ yoga-works.co.uk. 6.30-8pm:

intermediate; 8.10-9.30pm: beginners.

Zumba Dance Classes Norwegian Church Arts Centre, Cardiff Bay. 5.306.30pm, £5/£4. Info 029 2087 7959.

EVERY TUESDAY A Ballroom Dance Memorial Hall, Newbridge.

7-11pm. Info 01495 243252.

Aikido Village Hall, Heol Syr Lewis, Morganstown.

8-10pm. Info 07790 167560.

Every Tuesday and Friday.

American Line Dancing The Gate, Cardiff. 2.454.45pm, £3. Info 029 2048 3344. Term starts on Tue 14.

Belly Dance Classes Conway Road Methodist Church Hall, Cardiff. 6.308pm, £6. Info 07872 306745.

Mixed ability class with Steph.

Beth’s Buns Pilates Boulders, St Catherine's Park, Cardiff. 7.15-8.15pm, £8.50. Info 029 2048 4880.

New class here every Tuesday.

Cardiff City Table Tennis Club – Student Session Cardiff City Table Tennis Club, Cathays, Cardiff. 8.30-10.30pm, £1. Info lawrenceccttc@ gmail.com. New student night aiming to focus on the social aspect of table tennis.

Circus Skills The Riverfront, Newport.

7-8.30pm, £3.50 per session. Info 01633 656757. For ages 14 and up.

Climbing Class For Adults Boulders, St Catherine's Park, Cardiff.

7-8.30pm, £12. Info 029 2048 4880. Every Tuesday to Thursday.

Contemporary Dance The Gate, Cardiff.

6-8.30pm, £4.50-£6.50/£2.50 taster. Info 029 2048 3344.

Beginners 6-7pm; intermediate 7-8.30. Term starts on Tue 14.

Extend The Gate, Cardiff.

11am, £2.50. Info 029 2048 3344. Exercise to music, aimed at over-60s and people with a disability. Term starts on Tue 14.

Funkypump Fitness Universal Gym, Cardiff.

6pm. Info www.funkypumpfitness.co.uk. Boxing-based high-intensity workout with a house soundtrack. First session free. In this gym every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

Gitananda Yoga St David's Uniting Church, Pontypridd. 7-8.30pm, free.

Info 01443 408065.

Glam Dram St Donats Arts Centre, Vale Of Glamorgan.

7pm. Info 01446 799100.

Amateur theatre company for adults.

India Dance Wales Classes Rubicon Dance, Adamsdown, Cardiff.

6.30pm. Info 029 2075 1158.

From beginners to next level and for all ages and abilities.

Jazz Workshops For Beginners Atradius Offices

(4th floor), Cardiff Bay. 6.20-8pm, £10. Info 07806 625717. All instruments and ages welcome.

Kizomba Tango Classes 10 Feet Tall, Cardiff. 6pm, £5. Info 029 2022 8883.

Learn African samba here.

Life Drawing Sketching Session 10 Feet Tall, Cardiff. 6-7.30pm, £5. Info 029 2022 8883. Hosted by Cardiff Life Model.

Lindy Hop Dance Classes & Social Swing Dancing The Garage, Swansea. 6-10pm. Info 01792 475147.

Little’ns Music The Riverfront, Newport. 9.4510.30am + 1.30-2.15, £3 per session. Info 01633 656757. Introduction to rhythm and singing for babies, plus a chance to practice nursery rhymes.

NoFit State Circus Classes And Courses Prince Of Wales Building, John Street, Cardiff. Info 029 2022 1330 / www. nofitstate.org. Today: Youth Circus Jedis (ground based skills, 4-6pm, £7 per session); Youth Circus Padawans (4.30-6pm, £7 per session); Hula Hoop (6-7pm, £7); Circus Mish Mash (6-8pm, £5) and Beginners Aerial (8-10pm, £11/£9).

Official Guided Tours – Every Day Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. £5/£4. Info 029 2063 6464.

Open Mic Night Porter’s, Cardiff. 8pm. Info info@ porterscardiff.com.

Pied Piper Music The Gate, Cardiff. 10.1510.45am + 1.30-2.15pm, £4.50 (morning)/£5 (afternoon). Info 029 2048 3344.

Songs, games and music making for toddlers (morning) and pre-schoolers aged 3+ (afternoon). Term starts on Tue 14.

Pilates And Stretch Conway Road Methodist Church Hall, Cardiff. 8.159.15pm, £6. Info 07872 306745. With Steph; bring your own mat please.

Pilates: Beginners The Gate, Cardiff. 6.30-7.30pm, £5.50-£7.50. Info 029 2048 3344. Term starts on Tue 14.

Pregnancy Yoga Om Studio, Partridge Lane, Cardiff. 6-7.15pm, £35/£30 (five-week blocks). Info kalavathi@ omstudio.co.uk.

Salsa Classes Bar 44, Cowbridge. 7.30-9.30pm, £5/£4 NUS. Info 07800 565651.

Salsa Classes La Tasca, Cardiff. 7-11pm, £5/£4.50 NUS. Info 07949 270618.

Every Tuesday. 7.15pm beginners; 8.15pm improvers; 9.15pm intermediates.

SeeWales Sightseeing Day Tour: Mines & Mountains National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff (pickup point). 9am5.30pm, £5 off if you present this magazine. Info 029 2022 7227 / www.seewales.

BUZZ 61

events com. Every Tuesday and Friday. This one visits Big Pit Mining Museum of Wales and Brecon Beacons National Park (including BBNP visitors centre).

Tai Chi / Qigong Shibashi St Mary’s Church Hall, Canton, Cardiff. 6.30-9pm. Info 029 2020 6042. 6.30-7.30: Tai Chi Health Qigong – Ba Duan Jin; 7.45-9: Rattan Bo Tai Chi Qigong (Chi Kung).

Vassia’s Pilates M.A.D.E. Gallery & Shop, Cardiff.

Ceroc Dance Class Dinas Powys Parish Hall, Cardiff.

7.30-10.45pm, £5. Info cerocsouthwales@gmail. com.

Climbing Class For Adults Boulders, St Catherine's Park, Cardiff.

7-8.30pm, £12. Info 029 2048 4880.

Freestyle Fitness Yoga Wake Up Kings Road Studios, Pontcanna, Cardiff. 7.15-8am, £7£6.

Info 07774 601544 / serenhealth@hotmail. co.uk.

Roll up, roll up (your trouser leg) for the appearance of the Chikara wrestling franchise at Cardiff's Masonic Hall on Sun 5 Apr. Chikara is an especially anarchic, lucha libre-inspired division of indy wrestling, forming in Pennsylvania in the early 00s and boasting links to the local punk rock scene.

Attack! Pro Wrestling have enticed them to south Wales for one of only three dates on Chikara's UK tour.

4-5.30pm, £5/£6.50 taster session. Info 029 2047 3373.

Welsh Lessons The Gate, Cardiff. 7-9pm. Info 029 2048 3344.

Yoga Norwegian Church Arts Centre, Cardiff Bay. 5.30-6.30 + 6.45-8pm. Info 029 2087 7959.

Yoga Classes Om Studio, Partridge Lane, Cardiff.

7.30-9pm, £8/£6.50. Info 07727 139379 / www. omstudio.co.uk. With Kalavathi Devi.

Yoga Share M.A.D.E. Gallery & Shop, Cardiff.

5-7pm, £4 (suggested donation). Info 029 2047 3373. Led by Ashtanga practitioner Sarah Cleary.

Yoga With Tori Boulders, St Catherine's Park, Cardiff.

6-7pm, £8.50/£8 NUS. Info 029 2048 4880. Every Tuesday and Wednesday.

Yoga With Valerie Price Llandough Institute, Penarth. 8.30-9.30pm. Info admin@yoga-works.co.uk .

Mixed level class.

Zumba: Dance Exercise Classes Fairwater Social & Athletic Club, Cardiff.

6-7pm. Info 07891 712344.

Led by Irene Davies, as is...

Zumba: Dance Exercise Classes St Faith Church Hall, Llanishen, Cardiff.

8-9pm. Info 07891 712344.

EVERY WEDNESDAY A Tea Dance Memorial Hall, Newbridge. 2-4pm.

Info 01495 243252.

Ceramics For Adults The Riverfront, Newport.

6-8pm, £30 (five weeks).

Info 01633 656757.

BUZZ 62

Life Drawing Sketching Session The Project Space, Commercial Street, Newport. 6.30-8.30pm, £5.

Info 07830 381930. Hosted

by Cardiff Life Model.

Newport Youth Dance The Riverfront, Newport.

4.15-6pm, £2.75 per session. Info 01633 656757.

7-10 years old: 4.15-5pm; 14-18: 5-6pm.

NoFit State Circus Classes And Courses Prince Of Wales Building, John Street, Cardiff. Info 029 2022 1330 / www. nofitstate.org. Today: Youth Circus Jedis (acrobatics, 4.15-6pm, £7); Acrobatics (6-8pm, £9/£7) and Handstands (8-9.30pm, £10/£8).

Official Guided Tours – Every Day Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. £5/£4. Info 029 2063 6464.

Pilates The Gate, Cardiff.

6-8pm, £5.50-£7.50.

Info 029 2048 3344.

Concentrating on General Fitness. Beginners for the first hour; advanced for the second. Term starts on Wed 15.

Pub Quiz The Pilot, Penarth. 8pm. Info 029 2071 0615. With Hayley.

Salsa Classes Rhiwbina Recreational Club, Whitchurch, Cardiff.

8-10pm, £5/£4 NUS. Info 07800 565651.

SeeWales Sightseeing Tour: Romans And Ruins National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff (pickup point). 9am-5.30pm, £5 off if you present this maga-

zine. Info 029 2022 7227 / www.seewales.com. Day tours from Cardiff, every Wednesday and Saturday.

This one visits Caerleon, Caerwent, Tintern Abbey, the Wye Valley, Abbey Mill Craft Centre and Raglan Castle.

Yoga Classes Om Studio, Partridge Lane, Cardiff.

9.30-11am + 7-9pm, £8/£6.50. Info 07727 139379 / www.omstudio. co.uk..

Yoga Trwy Gyfrwng Y Gymraeg Insole Court, Llandaff, Cardiff. 7-8.30pm.

Info admin@yoga-works. co.uk.

Yoga With Tori Boulders, St Catherine's Park, Cardiff.

6-7pm, £8.50/£8 NUS. Info 029 2048 4880.

Yu-Gi-Oh Tournaments The Freaks Geeks and Autographs Store, Swansea. 5.30pm, £3.50.

Info 07914 683534.

Zumba Classes La Tasca, Cardiff. 6pm, £4. Info 07949 270618.

EVERY THURSDAY Ab Attack Class Boulders, St Catherine's Park, Cardiff. 6-6.30pm, £8.50/£8 NUS. Info 029 2048 4880.

Ballet Academy Wales Classes – Children 6-11 Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 4-5pm, £4.95. Info 07837 937351.

Bingo Market Street Club, Barry. 8.30pm. Info 01446 733863.

Biodanza Bishop of Llandaff High School, Cardiff. 7-9pm, £6/£5. Info antoinette@ biodanza4all.com. “A fusion of music, movement and feeling” taught here by Antoinette Lorraine.

Breakdance The Riverfront, Newport. 6.157pm, £3.50 per session.

Info 01633 656757. Learn break dancing styles, uprock, freezes and power moves. For ages 8-18.

Ceroc Dance Class Odyssey Nightclub, Swansea. 7.45-10.45pm, £5. Info cerocsouthwales@gmail. com.

Children’s Latin/ Ballroom Classes Memorial Hall, Newbridge.

4.30-8pm. Info 01495 243252.

Circuits Class Boulders, St Catherine's Park, Cardiff.

6.45-7.45pm, £8.50/£8 NUS. Info 029 2048 4880.

Every Thursday.

Climbing Class For Adults Boulders, St Catherine's Park, Cardiff.

7-8.30pm, £12. Info 029 2048 4880.

Funkypump Fitness Universal Gym, Cardiff.

6pm. Info www.funkypumpfitness.co.uk.

Hand Drumming Group Canton Uniting Church, Cardiff. 6-6.50pm, £15 (five weeks). Info 01446 401209.

Hosted by Laura Bradshaw.

NoFit State Circus

Classes And Courses Prince Of Wales Building, John Street, Cardiff. Info 029 2022 1330 / www. nofitstate.org. Today: Handstands (6-7.30pm, £10/£8) and Performance (7.30-9.30pm, £10/£8).

Official Guided Tours – Every Day Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. £5/£4. Info 029 2063 6464.

Pilates Kings Road Studios, Pontcanna, Cardiff. 6.15-7.15pm, £7/£6. Info 07774 601544 / serenhealth@hotmail. co.uk . Every Thursday.

Salsa Buena Class Eclipse, Penarth. 7.309.30pm, free. Info 07800 565651. New class, free for a limited time. Also features a Latin disco after the class.

Salsa Classes La Tasca, Cardiff. 7-11pm, £5/£4.50 NUS. Info 07949 270618.

7.15pm beginners; 8.15pm improvers; 9.15pm Rueda.

Salsa Dancing Classes Revolucion De Cuba, Cardiff. 8-10pm, £6/£5 NUS. Info 029 2023 6689.

Salsa, bachata, zouk and kizomba.

SeeWales Sightseeing Day Tour: Golden Gower National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff (pickup point). 9am-5.30pm, £5 off if you present this magazine. Info 029 2022 7227 / www.seewales.com.

Tai Chi / Qigong Shibashi Albert Road Church & Community Centre, Penarth. 6.309.15pm. Info 029 2020 6042. With Christie Butterick. 6.30-7.30: The 18 Movements Of Shibashi Tai Chi/Qigong; 7.45-9.15: Tai Chi Short Form.

Tai Chi / Qigong Shibashi St Fagans Village Hall. 12-1pm. Info 029 2020 6042.

Yoga Classes Cardiff Steiner School, Llandaff North, Cardiff. 6-7.15 + 7.30-8.45pm, £8/£6.50.

Info info@yogaskies.co.uk.

Hosted by Mike Young.

Yoga Classes Om Studio, Partridge Lane, Cardiff.

7-8am + 1-2.30, 6-7.15 + 7.30-9pm, £8/£6.50.

Info 07727 139379 / www. omstudio.co.uk.

EVERY FRIDAY Aikido Village Hall, Heol Syr Lewis, Morganstown.

8-10pm. Info 07790 167560.

Boys’ Dance The Riverfront, Newport. 4.455.30pm, £2.75 per session.

Info 01633 656757. Taught

by Rubicon, for ages 6-12.

Cardiff Aikikai The Dojo, Roath, Cardiff. 6.30-10pm.

Info mcaluan@cardiffaikikai.co.uk.

Children’s Tap/Ballet Classes Memorial Hall, Newbridge. 10.30-11.30am.

Info 01495 243252.

Community Choir Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 9.45-11.45am,

£72/£48 (12 weeks). Info 01446 401209.

Freestyle Fitness Yoga Kings Road Studios, Pontcanna, Cardiff. 7.308.30pm, £7/£6. Info 07774 601544 / serenhealth@ hotmail.co.uk.

Little’ns Dance The Riverfront, Newport. 9.4510.25am + 10.30-11.15am, £3 per session. Info 01633 656757.

Newport Photographic Club Skip Jennings Hall, Maindee, Newport. 7.30pm.

Info 01633 400685.

NoFit State Circus Classes And Courses Prince Of Wales Building, John Street, Cardiff. Info 029 2022 1330 / www. nofitstate.org. Today: Youth Circus Jedis (aerial, 4.15-6pm, £7); Aerial Conditioning (6-7.30pm, £10/£8); Flying Trapeze Taster class (fortnightly, 6-8pm, £15).

Official Guided Tours – Every Day Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. £5/£4. Info 029 2063 6464.

Older Adult Dance/ Exercise The Riverfront, Newport. 11.15am12.15pm, £2.80. Info 01633 656757. Low impact dance and exercise class aimed at the over 50s.

Rhiwbina Farmers Market The Butchers Arms, Rhiwbina. 10am1pm, free. Info 029 2022 7982.

SeeWales Sightseeing Day Tour: Mines & Mountains National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff (pickup point).

9am-5.30pm, £5 off if you present this magazine.

Info 029 2022 7227 / www. seewales.com.

Tango Argentine Chapter Arts Centre, Canton, Cardiff. 7.30-8.45pm, £7/£4. Info 029 2023 7332.

No experience or partner required.

Zumba: Dance Exercise Classes Sbectrwm Community Centre, Fairwater, Cardiff. 1-2pm.

Info 07891 712344. With Irene Davies.

EVERY SATURDAY Children’s Climbing Classes Boulders, St Catherine's Park, Cardiff.

10-11.30am, £12. Info 029 2048 4880. Every Saturday and Sunday.

Climbing Class For Adults Boulders, St Catherine's Park, Cardiff.

12, 2 + 4pm, £12. Info 029 2048 4880. Every Saturday and Sunday.

Funkypump Fitness Universal Gym, Cardiff.

9.30am. Info www.funkypumpfitness.co.uk.

NoFit State Circus: Youth Circus Prince Of Wales Building, John Street, Cardiff. 10.30am12pm, £7/£6 per session.

Info 029 2022 1330 / www.nofitstate.org.

10.30-11.30am: Ewoks;

11.30am-1pm: Padawans; 10-11.30am: Wookies.

Roath Real Food Market Mackintosh Sports Club Car Park, Roath, Cardiff. 9.30am-1pm, free.

Info 029 2022 7982.

SeeWales Sightseeing Tour: Romans And Ruins National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff (pickup point). 9am-5.30pm, £5 off if you present this magazine. Info 029 2022 7227 / www.seewales.com.

St Mary Street Cardiff Market St Mary Street, Cardiff. 11am-5pm, free.

Info 029 2019 0036. Selling artisan foods, vintage clothing, antique furniture and bric-a-brac.

Yoga Classes Om Studio, Partridge Lane, Cardiff.

8-9.30am, £6.50. Info 07727 139379 / www. omstudio.co.uk. With Kalavathi Devi.

Youth Theatre The Riverfront, Newport.

12.45-3.15pm, £28 (seven weeks)/£25 (six weeks).

Info 01633 656757. For ages 8 to 16, across two classes (youngest first).

EVERY SUNDAY Ballet Academy Wales Classes – Adults Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff.

12-1pm, £6.50. Info 07837 937351.

Ballet For Beginners Dance Studio, Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 2-3.30pm, £6/£15 for three classes.

Info info@ burlesquecardiff.co.uk.

Hosted by Stephanie of Burlesque Cardiff.

Bridgend Undercover Car Boot Sale Multistorey Car Park, Bridgend Town Centre. 7am-12pm, free (selling cars £6; selling cars with trailers £10). Info 01656 661338.

Children’s Climbing Classes Boulders, St Catherine's Park, Cardiff.

10-11.30am, £12. Info 029 2048 4880.

Climbing Class For Adults Boulders, St Catherine's Park, Cardiff.

12, 2 + 4pm, £12. Info 029 2048 4880.

Farmers’ Market National History Museum, St Fagans. 10am-4pm, free.

Info 029 2057 3500. Welsh producers sell their wares every week at this brand new market.

Lindy Hop Dance Classes & Social Swing Dancing Pontardawe Arts Centre. 6-10pm. Info 01792 863722.

NoFit State Circus Classes And Courses Prince Of Wales Building, John Street, Cardiff. Info 029 2022 1330 / www. nofitstate.org. Today: Youth Circus Jedis (mixed circus skills, 12-2pm, £7) and Youth Circus Jedis (performance, 2-4pm, £7).

Official Guided Tours – Every Day Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. £5/£4. Info 029 2063

events 6464. *Riverside Farmers’ Market Fitzhammon Embankment, Cardiff.

10am-2pm, free. Info 029 2022 7982. Always worth a trip.

SeeWales Sightseeing Day Tour: Golden Gower National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff (pickup point). 9am-5.30pm, £5 off if you present this magazine. Info 029 2022 7227 / www.seewales.com.

Sunday Board Games Cardiff Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 3pm, free.

Info 029 2030 4400. Weekly session featuring a mixture of competitive and cooperative games.

WEDNESDAY 1 Amazing Eggsperiments Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. Ovinerelated good science for the Easter ‘period’ (some people call eggs chicken periods as a sort of joke).

(On weekends until Sun 12) Art At War National History Museum, St Fagans. 11am-1pm + 2-4pm, free. Info 029 2057 3500. See some examples of WWI-era creativity. On tomorrow also.

Ask The Gardener: Sowing Seeds National History Museum, St Fagans. 2-3pm, free. Info 029 2057 3500.

Beekeeping For Beginners The Abacus, Cardiff. 6.30-9pm, £25. Info hello@ greencityevents.co.uk.

Hosted by Green City Events.

Chase The Chick Board Game Llantarnam Grange Arts Centre, Cwmbran.

10am-3pm, £10.50/£8.50.

Info 01633 483321. First of seven kids’ workshops here between now and Fri 10.

Cracking Good Code Trail National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 10am4pm, free. Info 01792 463980. Find the smashed eggs around the galleries, then put together the numbers to crack open the Museum safe. (Until Sun 12) Drawing With Wool M.A.D.E. Gallery & Shop, Cardiff. 10am-12pm, £10.

Info 029 2047 3373. Class for 5-8-year-olds with Ruth Packham.

Lab Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475.

Come to the Techniquest laboratory and design a K’nex vehicle for our intrepid racing eggs. (Until Sun 12) Print & Stamp National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 12.30-3.30pm, free. Info 01792 463980.

On tomorrow also.

Reminiscence Monthly Cardiff Story, The Hayes, Cardiff. 11am-1pm. Info 029 2078 8334. Come and reminiscence about old Cardiff over a cup of tea or coffee.

Spring Shorts Cameo Club, Pontcanna, Cardiff.

7.30pm. Info 029 2022 0466. Parthian Books presents a “spring celebration of the short story,” plus a launch for two books: The Missing Woman And Other Stories by Carole Burns and Goldfish Memory by Monique Schwitter.

Star Tours Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. Find out more about some familiar constellations, the planets, how stars are born and how they die. (Until Sun 12) Wet Felt A Vessel M.A.D.E. Gallery & Shop, Cardiff. 1.30-4pm, £10. Info 029 2047 3373. Class for 8-14-year-olds with Ruth Packham.

Woodland & Wild Food Talks National History Museum, St Fagans. 11am1pm + 2-4pm, free. Info 029 2057 3500. On tomorrow also.

THURSDAY 2 Amazing Eggsperiments Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (On weekends until Sun 12) Art At War National History Museum, St Fagans. 11am-1pm + 2-4pm, free. Info 029 2057 3500. See some examples of WWI-era creativity. On tomorrow also.

Boxing: Welsh Amateur Championship Finals Welsh Institute Of Sport, Cardiff. 10am-10.30pm.

Info 0300 3003129. On tomorrow also.

Ceramic Eggs Llantarnam Grange Arts Centre, Cwmbran. 10am3pm, £10.50/£8.50. Info 01633 483321.

Cracking Good Code Trail National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 10am4pm, free. Info 01792 463980. (Until Sun 12) Cricket: Uni – Glamorgan v Cardiff MCCU SWALEC Stadium, Cardiff. Info 029 2040 9380.

(Until Sun 5) First Thursday Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff.

7.30pm, £2.50. Info 029 2030 4400. New poetry, fiction and memoir sessions.

Golf: 2015 Principality Junior Wales Open Celtic Manor Resort, nr Newport. £20 to enter. Info 01633 413000. Event which features under-13, under15 and under-18 categories, and continues in the Vale (Tue 7) and Langland Bay (Wed 8).

Hockey: Wales v Switzerland Welsh Institute Of Sport, Cardiff.

9am-6pm. Info 0300 3003126. (Until Mon 6) International Childrens’ Book Day Dylan Thomas Centre, Swansea. Free. Info 01792 463980. Come to the centre dressed as your favourite children’s book character and take part in various activities.

Lab Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475.

(Until Sun 12) Print & Stamp National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 12.30-3.30pm, free. Info 01792 463980.

On tomorrow also.

Quiz Night Hobo’s, Bridgend. 7.30pm, £1. Info www. hobosmusicvenue.com.

Star Tours Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (Until Sun 12) Woodland & Wild Food Talks National History Museum, St Fagans. 11am1pm + 2-4pm, free. Info 029 2057 3500.

FRIDAY 3 Amazing Eggsperiments Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (On weekends until Sun 12) Ask The Gardener: Planting Potatoes National History Museum, St Fagans. 2-3pm, free. Info 029 2057 3500.

At Home With The Tudors National History Museum, St Fagans. Free.

Info 029 2057 3500. (Until Mon 6) Boxing: Welsh Amateur Championship Finals Welsh Institute Of Sport, Cardiff. 10am-10.30pm.

Info 0300 3003129.

Cardiff Inter Varsity Club Meeting Park Plaza Hotel, Cardiff. 8.30pm, £5 (three-month trial membership). Info 07526 141392 / www.cardiffivc. org.uk. Meeting here on the first Friday of each month.

Cracking Good Code Trail National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 10am4pm, free. Info 01792 463980. (Until Sun 12) Cricket: Uni – Glamorgan v Cardiff MCCU SWALEC Stadium, Cardiff. Info 029 2040 9380.

(Until Sun 5) Decorative Egg Cups Llantarnam Grange Arts Centre, Cwmbran. 10am3pm, £10.50/£8.50. Info 01633 483321.

Easter Bank Holiday Weekend National Botanic Garden Of Wales, Carmarthenshire. £9.75/£4.95 kids over 5. Info 01558 667149.

Featuring, over two days, magician Luke Jugglestruck; Meet A Meerkat and Meirion Owen and his Quack Pack. On tomorrow also.

Easter Eggstravaganza National Waterfront Museum, Swansea.

12-4pm, free. Info 01792 463980. This will definitely be better than the Easter Eggstravaganzas taking place this month in the Lee Valley, Cadbury World, Winchester, the Scala in London, Blackpool, Weston-super-mare, the Isle Of Wight, Chislehurst, Hesley Wood, Mount Stuart, Derby, Cannock Chase, Hatton, Havant, County Fermangh, Norwich and Ninesprings, to name

only a few.

Egg Hunt National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff.

11am-4pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951. Spring-themed treasure hunt to help kids explore the museum.

(Until Mon 6) Egg-straordinary Romans! National Roman Legion Museum, Caerleon.

11am-3pm, free. Info 029 2057 3550. Celebrate the start of spring in a manner loosely comparable to how the Romans would have done. On tomorrow also, and Mon 6.

Farmers Market High Street, Merthyr Tydfil.

Free. Info 01685 725106.

Quality produce from no more than 50 miles away, on the first Friday of each month.

Get Quizzical The Globe At Hay, Hay-On-Wye. 8pm, £2 to enter. Info 01497 821762. Pub quiz on the first Friday of every month.

Hockey: Wales v Switzerland Welsh Institute Of Sport, Cardiff.

9am-6pm. Info 0300 3003126. (Until Mon 6) Lab Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475.

(Until Sun 12) Llandaff Ghost Walk City Cross, Cathedral Green, Llandaff (meeting point). 8.45pm, £8.50.

Info 07538 878609. A walk through woodlands, ruins and graveyards, on every Friday and Saturday this month.

Museum Ghost Walk National History Museum, St Fagans. 7-9pm, £15. Info 029 2057 3500. Presented

by Cardiff History & Hauntings. Also on Sat 4, 11 and 25.

Star Tours Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (Until Sun 12) St Fagans Easter Hunt National History Museum, St Fagans. 11am-2pm, £2.

Info 029 2057 3500. (Until Mon 6) Traditional Afternoon Tea Norwegian Church Arts Centre, Cardiff Bay. 2pm, £12 per person. Info 029 2087 7959. Taking place on various dates all through the year; this month it’s also on Sun 19.

A minimum of two people need to book.

SATURDAY 4 Adult Craft Workshop Dylan Thomas Centre, Swansea. 10am-1pm, free.

Info 01792 463980. Craft session with Lisa Evans, drawing on Dylan Thomas’ poem Here In This Spring for inspiration.

Amazing Eggsperiments Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (On weekends until Sun 12) An Intimate Tour Of The Beacons’ Landscape & Heritage Brecon Beacons National Park. £35. Info 01874 749092. A Good Day Out event.

At Home With The

Tudors National History Museum, St Fagans. Free.

Info 029 2057 3500. (Until Mon 6) Bushcraft & Survival Brecon Beacons National Park. £90. Info 01874 749092. A Good Day Out event.

Cheeki Monkeys Craft Fair Lisvane Memorial Hall, Cardiff. 11am-1pm, free/£10 to set up a stall.

Info 07948 399111. Buy & sell babies’ and children’s toys, clothes & equipment.

Cracking Good Code Trail National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 10am4pm, free. Info 01792 463980. (Until Sun 12) Craft Fair Coffee Cove Cafe Bar, Barry Island.

10am-3.30pm, free/£10 to set up a stall. Info 07948 399111. Every first Saturday of the month.

Craft Workshop For Ages 8-16 Dylan Thomas Centre, Swansea. 10am1pm, free. Info 01792 463980. Session with Lisa Evans, drawing on Dylan Thomas’ poems for inspiration.

Cricket: Uni – Glamorgan v Cardiff MCCU SWALEC Stadium, Cardiff. Info 029 2040 9380.

(Until Sun 5) Dewch Y Ganu National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 11am, free. Info 01792 463980. Sessions for Welsh learners.

Easter Bank Holiday Weekend National Botanic Garden Of Wales, Carmarthenshire. £9.75/£4.95 kids over 5.

Info 01558 667149.

Egg Hunt National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff.

11am-4pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951. (Until Mon 6) Egg-straordinary Romans! National Roman Legion Museum, Caerleon.

11am-3pm, free. Info 029 2057 3550.

Football: Barclays Premier League – Swansea City v Hull City Liberty Stadium, Swansea. 3pm. Info 0870 400004.

Handmade Craft And Gift Market Rhiwbina Baptist Church, Cardiff.

10am-3pm. Info uniquefairs@gmx.co.uk.

Hockey: Wales v Switzerland Welsh Institute Of Sport, Cardiff.

9am-6pm. Info 0300 3003126. (Until Mon 6) Lab Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475.

(Until Sun 12) Llandaff Ghost Walk City Cross, Cathedral Green, Llandaff (meeting point). 8.45pm, £8.50. Info 07538 878609.

Museum Ghost Walk National History Museum, St Fagans. 7-9pm, £15. Info 029 2057 3500.

Pig Street Craft Fair The Queens Hall, Narberth.

10am-4pm, free. Info enquiries@pigstreetcrafts. co.uk. Selling original arts and crafts, also on Sat 11.

Sheep Trekking Venue TBC, Brecon Beacons. £35/£25 kids/free under-3s.

Info 01874 749092. A Good Day Out event.

Star Tours Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (Until Sun 12) St Fagans Easter Hunt National History Museum, St Fagans. 11am-2pm, £2.

Info 029 2057 3500. (Until Mon 6) Supersonic Car Drawing Competition National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 12-3pm, free.

Info 01792 463980. Design a fast car in this family drawing workshop. On tomorrow also.

Try Gamelan Workshop St David’s Hall, Cardiff.

1pm, £7/£5. Info 029 2087 8444.

Wild Garlic Forage & Bake Day Venue TBC, nr Llandeilo. £55. Info 01874 749092. A Good Day Out event.

Workshop Bike Sale Cardiff Cycle Workshop, Gabalfa, Cardiff. 10am12pm. Info www.cycletrainingwales.org.uk. “A range of refurbished bikes on sale.

All fully serviced and with a three-month warranty.”

This is in the same place as the above, despite their slightly different names.

SUNDAY 5 Amazing Eggsperiments Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (On weekends until Sun 12) At Home With The Tudors National History Museum, St Fagans. Free.

Info 029 2057 3500. (Until Mon 6) Boutique Gift Markets Norwegian Church Arts Centre, Cardiff Bay. 10.30am-5.30pm. Info 029 2087 7959. On tomorrow also.

Cardiff Storytelling Circle Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 8pm, £4.

Info 029 2030 4400.

Cracking Good Code Trail National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 10am4pm, free. Info 01792 463980. (Until Sun 12) Cricket: Uni – Glamorgan v Cardiff MCCU SWALEC Stadium, Cardiff. Info 029 2040 9380.

(Finishes today) Cwmbran Craft Fayre Our Lady’s School Hall, Cwmbran. 1-4pm. Info cwmbran_crafts@hotmail. co.uk. Every first Sunday of the month.

Easter Egg Hunt National Roman Legion Museum, Caerleon. 2-4pm, £1. Info 029 2057 3550.

Egg Hunt National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff.

11am-4pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951. (Until Mon 6) Guided Tour: Dylan’s Swansea Dylan Thomas Centre, Swansea (starting point). 10.30am-12.30pm, £4-£10. Info 01792 463980.

Gymnastics: Rhythmic Grades Welsh Institute Of Sport, Cardiff. 9am-5pm.

BUZZ 63

events Info 0300 3003127.

Hedgerow Forage Brecon Beacons National Park. £15.

Info 01874 749092. A Good Day Out event.

Hockey: Wales v Switzerland Welsh Institute Of Sport, Cardiff.

9am-6pm. Info 0300 3003126. (Until Mon 6) Lab Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475.

(Until Sun 12) Star Tours Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (Until Sun 12) St Fagans Easter Hunt National History Museum, St Fagans. 11am-2pm, £2.

Info 029 2057 3500. (Until Mon 6) Supersonic Car Drawing Competition National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 12-3pm, free. Info 01792 463980. *Wrestling: Chikara UK Tour Masonic Hall, Cardiff.

3pm, £17.50. Info 029 2039 6576. Chikara is a purposefully zany, lucha libre-esque wrestling division based in Philadelphia; it’s visiting three cities on its UK tour and Attack! Pro Wrestling has brought them to Cardiff.

Might go to this, plus Wookie is playing about 50 yards away in Gwdihw the same evening.

MONDAY 6 Amazing Eggsperiments Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (On weekends until Sun 12) At Home With The Tudors National History Museum, St Fagans.

Free. Info 029 2057 3500.

(Finishes today) Balancing Birds & Butterflies National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 12.30-3.30pm, free. Info 01792 463980.

Design workshop for kids.

(Until Sat 11) Boutique Gift Markets Norwegian Church Arts Centre, Cardiff Bay. 10.30am-5.30pm. Info 029 2087 7959.

Chapter Moviemaker CIFF Special Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 6-8pm. Info 029 2030 4400. Launching the Cardiff Independent Film Festival, which is from Fri 17-Sun 19, two hours of selected shorts.

Cracking Good Code Trail National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 10am4pm, free. Info 01792 463980. (Until Sun 12) Craft And Gift Fair Margam Park Orangery, Port Talbot. £40/£25 to set up a stall. Info 01639 881635.

Egg Hunt National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff.

11am-4pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951. (Finishes today) Egg-straordinary Romans! National Roman Legion Museum, Caerleon.

11am-3pm, free. Info 029 2057 3550.

Football: Sky Bet Championship – Cardiff City v Bolton Wanderers Cardiff City Stadium, BUZZ 64

Cardiff. 3pm. Info 0845 3451400.

Hockey: Wales v Switzerland Welsh Institute Of Sport, Cardiff.

9am-6pm. Info 0300 3003126. (Finishes today) Northern Lingo Bingo Gwdihw, Cardiff. 7.30pm, free. Info 029 2039 7933.

This is a night which seems to feature people playing bingo and speaking in Yorkshire dialect.

Star Tours Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (Until Sun 12) St Fagans Easter Hunt National History Museum, St Fagans. 11am-2pm, £2. Info 029 2057 3500.

(Finishes today) Welsh Hula Hoop Convention Jacob’s Antiques, Cardiff. 11am8pm, £45. Info www. facebook.com/ welshhoopconvention.

Featuring hula hoop workshops from Lisa Lottie, Elliecoptor Hoops and Esther Fuge, various circus demos and an “inspirational video exchange” on lunch.

Write On Writers Morganstown Village Hall.

6.30-8.30pm. Info 07512 235758. An open group of writers who encourage others to write and also critique work. Here every first and third Monday of the month.

TUESDAY 7 Amazing Eggsperiments Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (On weekends until Sun 12) Balancing Birds & Butterflies National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 12.30-3.30pm, free. Info 01792 463980.

(Until Sat 11) Black Kettle Collective YMCA, Swansea. 5-7pm, free. Info 01792 516900.

Multifarious events for audiences aged 14-24, responding to events at the Glynn Vivian Gallery. Also on Tue 21.

Cracking Good Code Trail National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 10am4pm, free. Info 01792 463980. (Until Sun 12) Golf: 2015 Principality Junior Wales Open The Lake Course, Vale Resort, Vale Of Glamorgan. £20 to enter. Info 01633 413000.

Hawk Walk Brecon Beacons National Park. £45.

Info 01874 749092. A Good Day Out event.

I Spy... Nature Family Workshop National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff.

11am + 1pm + 3pm, free.

Info 029 2039 7951. (Until Sun 12) Lab Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475.

(Until Sun 12) Meet The Curator: Natural Sciences Gallery Talk National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff.

1.05pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951.

Pembrokeshire Falconry National Botanic Garden Of Wales, Carmarthenshire. £9.75/£4.95 kids over 5. Info 01558 667149. Two days of flying displays, static exhibitions, ‘Hold a Bird’ sessions and more. On tomorrow also.

Pond Dipping National History Museum, St Fagans.

11am-1pm + 2-4pm, free.

Info 029 2057 3500. Look for fish and newts in the Tannery. (Until Fri 10) Tudor Portraits Llantarnam Grange Arts Centre, Cwmbran. 10am3pm, £10.50/£8.50. Info 01633 483321.

WEDNESDAY 8 Amazing Eggsperiments Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (On weekends until Sun 12) Ask The Gardener: Planting Heritage Potatoes National History Museum, St Fagans. 2-3pm, free. Info 029 2057 3500.

Balancing Birds & Butterflies National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 12.30-3.30pm, free. Info 01792 463980.

(Until Sat 11) Celtic Jewellery Llantarnam Grange Arts Centre, Cwmbran. 10am3pm, £10.50/£8.50. Info 01633 483321.

Composting & Vermiculture The Abacus, Cardiff. 6.30-9pm, £15. Info hello@greencityevents. co.uk. Hosted by Green City Events.

Cracking Good Code Trail National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 10am4pm, free. Info 01792 463980. (Until Sun 12) Derek Acorah Theatr Brychieniog, Brecon.

7.30pm, £17.50/£16.50. Info 01874 611622.

Gift, Craft & Collectibles Fayre All Nations Centre, Heath, Cardiff. Free. Info info@cardiffgiftfayre.com.

(Until Fri 10) Golf: 2015 Principality Here In This Spring Dylan Thomas Centre, Swansea. 1-4pm, free. Info 01792 463980. Family dropin workshop suitable for all ages and abilities. Also on Fri 10.

I Spy... Nature Family Workshop National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff.

11am + 1pm + 3pm, free.

Info 029 2039 7951. (Until Sun 12) Junior Wales Open Langland Bay Gold Club, Gower, Swansea. £20 to enter. Info 01633 413000.

Lab Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475.

(Until Sun 12) Pembrokeshire Falconry National Botanic Garden Of Wales, Carmarthenshire. £9.75/£4.95 kids over 5. Info 01558 667149.

Pond Dipping National History Museum, St Fagans.

11am-1pm + 2-4pm, free.

Info 029 2057 3500. (Until Fri 10)

Rainbow Science National Waterfront Museum, Swansea.

11.30am, 1pm + 3pm, free.

Info 01792 463980. Jon Chase talks about rainbows.

(Until Fri 10) Scriveners Writers’ Group Royal Exchange, Brynmawr. 8pm. Info 01495 753629. Established group aiming to provide constructive criticism, help, advice and guidance to its members. Also on Wed 22.

Spoon Carving & Campfire Cookout Day Brecon Beacons National Park. £35. Info 01874 749092. A Good Day Out event.

Star Tours Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (Until Sun 12) Through The Keyhole National History Museum, St Fagans. Free. Info 029 2057 3500. Come and see a historic building brought to life through a living history demonstration. (Until Fri 10) What Ya Got? 10 Feet Tall, Cardiff. Free. Info 029 2022 8883. New open mic night incorporating music, poetry, storytelling, comedy, cabaret etc. Also on Wed 22.

THURSDAY 9 Amazing Eggsperiments Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (On weekends until Sun 12) Art Lunchtime Talk: A Passage To India – Two 18th Century Welshmen Abroad National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff. 1.05pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951.

Talk by Oliver Fairclough.

Aztec Masks Llantarnam Grange Arts Centre, Cwmbran. 10am-3pm, £10.50/£8.50. Info 01633 483321.

Bad Biddies Bingo 10 Feet Tall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £2. Info 029 2022 8883.

“Hello dears, Vera and Dilys here – freshly rejected from the WI and here with a brand new bingo night held every second Thursday of the month at 10 Feet Tall...” you get the idea.

Balancing Birds & Butterflies National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 12.30-3.30pm, free. Info 01792 463980.

(Until Sat 11) Cracking Good Code Trail National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 10am4pm, free. Info 01792 463980. (Until Sun 12) Derek Acorah Congress Theatre, Cwmbran. 7.30pm, £17.50. Info 01633 868239.

Gift, Craft & Collectibles Fayre All Nations Centre, Heath, Cardiff. Free. Info info@cardiffgiftfayre.com.

(Until Fri 10) Howl Mozarts, Swansea.

8pm-12am, free. Info 01792 649984. Poetry night.

I Spy... Nature Family Workshop National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff.

11am + 1pm + 3pm, free.

Info 029 2039 7951. (Until

Sun 12) Lab Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475.

(Until Sun 12) Pond Dipping National History Museum, St Fagans.

11am-1pm + 2-4pm, free.

Info 029 2057 3500. (Until Fri 10) Rainbow Science National Waterfront Museum, Swansea.

11.30am, 1pm + 3pm, free.

Info 01792 463980. (Until Fri 10) Star Tours Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (Until Sun 12) SWDFAS Lecture: The World Of William Shakespeare Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 2pm, £6.

Info 029 2030 4400. Lecture

by Nicole Mezey.

Through The Keyhole National History Museum, St Fagans. Free. Info 029 2057 3500. (Until Fri 10) FRIDAY 10 Amazing Eggsperiments Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (On weekends until Sun 12) Aztec Gods In Clay Llantarnam Grange Arts Centre, Cwmbran. 10am3pm, £10.50/£8.50. Info 01633 483321.

Balancing Birds & Butterflies National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 12.30-3.30pm, free. Info 01792 463980.

(Until Sat 11) Banff Mountain Film Festival New Theatre, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £13. Info 029 2087 8889.

Cracking Good Code Trail National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 10am4pm, free. Info 01792 463980. (Until Sun 12) Dinky Dragons Cardiff Story, The Hayes, Cardiff.

10am-3pm. Info 029 2078 8334. Babies and toddlers day. Rhyme Time is at 11am and 1pm.

Ghost Tour Cardiff Castle.

8.45pm, £14. Info 07538 878609. Also on Fri 17 and Fri 24 this month.

Gift, Craft & Collectibles Fayre All Nations Centre, Heath, Cardiff. Free. Info info@cardiffgiftfayre.com.

(Finishes today) Here In This Spring Dylan Thomas Centre, Swansea. 1-4pm, free. Info 01792 463980.

I Spy... Nature Family Workshop National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff.

11am + 1pm + 3pm, free.

Info 029 2039 7951. (Until Sun 12) Lab Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475.

(Until Sun 12) Laugharne Weekend: Day 1 Congregational Church, Laugharne. £75 (weekend ticket). Info enquiries@ thelaugharneweekend. com. Return of this literary and culture festival of note. Today pans out like this. Millennium Hall: 7pm Alexei Sayle; 9pm Chalkie

Davies & Chris Difford. The Congregational Church: 5.30pm Natalie Haynes; 7pm The Other Half (Mark Billingham & My Darling Clementine); 9.00pm John Hegley & Mab Jones. The Fountain Inn: 8pm Keith Allen presents Laugharne’s Got Talent. (Until Sun 12) Llandaff Ghost Walk City Cross, Cathedral Green, Llandaff (meeting point).

8.45pm, £8.50. Info 07538 878609.

Pond Dipping National History Museum, St Fagans.

11am-1pm + 2-4pm, free. Info 029 2057 3500.

(Finishes today) Pyramid Scheme III Little Man Coffee Co., Cardiff. 7.30pm,free.

Info 07933 844234.

Contemporary fiction and music night featuring Dan Tyte, Richard Owain Roberts, Tyler Keevil, Erin Mathias, Ashleigh Alexandra and Marc Thomas.

Rainbow Science National Waterfront Museum, Swansea.

11.30am, 1pm + 3pm, free. Info 01792 463980.

(Finishes today) Star Tours Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (Until Sun 12) Through The Keyhole National History Museum, St Fagans. Free. Info 029 2057 3500. (Finishes today) SATURDAY 11 Amazing Eggsperiments Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (On weekends until Sun 12) Annual Lecture With Wayne David MP Big Pit National Coal Museum, Blaenafon. 1.30pm, free.

Info 029 2057 3650. Talking about the 1984-85 miners’ strike.

Balancing Birds & Butterflies National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 12.30-3.30pm, free. Info 01792 463980.

(Finishes today) Bargoed Spring Fair Hanbury Square, Bargoed.

Free. Info 01443 866234.

Big Antiques Weekend National Botanic Garden Of Wales, Carmarthenshire.

Info 01558 667149.

Organised by Derwen Fairs (01267 220260). On tomorrow also.

Caerphilly Crafters Society Monthly Craft Fair Cenotaph Area, opposite Caerphilly Castle. Info 07866 776299.

Caerwent Craft Fayre Caerwent Village Hall, Monmouthshire. 2.304.30pm. Info cwmbran_ crafts@hotmail.co.uk.

Every second Saturday of the month.

Chepstow Farmers’ Market Cormeilles Square, Chepstow. 8.30am-1pm, free. Info 01291 626370.

Every second and fourth Saturday of the month.

Cracking Good Code Trail National Waterfront

events Museum, Swansea. 10am4pm, free. Info 01792 463980. (Until Sun 12) Craft Fair Cowbridge Town Hall. 9.30am-4pm. Info phil@wales-pictures.com.

Essential Bike Maintenance Cycle Training Wales, Gabalfa, Cardiff. 9.30am-4pm, £65.

Info www. cycletrainingwales.org.uk.

Farmers’ Market Twyn Community Centre, Caerphilly. 9.30am, free.

Info 01656 658963. Every second Saturday of the month.

Football: Barclays Premier League – Swansea City v Everton Liberty Stadium, Swansea.

12.45pm. Info 0870 400004.

Gymnastics: Compulsory Grades Welsh Institute Of Sport, Cardiff. 9am-5pm.

Info 0300 3003127.

Introduction To Canine Scent Work Brecon Beacons National Park. £35.

Info 01874 749092. A Good Day Out event.

I Spy... Nature Family Workshop National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff.

11am + 1pm + 3pm, free.

Info 029 2039 7951. (Until Sun 12) Knit & Sew National

History Museum, St Fagans.

11am-1pm, free. Info 029 2057 3500.

Lab Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475.

(Until Sun 12) Laugharne Weekend: Day 2 Congregational Church, Laugharne. £75 (weekend ticket). Info enquiries@ thelaugharneweekend.com.

Today’s lineup: Millennium Hall: 2pm Martin Rowson & Rick Edwards; 4pm Omid Djalili; 6pm Harry Hill; 8pm Dr John Cooper Clarke & Mike Garry.

Congregational Church: 2pm Jenny Colgan & Antonia Hodgson; 4pm Steve Hanley; 6pm Remembering Sandy Denny with Mick Houghton, Meic Stevens and Julie Murphy; 8pm Stornoway (Brian Briggs solo); 10pm R Seiliog & Richard James.

The Fountain Inn: 1pm Miles Hunt; 3pm Suzanne Moore; 5pm Marcus O’Dair; 8pm Keith Allen presents Laugharne’s Got Talent. The Cross Inn: 1pm Andy Miller; 3pm Richard King. (Until Sun 12) Llandaff Ghost Walk City Cross, Cathedral Green, Llandaff (meeting point).

8.45pm, £8.50. Info 07538

878609.

Meadow Seed Swap & Sowing National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff. 11am4pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951. Bring your seeds along to swap with other gardeners and help sow poppy seeds in the new urban meadow.

Mumbles Produce Market Seafront Car Park, Mumbles. 9am-1pm, free.

Info 01792 361012. Every second Saturday of the month.

Museum Ghost Walk National History Museum, St Fagans. 7-9pm, £15. Info 029 2057 3500.

Newport Craft Fayre The Gallery, Newport Indoor Market. 9am-4.30pm, free.

Info 01633 656656. Every second Saturday of the month.

Nimble Fingers Craft Fair Victoria Hall, Mumbles, Swansea. 10am4pm, free. Info 07790 298913. On the second Saturday of every month.

Pig Street Craft Fair The Queens Hall, Narberth.

10am-4pm, free. Info enquiries@pigstreetcrafts. co.uk.

Saturday Family Workshops YMCA,

RECORD STORE DAY Various record shops, Sat 18 Apr Admission: free. Info: 029 2022 4905 (Spillers) 029 2023 1803 (Retro-Vibe) / 029 2037 1231 (Oner) Founded in 2007 in an effort to publicise independent record shops and boost their coffers, Record Store Day is now equally profitable for folks who are willing to wait in a long line for several hours, snaffle highly prized limited edition records, run home and list them on eBay. More cheerfully, several local shops will be putting on special events. Spillers Records, in Morgan Arcade, have a live set from Liverpudlian indie duo The Lovely Eggs [pictured] and DJ sets from Penarth Soul Club and others. There’ll be a clutch of live bands TBC performing at Queen Street store Retro-Vibe Music, while Oner Signs on Church Street (not a record shop per se, but it does sell a few) has a hip-hop jam afternoon, featuring all or most of the MCs and DJs who are playing the Moon Club in the evening.

Swansea. 10am-1pm, free.

Info 01792 516900. Help to create The ‘Adventures Of Richard Glynn Vivian computer game based on Richard Glynn Vivian’s travels and collecting. Also on Sat 18.

Spotlight Tour National History Museum, St Fagans.

11am, 1pm + 3pm, free.

Info 029 2057 3500. oin a member of staff from St Fagans on a whistle-stop tour as they visit some of their favourite buildings.

Star Tours Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (Until Sun 12) Thrifty Kids / Lazy Crafternoons: Lampshades National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 11am + 1.30pm, £5/£2.50 kids. Info 01792 463980. Upcycling workshops: kids in the morning, adults in the afternoon.

Tudor Herbs & Hygiene National History Museum, St Fagans. 11am-1pm + 2-4pm, free. Info 029 2057 3500.

Welsh Craft Fair Red Dragon Centre, Cardiff Bay. £50 to set up a stall for two days. Info 07855 585114. On tomorrow also.

WWE Live Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff. 5pm, £30£60. Info 029 2022 4488.

With Randy Orton v Seth Rollins at the top of the card.

SUNDAY 12 Amazing Eggsperiments Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475.

(Finishes today) Badminton: Cardiff Junior Open Welsh Institute Of Sport, Cardiff.

9am-7pm. Info 0300 3003124.

Big Antiques Weekend National Botanic Garden Of Wales, Carmarthenshire.

Info 01558 667149.

Cracking Good Code Trail National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 10am4pm, free. Info 01792 463980. (Finishes today) I Spy... Nature Family Workshop National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff.

11am + 1pm + 3pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951.

(Finishes today) Lab Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475.

(Finishes today) Laugharne Weekend: Day 3 Congregational Church, Laugharne. £75 (weekend ticket). Info enquiries@ thelaugharneweekend. com. Today’s lineup: Millennium Hall: 2pm Sir Henry At Rawlinson’s End; 4pm Patrick Barkham; 6pm Francesca Martinez; 8pm Edwyn Collins. The Congregational Church: 2pm Topper Headon & Terry Williams; 4pm Mark Ellen & David Hepworth; 6pm Thurston Moore; 8pm Under Milk Wood with Rhys Ifans & Charlotte Church (invitation only). The Fountain Inn: 1pm Eddie

Butler & Malcolm Pryce; 3pm Meic Stevens; 5pm Mark Olson; 8pm Keith Allen presents Laugharne’s Got Talent. The Cross Inn: 1pm Liza Klaussmann & Francesca Rhydderch; 3pm Jo Mazelis & Clare Ferguson Walker. (Finishes today) Marina Market National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 10am-3pm. Info 01792 463980.

Star Tours Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. (Finishes today) Trevor Fishlock: A Gift Of Sunlight National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 2.30pm, free.

Info 01792 463980. Trev is talking about his recent book on the wealthy Davies sisters of Wales.

Wedding Fayre Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 11am4pm, free. Info 01656 815995. Presented by CJ Wedding Fayres.

Welsh Craft Fair Red Dragon Centre, Cardiff Bay. £50 to set up a stall for two days. Info 07855 585114.

Wendrich Art House Open Studio & Singing Trees Temple Gallery, Brickyard Cottages, Furnace, Llanelli. 12-5pm, free. Info www. wendricharthouse.com.

Exhibition of Tarot, Kabbalah and Temple Crafts, including meditation aids, incenses and astrological birth charts, with the opportunity to hear “the Music Of The Plants”. Also on Sun 19 and Sun 26.

MONDAY 13 Joy Of Living Mindfulness Group Meeting Gaia Yoga Studio, Roath, Cardiff. 7.30-9pm, free (donations welcome).

Info 07412 346054. On the second and fourth Monday of every month.

Velotech Gold Cycle Training Wales, Gabalfa, Cardiff. 9.30am-4pm, £450 (four days). Info www.cycletrainingwales.org.uk. (Until Thurs 16) TUESDAY 14 Behind The Scenes: Natural Sciences National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff. 1.05pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951.

Cardiff Science Cafe Porter’s, Cardiff. 6-8pm. Info info@porterscardiff.com.

Music Matters Gwdihw, Cardiff. 8pm, £1 entry. Info 029 2039 7933. Pop quiz, held every month.

Poetry With Mike Jenkins Pontardawe Arts Centre. 7.30pm, £4.50/£3.

Info 01792 863722.

Tea Dance Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 2-4pm, £4. Info 01656 815995. Also on Tue 28.

Velotech Gold Cycle Training Wales, Gabalfa, Cardiff. 9.30am-4pm, £450 (four days). Info www.cycletrainingwales.org.uk. (Until Thurs 16) West Wales Decorative &

Fine Arts Lecture Queens Hall, Narberth. 10.15am, £10. Info 01834 869323.

“Inn Signia: The Artwork and Stories behind Peculiar Pub Names’.

WEDNESDAY 15 Ask The Gardener: Sowing Seeds National History Museum, St Fagans.

2-3pm, free. Info 029 2057 3500.

Booklaunch: Susan Richardson Waterloo Tea, Wyndham Arcade, Cardiff.

7.30pm, free. Info susan@ susanrichardsonwriter. co.uk. Launching a poetry collection, Skindancing.

Homage To The Great War Poets Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 7.45pm, £2.50£5. Info 01970 623232.

Night of poetry from the Word Distillery Poets.

Spanjazz Record Night The Dingle Hotel, Narberth.

8pm, £5. Info 01834 869323.

Featuring audience choices of attendee’s own tunes on CD. Bring two of your jazz favourites to play!

Velotech Gold Cycle Training Wales, Gabalfa, Cardiff. 9.30am-4pm, £450 (four days). Info www.cycletrainingwales.org.uk. (Until Thurs 16) THURSDAY 16 Ash Dykes: Breaking Mongolia – The Lonely Snow Leopard Theatr Brychieniog, Brecon.

7.30pm, £12/£10. Info 01874 611622. Lecture from a guy who walked across Mongolia on his own.

Caitlin Moran St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £25.

Info 029 2087 8444. See Upfront for an interview which will surely leave you open-mouthed with delight.

Ticket price includes a copy of her new book... in paperback.

Cardiff’s Edwardian Parks Cardiff Castle. 6pm, £7.50. Info 029 2087 8100.

Lecture by Rosie James.

Music Geek Monthly 10 Feet Tall, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info 029 2022 8883.

Monthly album listening sessions, now in a new venue Tocyn Funding Advice Session Butetown History & Arts Centre, Cardiff Bay. 1-8pm, free. Info adam@ tocyn.org.

Velotech Gold Cycle Training Wales, Gabalfa, Cardiff. 9.30am-4pm, £450 (four days). Info www. cycletrainingwales.org.uk.

(Finishes today) FRIDAY 17 AiR Open Studio: Jessica Hoad YMCA, Swansea.

1-2pm, free. Info 01792 516900. Meet the current Artist In Residence in their studio.

Art Lunchtime Talk: Art, Love And War: The Davies Sisters Of Wales National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff. 1.05pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951. Talk by Trevor Fishlock.

BUZZ 65

events Cardiff Independent Film Festival Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 1pm.

Info 029 2030 4400. Today features screenings of The Masterclass, Aerobics: A Love Story, The Stomach, Une Bonne Affair, Paranoia Park, Resting Place and Terry And Brenda. More details at www.cardifffilmfest.org.uk.

(Until Sun 19) Ghost Tour Cardiff Castle.

10.15pm, £14. Info 07538 878609.

Quiz Night The Victoria Park, Cardiff. 8pm. Info clwbydiwc@gmail.com. A Clwb Y Diwc event. These were previously held in the Duke Of Clarence a few hundred yards away, but that’s now closed down. RIP, you were... a pub.

RHS Show Cardiff Cardiff Castle Parklands. 10am5.30pm, £12/£10 members (£8.50/£7.50 members adv).

Info 029 2087 8100. See Roundup. (Until Sun 19) Sessions The Riverfront, Newport. 5-11pm, £1. Info 01633 656757. Boutique market and open mic night.

So You Think You’re Smart? Memorial Hall, Newbridge. 7pm, free. Info 01495 243252. Quiz night, every third Friday of the month.

Stargazing With An Astronomer Venue TBC, nr Brecon. £55. Info 01874 749092. A Good Day Out event.

Surrealist Salon Gas Gallery, Aberystwyth.

7-9pm, £3 (suggested donation). Info peterstevensonart@gmail.com. “We will play games with words, images, and sounds to give voice to our minds,” say the

& Gallery, Cardiff. 10am4pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951.

Cardiff Independent Film Festival Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 1pm.

Info 029 2030 4400. Today features screenings of ManIslam: Islam And Masculinity, A Private Man, Sunday Dinner With The Morgans, The Hook Up, North V South and Queen & Country. (Until Sun 19) Claymation At Work National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 11.30am + 2.30pm, free. Info 01792 463980. Create a figure then bring it to life through digital stopmotion animation.

On tomorrow also.

Colourful Chemistry Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475.

Explore a world of colour at Techniquest and take part in some chemical reactions.

On tomorrow also, plus Sat 25 and Sun 26.

Craft Fair St Davids Church, Neath. 10.30am4pm, free. Info ariancrafts@hotmail.co.uk.

Enamelling Craft In The Bay, Cardiff Bay. 10.30am4.30pm, £55. Info 029 2048 4611. With Sophie Buckingham.

Experimental Felt Techniques Craft In The Bay, Cardiff Bay. 10.30am4.30pm, £55. Info 029 2048 4611. With Claire Cawte.

Football: Sky Bet Championship – Cardiff City v Millwall Cardiff City Stadium, Cardiff. 3pm.

Info 0845 3451400.

Giants Of The Solar System Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475. Don’t give Jupiter,

South Wales Silures are the first ever men's roller derby team to form in this region. Whether the general public will ever accept the idea that men are capable of playing roller derby remains to be seen, but on Sat 25 at Talybont Sports Village, Cardiff, they're making their case with two matches. Lincolnshire Rolling Thunder take on London's Southern Discomfort before SWS themselves face north-easterners Tyne & Fear. gallery.

SATURDAY 18 Beer In The Beacons Brecon Brewing + Brecon pubs TBC. Info 01874 749092. A Good Day Out event.

Brecon Craft Fair Market Hall, Brecon. 9am-4.30pm.

Info 01495 753782.

Cardiff Astronomy Festival National Museum BUZZ 66

Saturn, Uranus and Neptune the gasface, take a closer look at them in this show. On tomorrow also, then Sat 26 and Sun 26.

Gymnastics: National Prelims Welsh Institute Of Sport, Cardiff. 9am-5pm.

Info 0300 3003127. On tomorrow also.

Home Charcutier: Inspired By Southern Europe Humble By Nature,

Penalt, nr Monmouth.

10am-4pm, £120. Info 01600 714595. With Graham Waddington.

Lambing On An Organic Farm Venue TBC, nr Brecon. £40. Info 01874 749092. A Good Day Out event.

Lia’s Kitchen Roll Your Own Dolma Cooking Workshop & Lunch The Abacus, Cardiff. 11am-2pm, £35. Info 07870 131558.

Three hour workshop teaching you how to prepare, roll and cook your own vine leaf rice wraps.

Llandaff Ghost Walk City Cross, Cathedral Green, Llandaff (meeting point).

8.45pm, £8.50. Info 07538 878609.

Magna Carta & The Crises Of 1214-17 National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 11am, free. Info 01792 463980.

Talk by Daniel Power.

Nantgarw Craft Fair Nantgarw China Works.

11am-3pm, free. Info deb_0001@hotmail.co.uk.

Every third Saturday of the month.

National Bread Week: Meet The Miller National History Museum, St Fagans.

Free. Info 029 2057 3500.

On tomorrow also.

Photography Workshop: Beyond The Auto Button Dylan Thomas Centre, Swansea. 10am-1pm, £23.

Info 07952 747776. For photographers who would like to learn how to use the aperture, shutter speed and ISO. Record Store Day RetroVibe Music, Cardiff. 8am6pm, free. Info 029 2023 1803. With live bands TBC as well as the chance to queue up and buy limited picture disc reissues of Mad If Ya Don’t by the twins from Neighbours, Today’s The Day by Sean Maguire etc.

Record Store Day Spillers Records, Cardiff. 10am6pm, free. Info 029 2022 4905. Featuring a live set by The Lovely Eggs and various DJ sets from people including Liam Curtin (Penarth Soul Club) and Gwenno.

Record Store Day Jam/ Cypher Oner Signs/Graffiti, Cardiff. 11am-6pm. Info 029 2037 1231. Featuring a sale on vinyl and Oner merchandise, plus sets from these DJs (in chronological order): Alkemy, Slymoove, Killer Tom, DJ JB and Jaffa. MCs: Skinnyman, Pun Ra, Turna Phrase, BeSpoken, Dead Residents, Joe Dirt (Squid Ninjaz) and more TBC. RHS Show Cardiff Cardiff Castle Parklands. 10am5.30pm, £12/£10 members (£8.50/£7.50 members adv).

Info 029 2087 8100. (Until Sun 19) Saturday Family Workshops YMCA, Swansea. 10am-1pm, free.

Info 01792 516900.

SUNDAY 19 Cardiff Independent Film Festival Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 11am.

Info 029 2030 4400. Today features a Filmmakers’ Brunch (11am-1pm) and screenings of Si-O-Se-Pol, Serena, Everything For The Movies, Free Entry, Withering Heights, Sub Rosa and the CIFF Awards at 5.30pm. (Finishes today) Claymation At Work National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 11.30am + 2.30pm, free. Info 01792 463980.

Colourful Chemistry Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475.

Cricket: CC2 – Glamorgan v Surrey SWALEC Stadium, Cardiff.

Info 029 2040 9380. (Until Wed 22) Eternity With Love Wedding Fayre National History Museum, St Fagans.

11am-4pm, free. Info 029 2057 3500.

Giants Of The Solar System Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475.

Gymnastics: National Prelims Welsh Institute Of Sport, Cardiff. 9am-5pm.

Info 0300 3003127.

Llandaff Ghost Walk City Cross, Cathedral Green, Llandaff (meeting point).

8.45pm, £8.50. Info 07538 878609.

National Bread Week: Meet The Miller National History Museum, St Fagans.

Free. Info 029 2057 3500.

Plaster Mould Making Above the Courtyard Flower Shop, Penylan Rd, Cardiff.

10.30am-4pm. Info alisongraham79@yahoo. co.uk. Workshop hosted by Alison Graham.

RHS Show Cardiff Cardiff Castle Parklands. 10am4.30pm, £12/£10 members (£8.50/£7.50 members adv). Info 029 2087 8100.

(Finishes today) Sheep Trekking Venue TBC, Brecon Beacons. £35/£25 kids/free under-3s.

Info 01874 749092.

Tenovus 10K National Botanic Garden Of Wales, Carmarthenshire. Info 01558 667149. Annual charity run going through the garden grounds.

Traditional Afternoon Tea Norwegian Church Arts Centre, Cardiff Bay. 2pm, £12 per person. Info 029 2087 7959.

Wendrich Art House Open Studio & Singing Trees Temple Gallery, Brickyard Cottages, Furnace, Llanelli. 12-5pm, free. Info www. wendricharthouse.com.

Wild Garlic Forage & Bake Day Venue TBC, nr Aberglasney. £55. Info 01874 749092. A Good Day Out event.

MONDAY 20 Cardiff Freemasons Open Event Masonic Hall, Cardiff. 7-9pm. Info 029

2039 6576. Fancy learning about the wild world of freemasonry? Then come and get a tour of the building and the lowdown, or something approximating it, then just sit back and wait for the money to roll right in.

Cricket: CC2 – Glamorgan v Surrey SWALEC Stadium, Cardiff.

Info 029 2040 9380. (Until Wed 22) Gwd Mondays Quiz Gwdihw, Cardiff. 7.30pm, free. Info 029 2039 7933.

Harlem Globetrotters 2015 Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £15-£45.

Info 029 2022 4488. While a five-years-out-of-date Pepperami advert next to the urinals in Cardiff pub the Rummer Tavern insists that “BALL JUGGLING’S FOR SHOWOFFS”, for the Globetrotters it’s a way of entertaining people worldwide as well as promoting some good causes or other, I think.

TUESDAY 21 Behind The Scenes: Art National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff. 1.05pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951.

Black Kettle Collective YMCA, Swansea. 5-7pm, free. Info 01792 516900.

Cricket: CC2 – Glamorgan v Surrey SWALEC Stadium, Cardiff.

Info 029 2040 9380. (Until Wed 22) Explore Books National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 10.30am, free.

Info 01792 463980. Come along to discuss authors and books old and new. Also on Tue 28.

Scratch Night Carnegie House, Bridgend. 7.30pm.

Info 01656 815757. An opportunity to screen your film work at whatever stage of development.

WEDNESDAY 22 Cricket: CC2 – Glamorgan v Surrey SWALEC Stadium, Cardiff.

Info 029 2040 9380.

(Finishes today) Italian Fine Dining Evening Redhouse, Merthyr Tydfil. 7pm, £38.50.

Info 01685 384111.

New Welsh Short Stories Swansea Launch No Sign Wine Bar, Swansea. 7pm, free. Info 01792 465300.

Launch of an anthology, published by Seren, which aims to present a wealth of contemporary short-story writing talent from Wales.

Open Mic Spoken Word Extravaganza 12 Ye Olde Murenger, Newport. 7.30pm, £5/£3. Info 01633 263977.

Featuring Alan Drysdale, Phillip Gross, Bernard Pearson and Alan Roderick.

Scriveners Writers’ Group Royal Exchange, Brynmawr. 8pm. Info 01495 753629.

Spice Preview Night Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. Info 07429 598414.

A chance for you to go along

and see what you might get out of this adventure, activity, sports and social group.

Trecastle Dark Sky Discovery Site Launch Various venues, Trecastle.

Free. Info 01874 636433.

Featuring various talks and events in the town at a popup planetarium, plus some actual stargazing near the Roman road from 9pm What Ya Got? 10 Feet Tall, Cardiff. Free. Info 029 2022 8883.

THURSDAY 23 Betway Premier League Darts 2015 Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff. 6pm, £20£40. Info 029 2022 4488. I think this is sold out, but check back in the customary fashion.

Clear Cut M.A.D.E. Gallery & Shop, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £3. Info 029 2047 3373.

SVJdance and M.A.D.E themselves present “a cutting edge performance platform featuring dance, film, visual arts, music and theatre,” collated from submissions.

Design Stuff Cardiff 10 Feet Tall, Cardiff. 6.30pm, free. Info 029 2022 8883.

Various talks about design.

Book in advance please.

Fracking & The Imagination Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 9.30am3.45pm. Info 01970 623232.

“In the light of Ceredigion becoming the first frackfree local authority in Wales, we ask: what does that mean? What is the science and technology of fracking?” This is done via lots of panels, Q&As etc.

Afterwards, from 7.30pm, there’s live music upstairs from Quercus Burlesque, The Hittites, Mark Morgan, and Côr Gobaith.

FRIDAY 24 Agored Ride Leader Cycle Training Wales, Gabalfa, Cardiff. 9.30am4pm, £110. Info www.cycletrainingwales.org.uk.

Art Lunchtime Talk National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff. 1.05pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951. ‘“The Welsh girls are good fighters”: women’s work in Wales during the First World War’ by Thomas George.

Four Bars Swing Dempseys, Cardiff. 8pm, £5. Info 029 2023 9253.

Featuring a lindy hop class for beginners, followed by dancing to classic swing tracks.

Ghost Tour Cardiff Castle.

10.15pm, £14. Info 07538 878609.

Gymnastics: Men & Women’s Celtic Cup Welsh Institute Of Sport, Cardiff. 9am-5pm. Info 0300 3003127. On tomorrow also.

Llandaff Ghost Walk City Cross, Cathedral Green, Llandaff (meeting point).

8.45pm, £8.50. Info 07538 878609.

live music SATURDAY 25 Cardiff Waterways Walk Taff Feeder Bridge near Cardiff Castle (starting point). 10.30am-2.30pm, £5.

Info A tour through some of Cardiff’s historical wet spots in the company of Peter Finch, author of the Real Cardiff books.

Chepstow Farmers’ Market Cormeilles Square, Chepstow. 8.30am-1pm, free. Info 01291 626370.

Cider & Ale Fest Redhouse, Merthyr Tydfil.

12-6pm, free. Info 01685 384111.

Colourful Chemistry Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475.

Craft Fair Fabian Bay Congregational Church Hall, St Thomas, Swansea. 10am1pm, £10 to set up a stall.

Info pastorowenmizen@ virginmedia.com.

Craft Fair Rhiwderin Village Hall. 12-4pm, free.

Info 01633 810214.

Giants Of The Solar System Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475.

Glamorgan Iron Horse Vintage Society National History Museum, St Fagans.

10am-5pm, free. Info 029 2057 3500. On tomorrow also.

Football: Sky Bet Championship – Cardiff City v Blackpool Cardiff City Stadium, Cardiff. 3pm.

Info 0845 3451400.

Hockey: Cup Finals Welsh Institute Of Sport, Cardiff. 9am-6pm. Info 0300 3003126. On tomorrow also.

I Spy... Nature Workshops For Families National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff. 1-4pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951.

Llandaff Ghost Walk City Cross, Cathedral Green, Llandaff (meeting point).

8.45pm, £8.50. Info 07538 878609.

Museum Ghost Walk National History Museum, St Fagans. 7-9pm, £15. Info 029 2057 3500.

Onesie Walk City Hall, Cardiff (starting point).

11am-1pm, £5 to enter. Info info@gthc.org.uk. A George Thomas Hospice Care fundraising event.

Penarth BATS Nearly New Sale April 2015 Paget Rooms, Penarth.

2-3.30pm, £1. Info www. penarthbats.co.uk. Buy good quality babies’ and children’s clothing, toys, books, maternity wear, buggies and baby equipment.

Roller Derby: SWS Present The Premier League Round 2 Talybont Sports Village, Cardiff.

1pm, £12/£10 adv. Info www.swsrollerderby.co.uk.

Featuring Lincolnshire Rolling Thunder v Southern Discomfort at 2pm; South Wales Silures v Tyne & Fear at 4pm.

Rugby League: Judgement Day III Millennium Stadium, Cardiff. 2.30pm, £10. Info 08442 777888. Featuring

Cardiff Blues v Ospreys at 2.30pm; NG Dragons v Scarlets at 4.45pm.

Saturday Family Workshops Castle Square, Swansea. 11am-3pm, free.

Info 01792 516900. Launch of The Adventures Of Richard Glynn Vivian, the computer game.

Stargazing With An Astronomer Venue TBC, nr Brecon. £55. Info 01874 749092. A Good Day Out event.

Talk At 2 Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 2pm, free. Info 029 2030 4400.

Richard Higlett and Thomas Williams talk about the exhibition currently showing here (see Art listings).

Teddy Bears’ Picnic IKEA, Cardiff. £6. Info www. noahs-ark-appeal.org/event/ teddy-bears-picnic. Family charity event: bring your teddies and raise money for Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital For Wales.

Vintage & Handmade Pop-Up Fayre National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff.

10am-4pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951.

Willow Sculpture Craft In The Bay, Cardiff Bay. 10.30am-4.30pm, £55.

Info 029 2048 4611. With Melanie Bastier.

SUNDAY 26 Cardiff Geek Party Gwdihw, Cardiff. 5pm, free. Info 029 2039 7933.

Monthly gaming night focusing on retro consoles.

Colourful Chemistry Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475.

Food & Craft Market Llanyrafon Manor, Cwmbran. 11am-3pm, £30 to set up a stall. Info www. llanyrafonmanor.org..

Foraging: A Wild Taste Of The Hedgerow Humble

By Nature, Penalt, nr Monmouth. 10am-4pm, £95.

Info 01600 714595. With Liz Knight.

Giants Of The Solar System Techniquest, Cardiff Bay. Info 029 2047 5475.

Glamorgan Iron Horse Vintage Society National History Museum, St Fagans.

10am-5pm, free. Info 029 2057 3500.

Great British Dog Walk & Craft Fair Rhosilli Bay, Swansea. 10am-1pm, £30 to set up a stall. Info frances. kenneally@hearingdogs. org.uk. In aid of Hearing Dogs For Deaf People.

Gymnastics: Men & Women’s Celtic Cup Welsh Institute Of Sport, Cardiff. 9am-5pm. Info 0300 3003127.

Hockey: Cup Finals Welsh Institute Of Sport, Cardiff. 9am-6pm. Info 0300 3003126.

Mela 2015 Brangwyn Hall, Swansea. 1-6pm. Info 01792 475715. Featuring cookery demonstrations, saree tying, folk dancing, Yoga Pranayama Stall, fashion, jewellery, arts and crafts and henna

painting Newport Baby And Toddler Show Hilton Hotel, Newport. 11am-4pm, £3/£2.50 adv/kids free. Info www.mantisevents.co.uk.

Featuring 40 exhibitors and attractions, including local and national businesses/ organisations, innovative baby products and helpful advice from baby care experts.

Wendrich Art House Open Studio & Singing Trees Temple Gallery, Brickyard Cottages, Furnace, Llanelli. 12-5pm, free. Info www. wendricharthouse.com.

MONDAY 27 Joy Of Living Mindfulness Group Meeting Gaia Yoga Studio, Roath, Cardiff. 7.30-9pm, free (donations welcome).

Info 07412 346054.

Science Cafe: Steve Taylor Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 7.30pm, free. Info 01970 623232. With a talk called ‘Fast and deep: nuclear propulsion in submarines’. You’ve given it a suggestive title there Steve, and some people might get a bit salty about that, but not me.

Write On Writers Morganstown Village Hall.

6.30-8.30pm. Info 07512 235758.

hello@greencityevents. co.uk. Hosted by Green City Events.

Gymnastics: Aerobic Championships Welsh Institute Of Sport, Cardiff.

9am-5pm. Info 0300 3003127. (Until Sun 3 May) Taith Iaith National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff.

1.05pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951. Monthly session for Welsh learners.

Velvet Coalmine Launch Miners’ Institute, Blackwood. 7.30pm, £7.

Info 01495 227206. Preview of this multimedia artist event, held from Wed 2-Sun 6 Sept this year. Features poetry, interviews and music from the Bleedin Noses.

live music WEDNESDAY 1 Bandaoke Porter’s, Cardiff.

8pm. Info info@

porterscardiff.com. “Sing with a fully rehearsed band and become the Popstar you always dreamed of being.” *Caves + Pale Angels + Twisted + Deadlines Undertone, Cardiff. 8pm, £5. Info 029 2022 8883.

Punkish bands presented by DIY Cardiff.

Columbo + Pizzatramp Le Pub, Newport. 8pm. Info 01633 221477. Metal and German thrashcore, apparently.

Composition: Wales – Culmination Concert Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7pm, free. Info 029 2063 6464. Book in advance please.

Errors + Urbe Blanca + Boris A Bono Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 8pm, £13/£10 adv. Info 029 2023 2199.

Headliners have their new album reviewed in this issue.

First Wednesday The Riverfront, Newport. 1pm, £5.50/£4.50. Info 01633 656757. Lunchtime recital.

Gilas Hekselman Trio Dempseys, Cardiff. 9pm, £15. Info 029 2023 9253.

One o only three dates for this NYC jazz bassist.

King Goon + Sump + 100,000 Bodybags The Lemon Factory, Swansea.

7pm, £2. Info 07969 671379.

Open Mic Market Street Club, Barry. 8pm. Info 01446 733863. Every Wednesday.

Pete Oxley Nicolas Meier Quartet Jazzland, Swansea. 8.30-11pm, £10/£7 members. Info 07802 912789.

Phil Dando Big Band with Brian Crane & Heather Castle Whiteheads Sports & Social Club, Bassaleg, Newport.

8pm, £8. Info malc@ dancebands.plus.com.

South Wales Big Band Society gig.

Samoans Sin City, Swansea. 7.30pm, £6 adv.

Info 01792 468892.

Solid Silver 60s St David’s Hall, Cardiff.

7.30pm, £24-£28. Info 029 2087 8444. Featuring Billy J Kramer, Mike Pender, PP Arnold and The Merseybeats. In Swansea on Mon 13.

TUESDAY 28 Behind The Scenes: Archaeology National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff.

1.05pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951.

Explore Books National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 10.30am, free.

Info 01792 463980.

Tea Dance Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 2-4pm, £4. Info 01656 815995.

WEDNESDAY 29 Ask The Gardener: Staking Perennial Plants National History Museum, St Fagans. 2-3pm, free. Info 029 2057 3500.

Derek Acorah Ton Pentre Football Club, Treorchy.

7pm, £17.50 adv. Info www. tonpentreafc.com.

Presented by Born Events.

Natural Sciences Lunchtime Talk National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff.

1.05pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951. ‘A worm’s eye view of the Museum’ by Kate Mortimer-Jones, Marine Curator.

Reading Between The Wines The White Hart, Llangybi, nr Caerleon. 7pm.

Info lucyrewilliams@gmail. com. Monthly book club.

This month’s book is Mrs Dalloway by Virginia Woolf.

THURSDAY 30 AiR Talk: Jessica Hoad YMCA, Swansea. 5.30pm, free. Info 01792 516900.

Talk to the current Artist In Residence.

Cosmetics From The Beehive The Abacus, Cardiff. 6.30-9pm, £30. Info

RED SUN FESTIVAL The Full Moon / Clwb Ifor Bach / Fuel, Cardiff, Fri 1-Sun 3 May Tickets: £20 weekend. Info: www.redsunfestival.com This weekender is an idea whose time has come. Cardiff has shown its aptitude for multi-venue music fests in recent years, but for all Swn’s good ambassadorial work it tends to lack for metal and other ‘heavy’ music – a scene which has been buoyant in the city for a good while. This makes Red Sun, which spans three Womanby Street clubs over the first May bank holiday weekend, a very welcome development. There’ll be a sprawling 50 bands in total, ranging from noisy indie type fare to blistering grindcore madness, and many points in between. Among the numerous highlights, Buzz wishes to flag up London retro-rock champs The Admiral Sir Cloudsley Shovell [pictured], Bristolian heavy-shoegaze folks Thought Forms, progmeets-grind wizards Art Of Burning Water and a rare-these-days show from The Death Of Her Money.

BUZZ 67

live music

FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE Henry’s, Park Place, Cardiff, every Friday Admission: free. Info: 029 2022 4672 / www.henryscafebar.co.uk Located just off Cardiff’s Queen Street since 1988, there has been considerable upheaval to most of the area surrounding Henry’s in the 25-plus years hence. The bar/cafe, however, has stayed stoic and immovable – part of the city’s furniture, you might say, with only limited changes in its modus operandi. Starting about now, though, they’ll be pepping up the Friday night atmos with a weekly programme of live music – inspired, Henry’s claim, by a French brass band who turned up uninvited during the 2014 Six Nations, and prompted a rash of dancing. Their rota of four live acts all feature this month: Trigger’s Broom (Fri 3); The Brotherhood featuring Jon (Fri 10); Apple Tree Theory (Fri 17) and Jazz Soul Patrol (Fri 24).

The Foxglove Trio Pontyclun Institute Athletic Club. 7.30pm, £8/£5 members. Info 01443 226892. A Llantrisant Folk Club night.

The Leylines + Bity Booker + Toby Hay + David Roberts Gwdihw, Cardiff. 8pm, £4/£3. Info 029 2039 7933. A Folk In The Owl’s Nest gig.

Wolf Alice The Globe, Cardiff. 7pm, £12 adv. Info theglobevenue@gmail.com.

Indie band.

THURSDAY 2 Aidan Thorne Trio Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £5. Info 029 2038 7026.

Chas & Dave Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £27/£25. Info 01792 475715.

Jimjam Open Mic Session The Claude Hotel, Albany Road, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 07557 505123.

Every Thursday. This evening’s guest band is The Mighty Handful.

Novana + Simple As The

Dragonffli, Pontypool. 6pm, £5. Info gigs@thedragonffli. com. Nirvana tribute band headline.

Open Mic Night Lyceum Tavern, Newport. 8.30pm.

Info 01633 858636. Every thursday except when there’s a guest on.

The Blockheads + Arthur Q The Garage, Swansea. 8pm, £21.50 adv.

Info 01792 475147. Ian Dury’s band, without Ian Dury due to his non-living status.

The James Clode Band Gwdihw, Cardiff. 8pm, £4/£3. Info 029 2039 7933.

A Folk In The Owl’s Nest gig.

The Rum Slingers Porter’s, Cardiff. 8pm. Info info@porterscardiff.com.

The Wall The Queens Head, Monmouth. 8.45pm, free. Info 01600 712767.

Triptych Plas Hyfryd Hotel, Narberth. 7.30pm, £10-£13. Info 01834 869323.

A Span Arts Classical Music

Series performance.

Ward Thomas The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £11 adv.

Info theglobevenue@gmail. com. Jaunty country-rock ladies, currently on Radio 2 a lot with their single Town Called Ugley.

Xerath + Piss Viper + Extinction + Helldown + Etherian The Scene Club, Swansea. 7.30pm, £6 adv. Info 07730 432166.

Death metal from near and far.

FRIDAY 3 50th Good Friday Concert Parc & Dare, Treorchy. 7pm, £12/£10.

Info 0800 0147111.

Featuring Treorchy Male Choir and the Parc & Dare Band.

Andy Cutting & Fiddlebox Rhos Y Gilwen, Pembrokeshire. 8pm, £10.

Info 01239 841387. Folk duo.

Bigtopp + Captain Accident Warehouse54,

Newport. 8pm, £3/free before 9. Info 01633 259144.

Cut Ribbons The Masons Arms, Llanelli. 7.30pm, £3.

Info 01554 746627.

Dead Shed Jokers + Lacertilia + Tradish The Dragonffli, Pontypool.

6pm, £2. Info gigs@thedragonffli.com.

Drifted + Half-Cut Meze Lounge, Newport.

7.30pm. Info 01633 213161.

Heavyweight British deathcore band headline. Never heard them but fair play for not choosing a name which telegraphs exactly what they sound like.

Ferryman + Contra Verse The Dolls House, Abertillery. 7pm. Info 01495 213300.

Freeze The Atlantic + Bandicoot + Worried For Willis + The Scrotes The Scene Club, Swansea.

7pm. Info 07730 432166.

Trigger’s Broom Henry’s, Cardiff. 7pm, free. Info 029 2022 4672. One of the regular bands (others being The Brotherhood, Apple Tree Theory and Jazz Soul Patrol) playing on Friday evenings at this bar.

I Am Horse + Roka + Ellie Makes Music Dempseys, Cardiff. 8pm, £4.

Info 029 2023 9253.

Leighton Jones Salt, Cardiff Bay. 9pm, free. Info 029 2049 4375.

Live Acoustic Night The Pilot, Penarth. Free. Info 029 2071 0615. On the first Friday of each month.

Mayors Of Toronto + Enquiry + Amy Grindhouse Le Pub, Newport. 8pm, £3. Info 01633 221477. The headliners apparently play instrumental math-rock and their biog is just them going on about how rubbish they are.

I’m as tediously self-effacing as the next knobhead but it’s a bit OTT. Mermaid Quay Music Fest 2015 Mermaid Quay, Cardiff Bay. Free.

Info 029 2048 0077. This runs until Sun 12 in total, although the first four days is purely live music on the waterfront. The performers are as follows (dates and times TBC): John Adams, Nick Pendry, Ragsy, Mini Mix Girls, Morgan, Rocket Joe Joe & The Old Time Bangers, Natasha Hopkins, Stevie G, James Clode Band, Daniel Cadogan, Ellen Williams, Corrin Casini and Soul Lotta Funk.

(Until Mon 6) Mike Dennis The Full Moon, Cardiff. 8pm, free.

Info info@thefullmooncardiff.com.

Nico ZZ Band Café Jazz, Cardiff. 9pm, £4. Info 029 2038 7026. Blues.

Novana The Globe, Cardiff.

7.30pm, £10 adv. Info theglobevenue@gmail.com.

“Celebrating the life of Kurt

Cobains [sic] and the music of Nirvana on the anniversary of his death,” says the venue listing for this.

Two days earlier than the conclusion in the pathology report; maybe this is part of the whole conspiracy thing, who knows.

Olly Murs + Ella Eyre Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff.

7.30pm, £55/£39.50. Info 029 2022 4488. Kids must be putting on a hell of a show for that price, real Vegas glitz y’know? On tomorrow also.

Open Night The Ivy Bush, Pontardawe. 8pm. Info huwpudner@ntlworld.com.

A Valley Folk Club night.

Rye Milligan + Baked Goods Cellar Bar, Cardigan.

7.30pm, £5 adv. Info 07818 056599. “Think Ed Sheeran meets The Kooks divided

by MC Xander and Dub FX,” suggests the venue of the headliner. I’m thinking about it alright. Probably will be all week in fact.

Shalamar St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £35/£25.

Info 029 2087 8444. Funk veterans. We did a boxout preview for this last month.

Stillbust + Blue Collar Decade The Moon Club, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £5 adv. Info info@thefullmooncardiff. com. “Punk/hardcore/ drinking,” say the Moon’s listings, and now so do these ones.

The Gareth Evans And Bella Collins Duo The North Star, Cardiff. Free.

Info 029 2062 4050.

The Happenings The Yard, Cardiff. 9.15pm, free.

Info 029 2022 7577.

The Higher Bells + Kinky Wizzards + V0iD NosDa, Cardiff. 8pm. Info 029 2037 8866. This is a gig for the 37th birthday of someone called Gavin.

Congrats on reaching the big three-seven Gavin.

Trials + Derisive Entity + Lastinfur + Wastehound Workmen’s Hall, Caerphilly. 6pm, £3.

Info 07512 237983. Various local bands. The night will also include a DJ set from DJ Spectrum. *Wales Goes Pop! The Gate, Cardiff. 1.30pm, £12/£40 three days/free under-12s. Info 029 2048 3344. Third year not out for indiepop festival of distinction. Today’s lineup: The Pooh Sticks, The Lovely Eggs, Feature, Martha, Tyrannosaurus Dead, Cave Ghosts, Mowbird, The Catenary Wires, Jen Schande and Oh Peas!.

Followed by DJs Trev Odd Box Records vs Hue Pooh Sticks. (Until Sun 5) SATURDAY 4 All Cramped Up + The Dukes Of Bordello + The Rockin’ Sinners The Dolls House, Abertillery.

7pm. Info 01495 213300.

Headliners are a Cramps tribute band. Someone should definitely book them for Cardiff, I reckon people would be well up for it.

Aubrey Parsons The Golden Lion, Magor, Monmouthshire. 8.30pm, free. Info 01633 880312.

Buffalo Summer + Buck & Evans The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £8 adv. Info theglobevenue@gmail. com. These guys are from Swansea way and seem to be quite popular, which I hadn’t noticed. Typical liberal media.

Canute + Gareth Evans & Bella Collins Duo The Yard, Cardiff. 9.15pm, free.

Info 029 2022 7577.

Dave O’Higgins + Anita Wardell Rhos Y Gilwen, Pembrokeshire. 7.30pm, £15. Info 01239 841387.

Swinging jazz stuff.

Fidelio Trio St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 1pm. Info 029 2087 8444. Lunchtime concert inviting you to pay whatever you like.

GBH + The Sick Livers + Greazy Ratz Pyle British Legion, Bridgend.

7pm, £7. Info 01656 740210.

Veteran studs’n’leather punk band visit a small village named after Gomer Pyle aka Jim Nabors, who discovered it.

Ieuan Ellis The Royal Exchange, Cardiff. 9.30pm, free. Info 029 2056 4068.

Jumpin’ Jimmy & The Nice Guys Porter’s, Cardiff.

8pm. Info info@porterscardiff.com.

Kill The Ideal Meze Lounge, Newport. 7.30pm.

Info 01633 213161.

Mermaid Quay Music Fest 2015 Mermaid Quay, Cardiff Bay. Free. Info 029 2048 0077. (Until Mon 6) Messiah Dub Club The Full Moon, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info info@ thefullmooncardiff.com.

National Youth Wind Orchestra Of Wales Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 7pm, £4.50£9. Info 029 2039 1391. *Octa Sherman Cymru, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £10 adv.

Info 029 2064 6900. The return of this multimedia music evening, which was fun last year just so’s you know. Performing tonight: Cotton Wolf, Gwenno, Rhodri Brooks & Eugene Capper, Totem Terrors and Albatross Archive. DJs: Jakokoyak, Peski Records and Gareth Potter. Video art: John Ruddick, Casey Raymond and Nick Finch.

Olly Murs + Ella Eyre Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff.

7.30pm, £55/£39.50. Info 029 2022 4488.

Rammlied + Kid Crimson + Only Human The Dragonffli, Pontypool.

6pm, £6 adv. Info gigs@ thedragonf-

JUST ANNOUNCED FOR MAY: SUPER FURRY ANIMALS (Cardiff University Students Union, Fri 1-Sun 3) JON LANGFORD (Le Pub, Newport, Sat 2) UGLY DUCKLING (The Garage, Swansea, Sat 2; Gwdihw, Cardiff, Wed 13) THE WARLOCKS (The Globe, Cardiff, Mon 4) URIAH HEEP (Cardiff University, Thurs 7) PEOPLE UNDER THE STAIRS (Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff, BUZZ 68

live music fli.com. Headliners are a Rammstein tribute band.

Middle act are not a King Crimson tribute band.

Openers “just want to play music and have a laugh!”

Reign Of Fury + Fury + Among The Dead Fuel Bar, Cardiff. 8pm, £5 adv.

Info mail@givemefuel. co.uk. Opening band need to change their name to Among The Fury before it’s too late.

The Bleedin’ Noses NosDa, Cardiff. 8pm, free.

Info 029 2037 8866.

The Cradles + Delyth McLean + The Johnstown Flood Rhondda Hotel, Porth.

7.30pm, £5/£4 adv. Info 01443 682388. Presented by Born Events.

The Shamones Workmen’s Hall, Caerphilly. 7pm, £5/£4 adv. Info 07512 237983.

Ramones tribute band.

The Vestals + Houdini Dax + Voes The Project Space, Newport. Free. Info 01633 656638.

Tim Cronin The North Star, Cardiff. Free. Info 029 2062 4050.

Trench Foot + Americana Gold The Garage, Swansea. 8pm, £6 adv. Info 01792 475147.

Headliners are a Welsh folk band who sing about WWI. Wales Goes Pop! The Gate, Cardiff. 1.30pm, £15/£40 three days/ free under-12s. Info 029 2048 3344. Today’s lineup: Ballboy, PINS, Echo Lake, Oscar, Trust Fund, Tigercats, Tuff Love, The School, Emma Kupa, Tramgirl Karaokeclub feat.

Edine & Maskopet and Two White Cranes. Followed by DJs Ready Steady Girls vs Twisted By Design. (Until Sun 5) Will Wilde Band New Panteg Rugby Club, New Inn, Pontypool. 7.30pm, £10/£8 members. Info 01633 483238. A Borough Blues Club gig.

SUNDAY 5 ACDC UK + The Scorpyons The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £10 adv.

Info theglobevenue@gmail. com. Tribute bands.

Aubrey Parsons Atlantic Hotel, Porthcawl. 8pm, free.

Info 01656 785011.

Earl The Queens Head, Monmouth. 8.45pm, free.

Info 01600 712767.

Hogslayer + Thorun + Not Since The Accident + Gung Ho + Judgement The Moon Club, Cardiff. 5pm, £5 adv.

Info info@thefullmooncardiff.com. Charity show in aid of Owen Williams, as in the rugby player. *Lee Scratch Perry + Stephen Russell + Nakesha Esnard Portland House, Cardiff Bay. 7.30pm, £22. Info 029 2048 7602.

Inaugural live music event in this Bute Street venue, with petrol drinker, independent thinker and dub reggae studio tinker Scratch, plus band.

Interviewed in last month’s issue.

Liss Jones The North Star, Cardiff. Free. Info 029 2062 4050.

Mermaid Quay Music Fest 2015 Mermaid Quay, Cardiff Bay. Free. Info 029 2048 0077. (Until Mon 6) Mixalydia Gelligaled Inn, Rhondda. 4-7pm, free. Info 01443 438737.

The Boogie Men West End Club, Barry. 5pm, free. Info 07561 143114. Folk, rock, blues and beyond, promise the venue.

The Electric Swing Circus Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli.

7.30pm, £14/£12. Info 0845 2263510.

The Stiff Joints + Tree House Fire The Full Moon, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info info@thefullmooncardiff. com.

The Worried Men The Dolls House, Abertillery.

7pm, free. Info 01495 213300.

Tommy Xu Duo The Yard, Cardiff. 1-4pm, free. Info 029 2022 7577. Sunday jazz special.

Wales Goes Pop! The Gate, Cardiff. 2.30pm, £16/£40 three days/free under-12s. Info 029 2048 3344. Today’s lineup: Emmy The Great, Dreamers aka Duglas T Stewart & Chloe Philip from BMX Bandits, Freschard, The Drink, Jessica Pratt, Little My, Trwbador, Thomas Truax, Alpaca Sports and Barefoot Dance Of The Sea. Followed

by DJs Daytrip vs Wales Goes Pop!. (Finishes today) MONDAY 6 Donnie Joe’s American Swing Café Jazz, Cardiff.

8pm, £3/£2.50. Info 029 2038 7026.

Grown Up Music The Full Moon, Cardiff. 8pm, free.

Info info@ thefullmooncardiff.com.

Jam session presented by Pi & Hash.

Jango Haze Noah’s Yard, Swansea. 8pm. Info 01792 447360. Also here on Mon 27.

Live Original Broadcasts The Brewhouse, Cardiff.

8.30pm, free. Info 029 2039 9913. Every Monday, promoted by Big Scott and broadcast live online simultaneously.

Mermaid Quay Music Fest 2015 Mermaid Quay, Cardiff Bay. Free. Info 029 2048 0077. (Finishes today) Obey The Brave + Malevolence + Napoleon + Kublai Khan Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £8 adv. Info 029 2023 2199.

The Rumblestrutters + Viv Hinds-Payne 10 Feet Tall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £5.

Info 029 2022 8883. Playing this month’s edition of the Monday Blues night.

Ukulele Jam Session The Andrew Buchan, Cardiff.

8.30pm, free. Info 029 2021 2509. Every Monday.

TUESDAY 7 Acoustic Tuesday South Riverside Community Development Centre, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £5. Info 029 2030 4400. Regular event led by pioneering local musicians and singers.

Capital City Jazz Orchestra Dempseys, Cardiff. 8pm, £7/£5. Info 029 2023 9253.

Community Samba Band – Practise Dates Westenders Hall, Llanfaes, Brecon. 6-8pm, £4/£2 under-16s. Info sambabrecon@yahoo.co.uk.

Every Tuesday.

John Scantlebury Quartet Café Jazz, Cardiff.

8pm, £4.50/£4/£2 NUS. Info 029 2038 7026.

Mermaid Quay Music Fest 2015 Mermaid Quay, Cardiff Bay. Free. Info 029 2048 0077. The next four days will consist of interactive music and craft workshops for kids. (Until Fri 10) Tobias Robertson + Laz Lazarus Gwdihw, Cardiff.

7.30pm, free. Info 029 2039 7933. A Making Minds, Giving Voices event, providing a platform to up-andcoming musicians and spoken word artists in Cardiff, while raising awareness of mental health.

Young Kato + Peasants King + Only Shadows The Moon Club, Cardiff.

7pm, £8 adv. Info info@ thefullmooncardiff.com.

WEDNESDAY 8 *A Place To Bury Strangers + September Girls + Chain Of Flowers Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £11/£9.

Info 029 2023 2199. Noisy indie fare from the USA, Ireland and Wales respectively, presented by GB Live.

Christine Tobin Quintet Jazzland, Swansea. 8.3011pm, £10/£7 members.

Info 07802 912789.

Clare Hingott & Graham Watkins Trio Whiteheads Sports & Social Club, Bassaleg, Newport. 8pm, £8.

Info malc@ dancebands.plus.com.

South Wales Big Band Society gig.

Coffee Morning Concerts The Met, Abertillery. 11am, £2. Info 01495 355800.

Heavy On The Ride + Tomorrow Come The Wolves + Sump + Tradish The Lemon Factory, Swansea. 7pm, £2.

Info 07969 671379.

Mermaid Quay Music Fest 2015 Mermaid Quay, Cardiff Bay. Free. Info 029 2048 0077. (Until Fri 10) Open Mic Market Street Club, Barry. 8pm. Info 01446 733863.

Pride Screening + Tredegar Town Band Memorial Hall, Newbridge.

7pm, £5. Info 01495 243252.

The Tredegar Town Band are playing here and also feature in the film.

Thee Manatees + Rhodri Brooks Gwdihw, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £3. Info 029 2039 7933. EP launch for the headliners.

Tom Harrison Quartet Dempseys, Cardiff. 8pm, £7/£5. Info 029 2023 9253.

THURSDAY 9 An Evening With Julian Lloyd Webber Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 7.30pm, £18-£21. Info 01656 815995.

Elfen The City Arms, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2022 5258. Welsh folk.

Gurt + Pist + BongCauldron + Thorun The Moon Club, Cardiff.

7.30pm, £5 adv. Info info@ thefullmooncardiff.com.

Described in the blurb as “three of the UK’s biggest metal bands”. I’m going to charitably assume they meant big as in “they make a big racket”.

Jimjam Open Mic Session The Claude Hotel, Albany Road, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 07557 505123.

This evening’s guest band is Knight.

John Crespo Quintet Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £5. Info 029 2038 7026.

Lower Than Atlantis + We Are The Ocean + Pvris Y Plas, Cardiff University Students Union.

7pm, £12 adv. Info 029 2078 1458. Presented by GB Live.

Maddie Jones + Life In Cold Climates + Alex Stacey Gwdihw, Cardiff.

8pm, £4/£3. Info 029 2039 7933.

McBusted + New City Kings + Symmetry Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff.

7.30pm, £41.50. Info 029 2022 4488. On tomorrow also.

Mermaid Quay Music Fest 2015 Mermaid Quay, Cardiff Bay. Free. Info 029 2048 0077. (Until Fri 10) Open Mic Night Lyceum Tavern, Newport. 8.30pm.

Info 01633 858636.

Open Mic Night Salt, Cardiff Bay. 9pm, free. Info 029 2049 4375.

Silhouettes + Glass Giants + Fairview The Parrot, Carmarthen. 8pm, £3. Info 01267 236012.

The Avalanche Diaries + Confront The Carnage + Mercury Rising UK Fuel Bar, Cardiff. 7pm, £6/£4 adv. Info mail@givemefuel.co.uk.

The Mass Collective

Porters, Cardiff. 8pm.

Info info@porterscardiff. com. New music chosen

by Anthony Wickham and Alex Carr.

The Mouse Outfit + Applied Science + Culture Vultures Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £11/£9 adv. Info 029 2023 2199.

The Rumblestrutters The Open Hearth, Sebastopol, Pontypool. 7.30pm, £3. Info 01495 763752. An Open Hearth Acoustic night, on the second Thursday of every month.

London Calling The Moon Club, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £8 adv. Info info@thefullmooncardiff.com. Clash tribute.

Love Bazaar The Full Moon, Cardiff. 8pm, free.

Info info@thefullmooncardiff.com.

Lunchtime Classics Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl.

1-2pm, free. Info 01656 815995.

Marika Hackman St John’s Church, Canton, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12/£9 adv. Info 07960 820645.

Presented by Swn.

Akala visits Clwb Ifor Bach in Cardiff on Fri 24 Apr for his first appearance in these parts for a while. Notable among his past showings here was a support slot to Ice Cube, which gives you an idea of the London rapper's versatility: he's been praised for conscious lyrics which engage without preaching, but retains a tough edge. Jugganote and Turna Phrase will feature in support.

Turbowolf + Dolomite Mirror + Hyena Sin City, Swansea. 7.30pm, £9 adv.

Info 01792 468892.

FRIDAY 10 A Band Apart The Yard, Cardiff. 9.15pm, free. Info 029 2022 7577.

Alejandro Ziegler Quartet Small World Theatre, Cardigan. 7.30pm, £12. Info 01239 615952.

Globally acclaimed live tango band from Buenos Aires.

Aubrey Parsons Porter’s, Cardiff. 9pm. Info info@ porterscardiff.com.

Bute Quartet Congress Theatre, Cwmbran. 1pm, £6. Info 01633 868239.

Clarinet recital.

Colorama + EL Heath + Sixteen Tambourines The Globe At Hay, Hay-OnWye. 8pm, £5/£4 adv. Info 01497 821762.

Hark + Intensive Square + Thorun Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.3010pm, £8. Info 029 2023 2199. Rock and metal bands from these parts. Hark are in Swansea tomorrow.

Just Ice & Jill Jam Night Cellar Bar, Cardigan.

7.30pm, free. Info 07818 056599. I don’t think this is the 80s rapper Just Ice. But if it was, that would be a wacky occurrence for sure.

Laid Blak The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £9 adv. Info theglobevenue@gmail.com.

McBusted + New City Kings + Symmetry Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff.

7.30pm, £41.50. Info 029 2022 4488.

Mermaid Quay Music Fest 2015 Mermaid Quay, Cardiff Bay. Free. Info 029 2048 0077. (Finishes today) Police Bastard + Pizzatramp + State Of Decay The Dolls House, Abertillery. 7pm, free. Info 01495 213300. Crusty punk band named after a song

by Doom (who are also on their rock family tree) headline.

Raphael & Easy Skankers Blind Tiger, Newport. 8pm. Info 01633 213161. Italian roots reggae guy.

Rock Factor Kiwis, Cardiff.

9.30pm, free. Info 029 2039 8965. *Sly & The Family Drone + Spider Kitten + Heil Zilla The Abacus, Cardiff. 7pm. Info 07934 011061. Likely-to-be-lots-offun gig launching an exhibition, Look! No Hands!, which is listed in the Art listings.

Stand Up And Shout + Grim Citizens The Masons Arms, Llanelli. 7.30pm. Info 01554 746627.

Steady Hands + Cardinals + Calls Landing Le Pub, Newport.

8pm, free. Info 01633 221477.

The Brotherhood feat.

Fri 8) GEMMA HAYES (The Globe, Thurs 14) SWERVEDRIVER (Clwb Ifor Bach, Thurs 14) CHEATERS (Clwb Ifor Bach, Fri 15) J. COLE + PUSHA T (Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff, Sat 16) THE STRYPES (Paget Rooms, Penarth, Wed 20) GAZ COOMBES (The Gate, Cardiff, Sat 23) HEAVENS BASEMENT (The Globe, Wed 27) SON OF DAVE (The Moon Club, Cardiff, Fri 29) BUZZ 69

live music Jon Henry’s, Cardiff. 7pm, free. Info 029 2022 4672.

The Fortunate Few Café Jazz, Cardiff. 9pm, £4. Info 029 2038 7026. Blues.

The Stiff Joints Warehouse54, Newport.

8pm, £3/free before 9. Info 01633 259144. Ska-punk from Kidderminster.

Two Piece Sweet The North Star, Cardiff. Free.

Info 029 2062 4050.

Ultimate Elton Theatr Brychieniog, Brecon.

7.30pm, £20/£18. Info 01874 611622. Reg’s songs and look, paid tribute by one Paul Bacon.

Vant Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7-10pm, £4. Info 029 2023 2199. New rock band, in Swansea tomorrow.

Waking Aida + Right Hand Left Hand Undertone, Cardiff. 6.30pm, £6. Info 029 2022 8883.

Headliners play postrock stuff.

When We Were Wolves + Bad Sign Hobo’s, Bridgend. 7.30pm, free. Info www.hobosmusicvenue.com.

Zoax + Dead! + Clear The Auditorium Meze Lounge, Newport. 7.30pm.

Info 01633 213161.

SATURDAY 11 Bars & Melody Ebbw Vale Institute. 7pm, £20. Info 01495 708022. Sold out.

Still can’t believe there’s a band called this.

Ben Huws Duo Poets Corner, Roath, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2045 8714.

Chris Kelly The North Star, Cardiff. Free. Info 029 2062 4050.

Deathbullet + Dead Orse + Beneath The Divine Le Pub, Newport.

7pm, free. Info 01633 221477.

Dim Swn Gwdihw, Buffalo, Clwb Ifor Bach, The Moon Club, Dempseys and Undertone, Cardiff. £25/£12 14-17-year-olds. Info www. swnfest.com. See Music for more. The running order etc is still TBC as we go to print, but will feature these acts: 5th Spear, Alex Stacey, Astrosnooze, Asylums, Beach Baby, Birdcage, Bloody Knees, Brawlers, Broken Fires, Crushed Beaks, Delyth Mclean, East India Youth, En Garde, Estrons, Gang, Gulf, Jagaara, Keys, Laura Doggett, Luk, Lusts, Memory Clinic, Mixalydia, Neon Waltz, Novella,, Pretty Vicious, Rozi Plain, Shinies, Spectres, TIBET, Theo Verney, Titus Monk, Toby Hay, Trecco Beis, Twisted, Wall, Y Ffug and Zola Blood.

Evan Gardner + Abi Foster + Tyler Cuddy Wyeside Arts Centre, Builth Wells. 7.30pm, £5 adv. Info 01982 552555. A Wyeside Young Promoters gig.

Hark + Estuary Blacks + Heil Zilla The Garage, Swansea. 8pm, £21.50 adv.

Info 01792 475147. Ian Dury’s band, without Ian Dury due to his non-living status.

Lady Sings The Blues Theatr Hafren, Newtown.

7.45pm, £15/£13. Info 01686 614555. Billie Holiday tribute.

Mermaid Quay Music

Fest 2015 Mermaid Quay, Cardiff Bay. 11am-6pm, free. Info 029 2048 0077.

Today features 12 different choirs and soloists, performing in aid of Tenovus.

Monmouth Concert Orchestra Borough Theatre, Abergavenny.

7.30pm, £6/£3 under-16s.

Info 01873 850805.

Soul Lotta Funk Porter’s, Cardiff. 8pm. Info info@ porterscardiff.com. The amazingly named Soul Lotta Funk, as they are described near the front of this issue.

Spirit Of Song Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 7.30pm, £20. Info 0845 2263510. Featuring Aled Jones and the Hywel Girls’ Choir & Hywel Boy Singers.

The 4th Kind Kiwis, Cardiff. 9.30pm, free. Info 029 2039 8965.

The Courtesans + Peacemaker, Die! + The Kix Rhondda Hotel, Porth.

7.30pm, £5/£4 adv. Info 01443 682388. Presented by Born Events. The Kix are great (see the demo review section in this issue). The Courtesans have probably the worst band biog I’ve read this month.

Thee Manatees Clwb Y Bont, Pontypridd. 8pm. Info 01443 491424.

The Mean Mistreaters Cellar Bar, Cardigan.

7.30pm, £5 adv. Info 07818 056599.

The Men That Will Not Be Blamed For Nothing The Dolls House, Abertillery. 7pm. Info 01495 213300. Steampunk band

who feature a standup comedian and a Guardian journalist in their lineup.

Just gonna let that one marinate for a second.

The Mustangs Cardiff Central Library. 1pm, free.

Info 029 2078 0960. Pop/ rock band.

The Spokes Band + Tim Cronin The Yard, Cardiff.

9.15pm, free. Info 029 2022 7577.

Transmission – The Sound Of Joy Division The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £9 adv. Info theglobevenue@gmail.com. Tribute band.

Vant Sin City, Swansea.

7pm, £4 adv. Info 01792 468892.

Welsh Floyd The Dragonffli, Pontypool. 6pm, £7 adv. Info gigs@thedragonffli.com. Pink Floyd tribute band.

Young Singer Of The Year 2015 Taliesin Arts Centre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £12. Info 01792 602060.

Presented by the Dunvant Male Choir.

SUNDAY 12 BriBry + Dodie Clark The Globe, Cardiff. 6pm, £10 adv. Info theglobevenue@gmail.com. Two singer-songwriters who became popular on YouTube.

Burning Sky The Soul Suite, Pontypridd. 5-9pm, free. Info 01443 400059.

Featuring a set of Jam covers plus “other modern classics”.

Chris Hodgkins Hanbury Arms, Caerleon Uskside, Newport. 5.30pm. Info

01633 420361. One of four local dates for jazz trumpeter: also in Abergavenny (Tue 14), Monmouth (Wed 15) and Cardiff (Thurs 16).

Colorama Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 8pm, £8.

Info 029 2030 4400.

Gavin Davenport & Tom Kitching The Greyhound Inn, Oldwalls, Gower, Swansea. 8.30pm. Info 01792 850803. A Halfpenny Folk Club night.

Heavy Quartet The Queens Head, Monmouth.

8.45pm, free. Info 01600 712767.

Mermaid Quay Music Fest 2015 Mermaid Quay, Cardiff Bay. Free. Info 029 2048 0077. Today features local performers picked by Made In Cardiff TV, guarantors of quality that they are.

Final day of this festival.

Pale Angels + Jenks & The Nerds + Young Adventurers Exist Skatepark, Swansea. 5-8pm, £3 adv. Info 01792 654586.

Punk rock types, transatlantic ones in the case of the headliners Solo:Ensemble Rhos Y Gilwen, Pembrokeshire.

4-6pm, £8/£6. Info 01239 841387. Presented by the Newport Music Society.

Supatone The Yard, Cardiff. 1-4pm, free. Info 029 2022 7577. Sunday jazz special.

The Red Wine Serenaders Gwdihw, Cardiff. 8.30pm, £5. Info 029 2039 7933.

MONDAY 13 David Cooper Orton

The Sanctuary, University Hospital Of Wales, Heath Park, Cardiff. 1.10-1.55pm, free. Info david.c.orton@ gmail.com. Lunch-time concert by Penarth musician who uses various looping/ digital technologies to make expermental ambient music. This is also a 60th birthday gig of sorts.

Live Original Broadcasts The Brewhouse, Cardiff.

8.30pm, free. Info 029 2039 9913.

Solid Silver 60s Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £27.50/£25.50. Info 01792 475715.

The Cottle Family Trio Noah’s Yard, Swansea. 8pm.

Info 01792 447360.

Therapy? + Thirty Six Strategies The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £15 adv.

Info theglobevenue@gmail. com. Therapy?’s umpteenth album is reviewed in this issue. Support act at this gig might be worth getting in early for.

Ukulele Jam Session The Andrew Buchan, Cardiff.

8.30pm, free. Info 029 2021 2509.

TUESDAY 14 Atsuko Shimada Quartet Theatr Brychieniog, Brecon.

8pm, £6. Info 01874 611622.

Piano-led classic jazz, with alto sax, guitar, bass and drums. A Brecon Jazz Club gig.

Capital City Jazz Orchestra St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 8pm, £13.50. Info 029 2087 8444.

Céline Forrest &

live review MORRISSEY

Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff Wed 18 Mar Despite the passing of 30 years, Steven Patrick Morrissey has withered not and his unnerving passion for animal rights, anti-royalism and Tory-hating have barely abated in the availing years.

His gladioli-waving days may be behind him, but a consummate performance lifted even the most morose hearts of his eager Welsh fans. Who dare not fall in love again with the Mancunian, who revels in getting people’s backs up: the set’s opener The Queen Is Dead, a staple Smiths number and a red flag to the mainly fortysomething crowd, established the tone.

The barrage of cultural icons appearing on screen – Visage (notably the late Steve Strange), the New York Dolls, the Ramones, and Edith Sitwell – gave an insight into this enquiring mind.

At an evergreen 55, although he joked about being 32, Morrissey remains a passionate voice against animal suffering and cruelty. A barrage of sickening slaughterhouse imagery assaulted an audience, who probably weren’t expecting this vivid horror, but the message was received loud and clear. His self-proclaimed ‘animal protectionist’ title was all the more poignant for it.

His setlist may have been devoid of This Charming Man and The More You Ignore Me, The Closer I Get, but this didn’t detract from his iconic status. As a whole, the show stayed consistently inviting to the now-whooping throng. Morrissey remains a legend and a true pop icon, one who will not be swayed. His best was left for last and his encore First Of The Gang To Die sent the already dizzy with joy fans into a rapture of delight. Faultless. words ASHLEY HARRISON photos SIMON AYRE

JUST ANNOUNCED FOR JUNE: ROBYN HITCHCOCK (The Globe, Thurs 4) OWEN PALLETT (Portland House, Cardiff, Bay, Fri 5) PAOLO NUTINI (Singleton Park, Sat 20) EYEHATEGOD (The Globe, Mon 22) JUST ANNOUNCED FOR JULY: CAST (The Globe, Thurs 2) BURT BACHARACH (Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay, Sun 5) THE OVERTONES (St David’s Hall, BUZZ 70

live music Finnegan Downie Dear St David’s Hall, Cardiff.

1pm, £4.75-£6.75. Info 029 2087 8444.

Chris Hodgkins The Angel, Grosmont, Abergavenny. 8pm. Info 01981 240646.

Community Samba Band – Practise Dates Westenders Hall, Llanfaes, Brecon. 6-8pm, £4/£2 under-16s. Info sambabrecon@yahoo.co.uk. *Departure Kids + Twisted + Caramel The Abacus, Cardiff. 9pm, £5.

Info 07934 011061. Punk bands from France (headliners) and south Wales (t’other two).

Mounties Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.30-10.30pm, £12.50 adv. Info 029 2023 2199.

Preservation Rhythm Kings Café Jazz, Cardiff.

8pm, £4.50/£4/£2 NUS. Info 029 2038 7026.

Wonderbrass Dempseys, Cardiff. 8pm, £7/£5. Info 029 2023 9253.

WEDNESDAY 15 Acoustic Open Mic Night Redhouse, Merthyr Tydfil.

7-11pm, free/£2 to perform.

Info 01685 384111.

Ben Steer + The Luke Doherty Band Gwdihw, Cardiff. 8pm, £3. Info 029 2039 7933.

Blackhawk Big Band Whiteheads Sports & Social Club, Bassaleg, Newport.

8pm, £8. Info malc@dancebands.plus.com. South Wales Big Band Society gig.

Chris Hodgkins The Queens Head, Monmouth.

8.45pm, free. Info 01600 712767.

Dave O’Higgins With The Dave Cottle Trio Jazzland, Swansea. 8.3011pm, £10/£7 members.

Info 07802 912789.

Fluff Tongue + Attercopus + Uberchop + Greenmailer The Lemon Factory, Swansea.

7pm, £2. Info 07969 671379.

Gareth Roberts Band Dempseys, Cardiff. 8pm, £7/£5. Info 029 2023 9253.

Haddo Pontyclun Institute Athletic Club. 7.30pm, £8/£5 members. Info 01443 226892. A Llantrisant Folk Club night.

Ian Calford The Parrot, Carmarthen. 8pm, £3. Info 01267 231012. Rootsy country rock presented by Rockin Bones.

Kyshera + Gooding + Broken Chords The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £6 adv.

Info theglobevenue@gmail. com. Headliners are local prog-metal types whose new album we reviewed in last month’s Buzz.

Open Mic Market Street Club, Barry. 8pm. Info 01446 733863.

Stillbust + A Werewolf Sin City, Swansea. 7.30pm, £4 adv. Info 01792 468892.

The Amazons Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £5 adv. Info 029 2023 2199.

The Cradles + Denmark Street + Lockerhouse + Subjunctive Mood The Moon Club, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £5 adv. Info info@thefullmooncardiff.com. Lots of young Cardiff rock bands.

The Fureys Theatr Mwldan, Cardigan. 7.30pm, £18.50/£17. Info 01239 621200. Irish rabble rousers.

UB40 Featuring Ali, Astro & Mickey St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £32.50. Info 029 2087 8444.

The slightly embarrassing “our lawyers said we had to call ourselves this” name has not prevented a sellout gig.

THURSDAY 16 Atsuko Shimada Sugo Jazz, Penarth. 6.30pm, free (with your meal). Info 029 2070 9955. Jazz piano keyboard ballads from a player trained at the Berklee School Of Jazz. I think you have to get a meal if you want to watch this.

Backbeat Soundsystem + Tree House Fire + Junior Bill & The Scallies The Moon Club, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £6 adv. Info info@thefullmooncardiff. com. Reggae, ska etc.

Band Of Friends The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £15 adv. Info theglobevenue@ gmail.com. A loving tribute to the music of Rory Gallagher.

Best Opera Ever: Opera Legends Torch Theatre, Milford Haven. 7.30pm, £16/£15. Info 01646 695267.

“A stunning night of classical music from Katherine Jenkins to Pavarotti.” In truth I’m not as knowledgeable about opera as I could be, but I’m pretty confident that this is going to be the best opera ever, like the title says.

Chris Hodgkins/Dave Price Café Jazz, Cardiff.

8pm, £6/£5. Info 029 2038 7026. Album launch gig.

Jimjam Open Mic Session The Claude Hotel, Albany Road, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 07557 505123.

This evening’s guest band is Canada. Quite like this as a band name but can’t articulate why.

Kris Dollimore Angel Hotel, Llandeilo. 8pm. Info info@llandeiloacoustic. com.

Life Under Bombs + Esuna + Deadlines + Pipedream Gwdihw, Cardiff. 8pm, £3. Info 029 2039 7933.

Limehouse Lizzy Wyeside Arts Centre, Builth Wells.

8pm, £15 adv. Info 01982 552555. Thin Lizzy tribute band. In Cardiff tomorrow.

Nai Harvest + Best Friends Clwb Ifor Bach,

Cardiff. 7.30-10.30pm, £7 adv. Info 029 2023 2199.

Headliners play kind of grungey alt-rock and have an album out this month.

Only Men Aloud Pontardawe Arts Centre.

7.30pm, £16/£14. Info 01792 863722.

Open Mic Night Lyceum Tavern, Newport. 8.30pm.

Info 01633 858636.

The Two Kings The Gate, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12 adv.

Info 029 2048 3344. Three performers pay tribute to Michael Jackson, young Elvis and older Elvis respectively.

FRIDAY 17 Aleighcia Scott The North Star, Cardiff. Free. Info 029 2062 4050.

Alphabet Backwards + Remenbering August Dempseys, Cardiff. 8pm, £4.

Info 029 2023 9253.

Alright The Captain + Memory Of Elephants + Wicket The Moon Club, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £4 adv. Info info@ thefullmooncardiff.com.

Post-rock.

Anne Hill Rhys Prichard Hall, Llandovery. 7.30pm.

Info 01550 720258. With a choice of folk dances.

Apple Tree Theory Henry’s, Cardiff. 7pm, free.

Info 029 2022 4672.

Aubrey Parsons Tempus Bar, St David’s Hotel, Cardiff. 8.30pm, free. Info 0844 8246171.

BBC NOW: The Planets Brangwyn Hall, Swansea.

7.30pm, £10-£16. Info 01792 475715.

Big Mac’s Wholly Soul Band Memorial Hall, Newbridge. 7.30pm, £12.50 adv. Info 01495 243252.

Culture Shock + Grand Collapse + Not Since The Accident Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £10 adv. Info 029 2023 2199. Ska-punk band who share a frontman with The Subhumans.

Demoralizer + Alaska + Ancestors + Conflicts The Scene Club, Swansea.

7.30pm, £6 adv. Info 07730 432166.

Drop Dead Angus Meze Lounge, Newport. 7.30pm, free. Info 01633 213161.

Elvis Legacy Hamptons, Penarth. 7.30pm, £36. Info 029 2070 5391. Elvis will be played by Mark Summers, who is so committed to staying in character he will be pumping bullets into his five-course meal for being too healthy.

Evan Gardner + Delyth Mclean + Alex Stacey Parc & Dare, Treorchy. 7pm, £4 adv. Info 0800 0147111.

Fernhill The Ivy Bush, Pontardawe. 8pm. Info huwpudner@ntlworld.com.

A Valley Folk Club night.

Frank Hennessy Acapela, Pentyrch, Cardiff. 8pm,

£4-£15. Info 029 2089 0862.

Radio DJ, jovial folk singer and professional Cardiffian.

I listened to Kairdiff After Dark by his old band The Hennessys the other day.

You keep thinking he’s about to sing something problematic but he never quite does.

G4 Sherman Cymru, Cardiff.

7.30pm, £32.50/£75 VIP. Info 029 2064 6900. For £75 you get a meet and greet. I should bloody coco!

Glowglobes The Full Moon, Cardiff. 8pm, free.

Info info@thefullmooncardiff.com.

Jailbreak Great Hall, Cardiff University Students Union. 7pm, £20 adv.

Info 029 2078 1458. Twopronged tribute band night, hailing Thin Lizzy (Limehouse Lizzy) and AC/ DC (Livewire). Only Real Music Fans Will Get Why This Is Called ‘Jailbreak’.

Keys + Why We Love + Josh Evans Rhondda Hotel, Porth. 7.30pm, £5/£4 adv. Info 01443 682388.

Presented by Born Events.

Lonesome Stampede The Globe At Hay, Hay-OnWye. 8pm, free (donations accepted). Info 01497 821762.

Mariana Sadovska Pontardawe Arts Centre.

7.30pm, £10/£8/£1 family friendly. Info 01792 863722.

See Music.

Memphis Belle Cellar Bar, Cardigan. 7.30pm, £5 adv.

Info 07818 056599.

Porthcawl Jazz Festival Various venues, Porthcawl.

1-2 + 6-9.30pm, £40 (three days). Info 01656 815995.

See Music for more. Today features performances from Dave Cottle Solo Piano (1-2pm, Pavilion Café Bar ), Liberty Street Jazz Band (1-2pm, Trecco Bay), Rumblestrutters (6-7pm, Pavilion Cafe Bar) and Rhondda Symphony Pops Orchestra (7.30-9.30pm, Pavilion Main Hall). (Until Sun 19) Rhythm Bombers Café Jazz, Cardiff. 9pm, £4. Info 029 2038 7026. Blues.

Steve Howe St Donats Arts Centre, Vale Of Glamorgan.

7.30pm, £21.50/£20. Info 01446 779100. Solo set from a guy best known for being in Yes. I overheard someone in a record shop say he was going to this at the weekend. Little slice of my life for you there.

Tate Song Taliesin Arts Centre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £15/£13. Info 01792 602060.

Band led by jazz saxophonist Jean Toussaint.

Tattsyrup The Yard, Cardiff. 9.15pm, free. Info 029 2022 7577.

The Harry Fontaine Band Warehouse54, Newport. 8pm, £3/free before 9. Info 01633 259144.

The Loudhailers Kiwis,

Cardiff. 9.30pm, free. Info 029 2039 8965.

The Lushtones Salt, Cardiff Bay. 9pm, free. Info 029 2049 4375.

The Pleasures The Dolls House, Abertillery. 7pm, free. Info 01495 213300.

Neo-glam rock, apparently.

The Rumblestrutters The Kitchen Table, Mumbles, Swansea. 7pm. Info 01792 367616.

The Sick Livers + Trigger McPoopshute + Deadbeat Deluxe Le Pub, Newport. 7pm, £6/£5 adv.

Info 01633 221477.

The Simon & Garfunkel Story St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £18/£16.50.

Info 029 2087 8444.

Toyah & The Humans The Garage, Swansea. 8pm, £20 adv. Info 01792 475147.

Enduring pop siren Toyah with a band who include Bill Reiflin who played in every famous industrial band in the 90s, and later.

REM. SATURDAY 18 Amo Rex Cardiff Central Library. 1pm, free. Info 029 2078 0960. Singersongwriter.

Andy Huntley The North Star, Cardiff. Free. Info 029 2062 4050.

Arturo Serra LookOut Cafe/Bar, Cardiff Bay. 7.30pm, £6 adv. Info 07971 055811. Jazz.

Baggy Trousers The Garage, Swansea. 9pm, free. Info 01792 475147.

Madness tribute band.

BBC NOW: The Planets St David’s Hall, Cardiff.

7.30pm, £10-£32. Info 029 2087 8444. Thomas Søndergård conducts a programme of A Violence Of Gifts by BBC NOW’s resident composer Mark Bowden, plus Holst’s The Planets.

Bury Tomorrow + Polar + From Her Eyes Hobo’s, Bridgend. 8pm, £13/£10 adv.

Info www.hobosmusicvenue. com. Metalcore stuff.

Celine Dion Tribute Hamptons, Penarth.

7.30pm, £36. Info 029 2070 5391. With Joanne Lilly as Celine.

Claire Jones Theatr Mwldan, Cardigan. 7.30pm, £6-£14. Info 01239 621200.

Harpist.

Commemoration Of 100 Years Of Gallipoli Concert Torch Theatre, Milford Haven. 7.30pm, £10/£8. Info 01646 695267.

Presented by the Royal British Legion.

Fiddlebox National Botanic Garden Of Wales, Carmarthenshire. 2.30pm.

Info 01558 667149. Album launch gig for a band who mix Welsh folk and klezmer.

Geno Washington The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12.50 adv. Info theglobevenue@gmail.com.

Kookamunga Gwdihw, Cardiff. 9pm, £3. Info 029 2039 7933. Playing as part of the Péchés Mignons night.

Leighton Jones Band + Thoby Davis The Yard, Cardiff. 9.15pm, free. Info 029 2022 7577.

Lori Campbell Snails Deli, Rhiwbina, Cardiff.

7pm, £18 inc buffet. Info 029 2062 0415. Folk, soul and jazz combine in the stylings of this solo artist.

Seasick Steve told her: “Girl, I like what you do,” which probably wasn’t as lechy sounding as it reads.

Mike Peters Ebbw Vale Institute. 7pm, £15. Info 01495 708022. Doing a set centred round the Alarm album Strength, which we wrote about last month.

Miss May & The Magic Porter’s, Cardiff. 8pm. Info info@porterscardiff.com.

Monument Fuel Bar, Cardiff. 8pm, £5 adv. Info mail@ givemefuel.co.uk. “True British heavy metal” band featuring one of White Wizzard. Might be alright.

Morriston Orpheus Choir Annual Gala Concert Brangwyn Hall, Swansea.

6pm, £15 adv. Info 01792 475715. *Mr Vegas DC, Cardiff.

10pm, £5 adv/£10 VIP. Info 029 2039 9399. Dancehall legend, for a fiver. That is actually ridiculous.

Newport Folk Festival Graig Community Centre, Bassaleg, Newport. 12pm, free afternoon/£8 evening. Info 07983769350.

Featuring sets from Reg Meuross,,Huw Willians, Chris Morton, Ned Clamp, The Meg Cox Band and more. Also incorporating a beer and food festival.

Only Men Aloud The Riverfront, Newport.

7.30pm, £27. Info 01633 656757.

Pop Factor: The Concert!

Lyric Theatre, Carmarthen.

6.30pm, £12/£10. Info 0845 2263510.

Porthcawl Jazz Festival Various venues, Porthcawl.

1-9.30pm, £40 (three days).

Info 01656 815995. Today features John Mills Solo Piano (1-2pm, Pavilion Cafe Bar), Mock Thee Knot (1-2pm, Brentwood Hotel), John Stark Mainstreamers (2-3pm, Trecco Bay), Graham Watkins Quartet with Clare Hingott (2-3pm, Glamorgan Holiday Hotel), Porthcawl Rock Club (2-4pm, Seabank Hotel), San Sébastien Septet (3-4pm, Pavilion Main Hall), Gui Taveras Trio (3.30-4.30pm, Glamorgan Holiday Hotel), Junior Jazz open mic session (4-5pm, Seabank Hotel), Donnie Sweeney Quartet (4-5pm, Pavilion Stage Door), Eddie Parker Quartet

Cardiff, Tue 7) KARYN WHITE (Cardiff University, Sat 11) JAH WOBBLE (The Globe, Fri 24) GNOD + DEAD SEA APES (The Globe, Sat 25) STEELHOUSE FESTIVAL (Hafod-Y-Dafal Farm, Ebbw Vale, Sat 25 + Sun 26) XSTATIC IN THE PARK (venue TBC, Swansea, Sat 25) BUZZ 71

live music (4.30-5.30pm, Pavilion Main Hall), Liberty Street Jazz Band (5-6pm, Glamorgan Holiday Hotel), John Mills Solo Piano (6-7pm, Pavilion Cafe Bar) and Temperance Seven (7.30-9.30pm, Pavilion Main Hall). (Until Sun 19) Robin Williamson The Drill Hall, Chepstow.

7.30pm, £12/£10. Info www. poetryontheborder. org. A Poetry On The Border event with former Incredible String Band man Williamson telling stories and performing songs.

Simple Minds Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff. 6.30pm, £49.50/£39.50. Info 029 2022 4488. See Music.

Steve Tilston Mackenzie Hall, Brockweir, Chepstow.

7.30pm, £8 adv. Info 01291 689812. Playing as part of the Brockweir Spring Acoustic Music Festival, Steve has been called “one of the select band of songwriters with the vision to write great songs rooted in the tradition” by Robin Williamson. Think you owe him a pint for that Steve.

Come on, I’ll walk you over there, it’s not far.

Stillbust + A Werewolf + Constructor Le Pub, Newport. 8pm, £5. Info 01633 221477.

The Cradles + Mirror Gorillas + WetPainttt 10 Feet Tall, Cardiff. 7-10pm, free. Info 029 2022 8883.

Playing as part of the venue’s Record Store Day party.

The Eggmen Kiwis, Cardiff. 9.30pm, free. Info 029 2039 8965.

Three Kings High The Full Moon, Cardiff. 8pm,

free. Info info@thefullmooncardiff.com.

White Noise Sound + Zefur Wolves Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 8pm, £8/£7 adv. Info 029 2023 2199.

Album launch of sorts for WNS. Wright Hear Wright Now The Royal Exchange, Cardiff. 9.30pm, free. Info 029 2056 4068.

SUNDAY 19 Crazy Arm + Muncie Girls + Broken Cogs + American Graffiti Undertone, Cardiff. 8pm, £5. Info 029 2022 8883. DIY Cardiff’s second gig of April.

Eira/Snow The Queens Head, Monmouth. 8.45pm, free. Info 01600 712767.

Monmouth jazz duo influenced by 70s ECM. Sounds quite good this. I’ll listen to it later and get back to you.

Fingertrap + Beth Goudie Gwdihw, Cardiff.

2-6pm, £3/£2 kids. Info 029 2039 7933. Playing as part of the family-friendly Sunday Sunday event.

Glen Manby Quartet Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2030 4400. Jazz in the bar.

Naomi Rae Duo The Yard, Cardiff. 1-4pm, free. Info 029 2022 7577. Sunday jazz special.

Porthcawl Jazz Festival Various venues, Porthcawl.

11am-9.30pm, £40 (three days). Info 01656 815995.

Today features Trinity Church Jazz Service (11am12pm); Atsuko Shimada Solo Piano (1-2pm, Pavilion Cafe Bar), Madi Stimpson Trio (2-3pm, Brentwood Hotel), Arturo Serra/Juan Galliardo

Quartet (3-4pm, Pavilion Main Hall), Afternoon In Paris (3-4pm, Glamorgan Holiday Home), Simon Spillett Quartet (4-5pm, Pavilion Main Hall), Sarah Smith Quartet (5-6pm, Glamorgan Holiday Hotel), Jayne Sarah/Dan Phelps Duo (6-7pm, Pavilion Cafe Bar), Jeff Hooper Interview (6.45-7.30pm, Pavilion Main Hall), and Jeff Hooper & Swingeasy (7.30-9.30pm, Pavilion Main Hall).

(Finishes today) The Blow Monkeys The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £14 adv. Info theglobevenue@ gmail.com.

MONDAY 20 Attic Folk Sessions 10 Feet Tall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £4/£3. Info 029 2022 8883.

Dominic Norcross Quartet Noah’s Yard, Swansea. 8pm. Info 01792 447360.

Live Original Broadcasts The Brewhouse, Cardiff.

8.30pm, free. Info 029 2039 9913.

The Collective Dempseys, Cardiff. 8pm, £7/£5. Info 029 2023 9253.

Ukulele Jam Session The Andrew Buchan, Cardiff.

8.30pm, free. Info 029 2021 2509.

TUESDAY 21 Afternoon Concert With Stefan Asbury Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 2pm, £11.50-£13.50.

Info 029 2063 6464.

Afuriko Dempseys, Cardiff.

8pm, £7/£5. Info 029 2023 9253. African-inspired jazz duo.

Back To Bach: Huw Warren Cardiff University

The big news this month is the arrival, on Wed 22 Apr, of the 2015 BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards at The Wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff Bay. The prestigious event is sold out but those lucky enough to have a ticket will be treated to live performances from, among others, Yusuf Islam, Kate Rusby, Loudon Wainwright III and Wales’ very own 9Bach.

Those without tickets can watch highlights of the event on the BBC iPlayer, but if it’s a musical encounter with a real live person you’re looking for then Cardiff’s St. David’s Hall on the previous evening (Tue 21) could be the place to be, as one of America’s finest acoustic fingerstyle guitarists hits town.

Musician, teacher, musicologist, producer, folklorist and preserver of traditional blues, Stefan Grossman began playing the guitar when he was nine years old. In his teens he became interested in the American folk and blues revival and began listening to old recordings from the likes of Elizabeth Cotton, Big Bill Broonzy, Leadbelly, Lightin’ Hopkins and Reverend Gary Davis. When he was 15 Grossman became a student of Davis and spent many years learning from and documenting his music. He also met, befriended and studied guitar with many of the other great players of the time, including Mississippi John Hurt, Son House, Skip James and Mississippi Fred McDowell.

Emerging from New York’s vibrant Greenwich Village scene in the 1960s, Grossman has enjoyed a varied career that’s seen him work and record with some of America and Britain’s finest, from John Sebastien, Maria Muldaur and Steve Katz to Paul Simon, John Fahey, John Renbourn and Charlie Musselwhite.

BUZZ 72

Concert Hall. 7-9pm, £3-£10. Info 029 2087 4816.

Pianist performs a set titled The Art Of Improvisation.

Ben Howard Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff. 6.30pm, £27.50. Info 029 2022 4488.

Community Samba Band – Practise Dates Westenders Hall, Llanfaes, Brecon. 6-8pm, £4/£2 under-16s. Info sambabrecon@yahoo.co.uk.

Liberty Street Quartet Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £4.50/£4/£2 NUS. Info 029 2038 7026. *Ryley Walker + Leo James + Toby Hay Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 8pm, £6.50 adv. Info 029 2023 2199. Chicagoan folk guitarist with a superb new album reviewed in this issue. It would be really cool if some people actively chose to go to this over Ben Howard.

I know you won’t, I’m just saying it’d be nice.

Songbook Gwdihw, Cardiff.

7.30pm, £3. Info 029 2039 7933. Local singer-songwriter night.

Stefan Grossman St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 8pm, £13/£12 adv. Info 029 2087 8444. Acoustic blues guitar don. A Roots Unearthed gig.

Thomas Trotter St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 1pm, £4.75-£6.75. Info 029 2087 8444. Organ recital.

Wank For Peace + Guerilla Monsoon + Question The Mark + Not Since The Accident Le Pub, Newport. 7.30pm, £5 adv. Info 01633 221477.

Various punk bands, presented by Team Beard. The ribaldly-named headliners are from Angers, in France.

That’s a good town for a

punk band to come from.

WEDNESDAY 22 BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards 2015 Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7.30pm, £20-£27.50.

Info 029 2063 6464. Hosted

by Mark Radcliffe and Julie Fowlis; featuring performances from Yusuf (The Artist Formerly Known As Cat Stevens, yeah), Loudon Wainwright III, 9Bach and Kate Rusby. See Music. Sold out though sorry.

Dan Messore Attributed Quartet Jazzland, Swansea. 8.30-11pm, £10/£7 members. Info 07802 912789.

Dörner/Lash/Turner The Queens Head, Monmouth.

8.45pm, free. Info 01600 712767. Cool-sounding European free improv jazz stuff.

Frnkiero & The Celebration The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12 adv.

Info theglobevenue@gmail. com. GB Live presents a My Chemical Romance sideproject. One which is sold out.

Gerry Cross The Mersey Grand Theatre, Swansea.

7.30pm, £20/£18. Info 01792 475715. Gerry Marsden playing some Pacemakers songs, and talking about everything in his life which led up until this moment.

Hollow Tone + Black Light Machine + Saber + E11ven The Lemon Factory, Swansea. 7pm, £2.

Info 07969 671379.

Open Mic Market Street Club, Barry. 8pm. Info 01446 733863.

Parker & The Suitcase Gwdihw, Cardiff. 8pm, £4/£3. Info 029 2039 7933.

Rebecca Nash Quintet Dempseys, Cardiff. 8pm, £7/£5. Info 029 2023 9253.

THURSDAY 23 Amber Run Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.30-10pm, £8 adv. Info 029 2023 2199.

Some sort of polished new ballad band.

Belleville Rouge Porter’s, Cardiff. 8pm. Info info@ porterscardiff.com.

Blues Pills + RavenEye + Pearl Harts The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12 adv.

Info theglobevenue@gmail. com. Continental retro-rock band headline.

Evan Gardner + Tobias Robertson + Kaycee The Moon Club, Cardiff. 7pm, £4 adv. Info info@ thefullmooncardiff.com.

Headliner is launching his debut album, which was funded by fans and is called Love, Lust & Heartbreaks.

That’s not a good title, Evan!

Frank Yamma + Llewwen Steffan Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 8pm, £12. Info 029 2030 4400.

Australian Indigenous singer-songwriter headlines.

In Cardigan tomorrow.

Gecko The Full Moon, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info info@ thefullmooncardiff.com.

Jimjam Open Mic Session The Claude Hotel, Albany Road, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 07557 505123.

This evening’s guest band is Soul Lotta Funk.

Let’s Twist Again The Riverfront, Newport.

7.30pm, £20. Info 01633 656757. Rock’n’roll nostalgia show starring Chris Madin, who is or was on

Grossman has recorded prolifically, with dozens of albums encompassing a vast collection of traditional blues songs; his seminal instructional LP How To Play Blues Guitar was one of the most important guitar albums of the 1960s, and one that had a profound influence on an entire generation of young guitar players.

Following a lengthy break, Stefan Grossman resumed touring in 2006 and his concert in Cardiff is a rare opportunity to see one of the central figures in the entire history of the folk blues revival.

Buzz also recommends: ANDY CUTTING. One of English folk’s finest squeezebox players.

Rhosygilwen, Cilgerren, Pembs. (Fri 3) FERNHILL. Music from the edge of an island. Valley Folk Club, Ivy Bush Hotel, Pontardawe. (Fri 17) MIRANDA SYKES & REX PRESTON. Double bass and mandolin in perfect harmony. Pontardawe Arts Centre. (Thurs 23) Please send your folk and roots listings to listings@buzzmag.co.uk or phone them in to 029 2022 7677

live music Strictly Come Dancing.

Miranda Sykes & Rex Preston Pontardawe Arts Centre. 7.30pm, £12/£10.

Info 01792 863722. Folk.

Open Mic Night Salt, Cardiff Bay. 9pm, free. Info 029 2049 4375.

Red Moon Road Lyceum Tavern, Newport. 8pm. Info 01633 858636. A Lyceum Folk Club night.

Rhydian Theatr Hafren, Newtown. 7.30pm, £26. Info 01686 614555.

Slipstone The City Arms, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2022 5258.

The Magic Of Motown St David’s Hall, Cardiff.

7.30pm, £24.50. Info 029 2087 8444.

The Undivided + Glas Giants + Clear The Auditorium Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.30-10.30pm, £5. Info 029 2023 2199.

The Wicked Whispers + Mixalydia + The Red Tongued Dogs Gwdihw, Cardiff. 8pm, £5. Info 029 2039 7933.

Will Barnes’ Inspector Gadjo Band Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £6/£5. Info 029 2038 7026.

FRIDAY 24 Akala + Jugganote + Turna Phrase Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £15/£12 adv. Info 029 2023 2199.

Aubrey Parsons Blanco’s Hotel, Port Talbot. 9pm, free. Info 01639 864500.

Best Supporting Actors The Yard, Cardiff. 9.15pm, free. Info 029 2022 7577.

Chris Kelly Bella Capri, Caerphilly. Free. Info info@ bellacapri.co.uk.

Diamond Nights Hamptons, Penarth.

7.30pm, £36. Info 029 2070 5391. With Jeff Phillips as Neil Diamond, accompanying a five-course meal.

I think there is actually a band called Diamond Nights now. Some indie thing.

ELO Again Lyric Theatre, Carmarthen. 8pm, £18. Info 0845 2263510. ELO tribute.

Frank Yamma + Lleuwen Steffan Theatr Mwldan, Cardigan. 7.30pm, £13/£12. Info 01239 621200.

Fur + Zac White Pedal Power Cafe, Pontcanna, Cardiff. £15 adv. Info www. cardiffpedalpower.org. New series of monthly nights curated by Newsoundwales and hosted by Pedal Power, a cycling charity working with disabled people. Price includes dinner.

Green Haze The Dolls House, Abertillery. 7pm, free. Info 01495 213300.

Green Day tribute band.

Heritage + Incarcerate Meze Lounge, Newport.

7.30pm, free. Info 01633 213161. Two metalcore band signed to the We Are Triumphant label.

Hideaway Trio Café Jazz, Cardiff. 9pm, £4. Info 029 2038 7026. Blues.

Jazz Soul Patrol Henry’s,

Cardiff. 7pm, free. Info 029 2022 4672.

Max Raptor + Brawlersw + Nineteen Fifty Eight + Water Rats + Worried For Wilis The Scene Club, Swansea. 7pm. Info 07730 432166.

Money For Nothing The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £11 adv. Info theglobevenue@ gmail.com. Dire Straits tribute.

Organ Recital National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff.

1pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951.

Paul Ashton The North Star, Cardiff. Free. Info 029 2062 4050.

Pizzatramp Le Pub, Newport. 8pm. Info 01633 221477.

Scott Cooke & Jez Hellard + JC’s Hopeful Sinners The Moon Club, Cardiff. 7pm, £5 adv. Info info@ thefullmooncardiff.com.

She Says Kiwis, Cardiff.

9.30pm, free. Info 029 2039 8965.

The Convicts Warehouse54, Newport.

8pm, £3/free before 9. Info 01633 259144.

The Mayor Of Brecon’s Charity Concert Theatr Brychieniog, Brecon.

7.30pm, £15/£12. Info 01874 611622.

Villagers The Gate, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £15 adv.

Info 029 2048 3344. Irish indie-folk band, presented

by Orchard.

Winter Villains + The Bevvy Sisters The Globe At Hay, Hay-On-Wye. 8pm, £3-£5. Info 01497 821762.

SATURDAY 25 Aberystwyth Choral Society Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 8pm, £2-£12. Info 01970 623232.

All Strung Out Norwegian Church Arts Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7.30pm, £8.50. Info 029 2087 7959. Guitar duo. *CAM 15 Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 5.30pm, £12 adv. Info 029 2063 6464. Fantastic looking event hosted by Peski and featuring sets from Datblygu, R. Seiliog, Y Pencadlys and Ela Orleans.

In the case of Datblygu, this is their first gig for 20 years, which makes it kind of a big deal! There’s a free programme of film screenings etc from 12-6pm also.

Cardiff Bach Choir Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £17.50/£10/under-16s free.

Info 029 2039 1391.

Colibri Soul + Chris Kelly The Yard, Cardiff.

9.15pm, free. Info 029 2022 7577.

Côr Curiad Llanelli Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 7pm, £27.50/£22.50. Info 0845 2263510. With special guest Paul Potts.

Creatures Of Habit Acapela, Pentyrch, Cardiff.

7.30pm, £5 adv. Info 029 2089 0862. Charity gig in

aid of FOPSA (Friends Of Pentyrch School Association).

Diamond Dogz The Dragonffli, Pontypool. 6pm, £5 adv. Info gigs@thedragonffli.com. Paying tribute to Bowie and other 70s glam rock.

Hayseed Dixie The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £16 adv.

Info theglobevenue@gmail. com.

Last Grest Dreamers The Dolls House, Abertillery.

7pm, free. Info 01495 213300.

Man Overboard + Moose Blood + Roam + Smile & Burn Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £11/£8. Info 029 2023 2199.

Pop-punk stuff, presented

by GB Live.

Mike & The Mechanics + James Walsh St David’s Hall, Cardiff.

7.30pm, £35/£30. Info 029 2087 8444. James Walsh used to be the singer in Starsailor. I’ll stay by the bar for this one, I’m not really into this alternative music. I prefer stuff like [thinks for a minute] Mike & The Mechanics.

Palma Violets Buffalo, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12 adv. Info 029 2031 0312.

Brummie indie lads, presented here by Swn. Puma Creek The Globe At Hay, Hay-On-Wye. 8pm, £3-£5. Info 01497 821762.

Riff Raff Hobo’s, Bridgend.

8pm, free. Info www. hobosmusicvenue.com. AC/ DC tribute band.

Rocket Joe Joe And The Old Time Bangers Porters, Cardiff. 8pm. Info info@porterscardiff.com.

Soul & Motown Hamptons, Penarth.

7.30pm, £36. Info 029 2070 5391. A five-course meal is pepped up by Nat Augustin, who sings some of the best soul and Motown ever written.

Soul Lotta Funk Kiwis, Cardiff. 9.30pm, free. Info 029 2039 8965.

That’ll Be The Day Theatr Hafren, Newtown.

7.30pm, £23.50/£22.50. Info 01686 614555.

The Hollywood Bees Beaufort Theatre, Ebbw Vale. 8pm, £14/£12. Info 01495 355800.

The Jam DRC The Lemon Factory, Swansea. 7pm, £8 adv. Info 07969 671379.

Jam tribute band.

Thoby Davis Poets Corner, Roath, Cardiff. 9pm, free.

Info 029 2045 8714.

Welsh Musical Theatre Orchestra Taliesin Arts Centre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £16.50/£15.50. Info 01792 602060.

Wright Hear Wright Now The North Star, Cardiff.

Free. Info 029 2062 4050.

SUNDAY 26 Bellville Swing The Queens Head, Monmouth.

8.45pm, free. Info 01600 712767.

Duke Special + Thomas

Truax The Globe, Cardiff.

7pm, £14 adv. Info theglobevenue@gmail.com.

Special seated show. Where will they get the seats from?

Will they be comfortable?

All will be revealed.

Dyfed Young Composers Competition Rhos Y Gilwen, Pembrokeshire.

3.30pm. Info 01239 841387.

Lunchtime Concert National Museum & Gallery, Cardiff. 1pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951. Featuring RWCMD sutdents.

Pete Komor The Yard, Cardiff. 1-4pm, free. Info 029 2022 7577. Sunday jazz special.

Rhydian Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 7.30pm, £26.

Info 01656 815995.

Sunday Live Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 2.304.30pm, free. Info 01656 815995. Listen to live music and enjoy a snack and a nice view.

Talon Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 8pm, £11-£22. Info 01970 623232. Eagles tribute band.

Tamsin Reardon’s Ad Lib The King’s Arms, Abergavenny. 8pm, £10/£8.

Info 07958 612691. A Black Mountain Jazz night, with Tamsin leading the band on alto sax.

The Hollies St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £29.50/£26.50. Info 029 2087 8444.

The Oppressed + The Bois + The D Teez + The Phucks The Moon Club, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £5 adv. Info info@thefullmooncardiff.com. Antifascist Oi! headliners, now in the game for over 30 years.

MONDAY 27 Astroid Boys Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.30-11pm, £7 adv. Info 029 2023 2199.

Blues & Jazz Club Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 8pm, £8.

Info 0845 2263510. With house band The Groucho Club.

Easy Street Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £3/£2.50. Info 029 2038 7026.

Gwd Mondays Open Mic Gwdihw, Cardiff. 7.30pm, free. Info 029 2039 7933.

Jam Session Dempseys, Cardiff. 8pm, £7/£5. Info 029 2023 9253.

Jango Haze Noah’s Yard, Swansea. 8pm. Info 01792 447360.

Live Original Broadcasts The Brewhouse, Cardiff.

8.30pm, free. Info 029 2039 9913.

Noah Stewart Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £27.50/£22. Info 029 2039 1391. Acclaimed tenor from Harlem.

The Twilight Sad The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12 adv. Info theglobevenue@ gmail.com. Glum, vaguely shoegazey Scots rock band.

Ukulele Jam Session The Andrew Buchan, Cardiff.

8.30pm, free. Info 029 2021

2509.

Van Morrison St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 8pm, £45-£75.

Info 029 2087 8444. I wonder how Van would react if we got front row seats and constantly shouted requests from his infamous ‘contractual obligation’ album. Most likely with a gleeful chuckle, a heartfelt thanks for being such big fans of his work, and a suggestion we come backstage afterwards for a beer and a bag of money.

Yamato Drummers Of Japan Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7.30pm, £18-£36. Info 029 2063 6464. Display of the Taiko drumming style.

TUESDAY 28 Albert Hammond The Riverfront, Newport.

7.30pm, £22.50/£20.50.

Info 01633 656757. Hit songwriter steps out from behind wherever it is that hit songwriters write their hit songs for a live show.

His son is in The Strokes, you know. And there’s a Half Man Half Biscuit song called Albert Hammond Bootleg, for some reason.

Camelia Jazz Band Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £4.50/£4/£2 NUS. Info 029 2038 7026.

Community Samba Band – Practise Dates Westenders Hall, Llanfaes, Brecon. 6-8pm, £4/£2 under-16s. Info sambabrecon@yahoo.co.uk.

Composition Showcase Cardiff University Concert Hall. 7-9pm, free. Info 029 2087 4816.

Diane Cluck + Will Newsome + Phil King The Moon Club, Cardiff.

7pm, £8 adv. Info info@ thefullmooncardiff.com.

Indie-folk artist Cluck headlines, first time in Cardiff for a fair few years.

Eugene Capper + Zeuk + Fur + Partizans Fields Gwdihw, Cardiff.

7pm, £5. Info 029 2039 7933. A fundraiser for the Seahorse Trust, hosted by Marc from Zeuk.

Mike Collins Quartet Dempseys, Cardiff. 8pm, £7/£5. Info 029 2023 9253.

Monthly Sitters In Night Jazzland, Swansea. 7.30pm, free. Info 07802 912789.

Seasick Steve St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £23.50. Info 029 2087 8444.

See Upfront for a profile of Stephen Seasickington III, to give him his full name.

Sold out BTW. The NosDa Sessions NosDa, Cardiff. 8pm. Info 029 2037 8866. Subtitled ‘Invited Jam Night’.

WEDNESDAY 29 Aidan Thorne’s Duski Dempseys, Cardiff. 8pm, £7/£5. Info 029 2023 9253.

Cotton Wolf + Karenin Gwdihw, Cardiff. 8pm, £4. Info 029 2039 7933.

Launch party for a new night called All My Friends.

Direct Hit + Maladroit

+ Broken Cogs + Deadlines Le Pub, Newport. 7pm, £5 adv. Info 01633 221477. Various punk bands, again presented by Team Beard.

Ty Cerdd Evening Concert Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7.30pm, £10. Info 029 2063 6464. A concert championing the works of five female composers from Wales.

Heyrocco Undertone, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £5. Info 029 2022 8883. Alt-rock band presented by All My Friends. *Iceage + First Hate + Caramel Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 8pm, £12/£10 adv.

Info 029 2023 2199. Surly Danes make their first appearance in Cardiff for five years (almost to the day, I think) and debut as headliners. First Hate are also from Copenhagen, and synth-based.

Michael Ball St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £40.

Info 029 2087 8444.

Open Mic Market Street Club, Barry. 8pm. Info 01446 733863.

Open Mic Night NosDa, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info 029 2037 8866. Free drink for performers. Last Wednesday of every month.

Sarah Smith Gypsy Quartet Jazzland, Swansea. 8.30-11pm, £10/£7 members. Info 07802 912789.

Scream The Headlines + Elite Days The Lemon Factory, Swansea. 7pm, £2.

Info 07969 671379.

Thomas Nicholas Band + Fast Astronaut + Bandicoot The Scene Club, Swansea. 7pm, £5 adv. Info 07730 432166. The guy from American Pie and other things, with his band.

THURSDAY 30 Atlas + The Midweek Revival The Scene Club, Swansea. 7.30pm. Info 07730 432166.

Cara Dillon + Lowri Evans Theatr Mwldan, Cardigan. 7.30pm, £18.50/£17.50. Info 01239 621200. Irish singer-songwriter headlines.

Frigg Theatr Brychieniog, Brecon. 8pm, £18/£15. Info 01874 611622. Acclaimed combo of Nordic folk and American bluegrass. What?

Heavy Quartet Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £6/£5. Info 029 2038 7026.

Jimjam Open Mic Session The Claude Hotel, Albany Road, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 07557 505123.

This evening’s guest band is Stonehouse.

No Omega + Vices Fuel Bar, Cardiff. 7pm, £6 adv.

Info mail@givemefuel. co.uk. Metalcore kinda band from Sweden headline.

On-Par Productions 5th Birthday Party Gwdihw, Cardiff. 7pm, free (donations welcomed). Info 029 2039 7933. Fifth birthday bash for this company, BUZZ 73

stage featuring some of their favourite Welsh bands and DJs. Open Mic Night Lyceum Tavern, Newport. 8.30pm.

Info 01633 858636.

Rod Kelly Trio The Queens Head, Monmouth.

8.45pm, free. Info 01600 712767.

Rhydian Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 7.30pm, £13-£26.

Info 01970 623232.

Thee Manatees Porter’s, Cardiff. 8pm. Info info@ porterscardiff.com.

The Moon Birds + Jordan Mackampa 10 Feet Tall, Cardiff. 8pm, £6/£5. Info 029 2022 8883.

Wormhead The Moon Club, Cardiff. 7.30pm. Info info@thefullmooncardiff. com. Goth rock band from Cardiff.

stage WEDNESDAY 1 Albert Herring Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £15/£12. Info 029 2039 1391. Benjamin Britten’s opera, featuring the Royal Welsh College Soloists and Royal Welsh College Chamber Ensemble. On tomorrow also.

Animal Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 6.15pm, £8/£6. Info 029 2039 1391. A reworking of Euripides’ The Bacchae, written by Melissa Bubnic.

One of four plays premiering here at the start of April. (Until Fri 3) Boxy & Sticky Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 11am + 3pm, £7. Info 029 2030 4400. Kids’ show for 2-5-year-olds. On tomorrow also.

Carol Goode With Expressions School Of Dance Congress Theatre, Cwmbran. 7pm, £8.50/£7.50. Info 01633 868239. Dance school recital. (Until Fri 3) Growth Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 1.30 + 8.30pm, £8/£6. Info 029 2039 1391.

New play about “fear, hope, denial, love and loss”.

(Until Fri 3) How The Koala Learned To Hug Wyeside Arts Centre, Builth Wells.

2.30pm, £8.50/£7.50.

Info 01982 552555. Kids’ show. In Cardigan tomorrow; Blackwood on Tue 7; Newport on Wed 8; Abertillery on Thurs 9; Carmarthen on Fri 10; Milford Haven on Sat 11.

Interference Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 1pm, £5. Info 01656 815995.

Lunchtime theatre presented by Fluellen.

Jordan Brooks + Henry Widdecombe 10 Feet Tall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £5. Info 029 2022 8883. Edinburgh and Machynlleth preview shows from two local comeBUZZ 74

dians.

Justin & Friends: Mr Tumble’s Circus Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff.

1.30 + 4.45pm, £16.50£25.50. Info 029 2022 4488.

A Cbeebies live show. On tomorrow also.

Ring Ring Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 6.30pm, £8/£6. Info 029 2039 1391. A modern day version of La Ronde, written by Gary Owen.

(Until Fri 3) Saturday Night Fever New Theatre, Cardiff. 2.30 + 7.30pm, £10-£31. Info 029 2087 8889. Brand new production of this musical version of the movie.

Listings reckons you should watch the Village People film Can’t Stop The Music if you really want to know how it went down on the disco scene. (Until Sat 4) The Basil Brush Show Grand Theatre, Swansea. 11am + 2.30pm, £14.50/£12.50 kids. Info 01792 475715. In Brecon tomorrow.

The Dying Of Today The Other Room at Porter’s, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12/£10.

Info info@porterscardiff. com. The Other Room present Howard Barker’s unflinching play about “the worst news there has ever been”. (Until Sat 11) The Elvis Years Torch Theatre, Milford Haven.

7.30pm, £19.50. Info 01646 695267. Concert prouction of the musical Jailhouse Rock.

The Endless Ocean Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 1.15 + 8.15pm, £8/£6. Info 029 2039 1391. Brad Birch and National Theatre Wales’ play about a couple who abandon their eight-year-old daughter and disappear out of the country. (Until Fri 3) The Harri-Parris: The Big Day Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 8pm, £10-£14. Info 029 2030 4400. More Welsh than Wales itself, this farcical Pembrokeshire family’s latest adventure is presented

by Mai Oh Mai, The Torch, Chapter and Little Wander.

(Until Sat 4) The Scottish Falsetto Sock Puppet Theatre Maesteg Town Hall.

7.30pm, £7 adv. Info 01656 733700. April’s edition of the Clown’s Pocket comedy night; more acts TBC. Whatever The Weather Miners’ Institute, Blackwood. 1 + 3pm, £6/£5. Info 01495 227206.

Kids’ show set in an Alpine Weather House. In Newport tomorrow.

THURSDAY 2 Albert Herring Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £15/£12. Info 029 2039 1391.

Animal Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 1.15 + 8.15pm,

£8/£6. Info 029 2039 1391.

(Until Fri 3) Boxy & Sticky Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 11am + 3pm, £7. Info 029 2030 4400.

Carol Goode With Expressions School Of Dance Congress Theatre, Cwmbran. 7pm, £8.50/£7.50. Info 01633 868239. Dance school recital. (Until Fri 3) County Youth Dance Taliesin Arts Centre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £8.75/£6.75. Info 01792 602060.

Growth Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 6.30pm, £8/£6. Info 029 2039 1391. (Until Fri 3) How The Koala Learned To Hug Theatr Mwldan, Cardigan. 2.30pm, £8.50/£7.50. Info 01239 621200.

Ian Moore + Adam Bloom + Clint Edwards Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 7pm, £10/£5 NUS. Info 0871 4720400. Comedy Carousel night.

Justin & Friends: Mr Tumble’s Circus Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff.

11am + 2pm, £16.50£25.50. Info 029 2022 4488.

Le Pub Is For LOLs Le Pub, Newport. 8pm, free.

Info 01633 221477. Monthly standup night.

Noson O Ddawns Theatr Felinfach, Dyffryn Aeron.

7.30pm, £3-£5. Info 01570 470697. An evening of dance with the Theatre’s youth dance companies celebrating the work of T Llew Jones.

Red Riding Hood Beaufort Theatre, Ebbw Vale. 2pm, £8/£6. Info 01495 355800. Kids’ show presented by Magic Light.

Ring Ring Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 1.30 + 8.30pm, £8/£6. Info 029 2039 1391.

(Until Fri 3) Sarah Bridgeman Cafe Nisse, Swansea. 7.30pm, free. Info 01792 686914.

Comedy night hosted by Bridgeman and featuring other acts TBC, plus live music a bit later on Saturday Night Fever New Theatre, Cardiff.

7.30pm, £12-£31. Info 029 2087 8889. (Until Sat 4) Shaking The Blues Away Dolman Theatre, Newport.

7pm, £8. Info 01633 263670. Presented by the Kaleidoscope Dance School.

Also on Sat 4.

The Basil Brush Show Theatr Brychieniog, Brecon.

11am + 2.30pm, £14/£12 kids. Info 01874 611622.

The Dying Of Today The Other Room at Porter’s, Cardiff.. 7.30pm, £12/£10.

Info info@porterscardiff. com. (Until Sat 11) The Endless Ocean Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 6.15pm, £8/£6. Info 029 2039 1391.

(Until Fri 3) The Harri-Parris: The Big Day Chapter Arts

Centre, Cardiff. 8pm, £10£14. Info 029 2030 4400.

(Until Sat 4) The Sooty Show St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 11am + 2.30pm, £14/£12. Info 029 2087 8444.

Whatever The Weather The Riverfront, Newport.

1.30 + 3.30pm, £6.50. Info 01633 656757.

FRIDAY 3 Animal Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 6.15pm, £8/£6. Info 029 2039 1391. (Finishes today) Carol Goode With Expressions School Of Dance Congress Theatre, Cwmbran. 7pm, £8.50/£7.50. Info 01633 868239. Dance school recital. (Finishes today) Drones Comedy Club Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 8.30pm, £3.50. Info 029 2030 4400. Also on Fri 17.

Growth Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 1.30pm, £8/£6. Info 029 2039 1391. (Finishes today) Ian Moore + Adam Bloom + Suzi Ruffell + Gavin Webster Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 7.15pm, £15/£5 NUS. Info 0871 4720400.

On tomorrow also.

Nick Page + Penella Mellor + Stephen Porter Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 8pm, £12/£10 adv. Info 0845 2263510. Comedy Club night.

Out Of The Blue Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 12.30 + 2.30pm, £6/£5 kids. Info 029 2030 4400. Kids’ show

by Sarah Argent and Theatr Iolo. (Until Sun 5) Ring Ring Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 6.30pm, £8/£6. Info 029 2039 1391. (Finishes today) Saturday Night Fever New Theatre, Cardiff. 5 + 8.30pm, £10-£34.50.

Info 029 2087 8889. (Until Sat 4) The Dying Of Today The Other Room at Porter’s, Cardiff.. 7.30pm, £12/£10.

Info info@porterscardiff. com. (Until Sat 11) The Endless Ocean Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 1.15pm, £8/£6. Info 029 2039 1391.

(Finishes today) The Harri-Parris: The Big Day Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 8pm, £10£14. Info 029 2030 4400.

(Until Sat 4) SATURDAY 4 A Night Of Dirty Dancing Theatr Brychieniog, Brecon.

7.30pm, £21.50. Info 01874 611622.

Danny Deegan + Chris Washington + Andrew Bird + Tudur Owen Tiger Tiger, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12.50 adv. Info 029 2039 1944. A Manford’s Comedy Club night.

Dara Ó Briain Grand Theatre, Swansea. 8pm,

£23.50. Info 01792 475715.

Sold out, returns only. “Now all I need is for y’all to write my name properly / It’s Ó Briain, but some people use an apostrophe.”

Ian Moore + Adam Bloom + Suzi Ruffell + Gavin Webster Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 7.15pm, £17.50/£5 NUS. Info 0871 4720400.

Out Of The Blue Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff.

10.30am + 2.30pm, £6/£5 kids. Info 029 2030 4400.

(Until Sun 5) Red Riding Hood Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 2.30pm, £9/£7. Info 0845 2263510.

Presented by Magic Light Productions.

Saturday Night Fever New Theatre, Cardiff. 5 + 8.30pm, £12-£34.50. Info 029 2087 8889. (Finishes today) Shaking The Blues Away Dolman Theatre, Newport.

7pm, £8. Info 01633 263670.

The Dying Of Today The Other Room at Porter’s, Cardiff.. 7.30pm, £12/£10.

Info info@porterscardiff. com. (Until Sat 11) The Harri-Parris: The Big Day Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 8pm, £10£14. Info 029 2030 4400.

(Finishes today) Toby Hadoke + Paul James + Dana Alexander Jongleurs, Cardiff. 7pm, from £15. Info 08700 111960.

SUNDAY 5 Iain Stirling + Paul James + Leroy Brito + Tony Davidson + Robin Morgan Buffalo, Cardiff.

7pm, £6 adv early bird. Info 029 2031 0312. Presented

by Buffalo Comedy.

Live Cabaret Market Street Club, Barry. 8.30pm.

Info 01446 733863. Every Sunday.

Out Of The Blue Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 12.30 + 2.30pm, £6/£5 kids. Info 029 2030 4400. (Finishes today) MONDAY 6 How The Koala Learned To Hug The Welfare, Ystradgynlais. 2.30pm, £8/£6. Info 01639 843163.

Family theatre show.

The Dying Of Today The Other Room at Porter’s, Cardiff.. 7.30pm, £12/£10.

Info info@porterscardiff. com. (Until Sat 11) TUESDAY 7 Calamity Jane Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £18-£33. Info 01792 475715.

Wild West musical presented by Watermill Theatre.

(Until Sat 11) How The Koala Learnt To Hug Miners’ Institute, Blackwood. 2.30pm, £8.50/£7.50. Info 01495 227206.

Lord Of The Dance: Dangerous Games St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 8pm, £33. Info 029 2087 8444.

Michael Flatley directs 40 young performers in this new production, which is to say he won’t be onstage himself. Neither is Nadine from Girls Aloud, who is also something to do with it. Got a problem with that?

Move to London. (Until Sun 12) Pump Cynnig I Gymro Theatr Felinfach, Dyffryn Aeron. 7.30pm, £6-£8. Info 01570 470697. Welsh language drama presented by Theatr Bara Caws.

The Dying Of Today The Other Room at Porter’s, Cardiff.. 7.30pm, £12/£10.

Info info@porterscardiff. com. (Until Sat 11) WEDNESDAY 8 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom New Theatre, Cardiff. 10am, 1pm + 4pm, £8.50-£15.50. Info 029 2087 8889. New kids’ show from the makers of Peppa Pig. On tomorrow also.

Blavatsky’s Tower Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 8pm, £10/£8 adv.

Info 029 2030 4400. 3 Crate present a play about the effects of social isolation.

(Until Sat 11) Calamity Jane Grand Theatre, Swansea. 2.30 + 7.30pm, £18-£33. Info 01792 475715. (Until Sat 11) Cirkopolis Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7.30pm, £18-£25. Info 029 2063 6464. See Upfront.

(Until Sat 11) How The Koala Learned To Hug The Riverfront, Newport. 11.30am + 2.30pm, £6.50. Info 01633 656757.

Lord Of The Dance: Dangerous Games St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 8pm, £33-£40. Info 029 2087 8444. (Until Sun 12) The Dying Of Today The Other Room at Porter’s, Cardiff.. 7.30pm, £12/£10.

Info info@porterscardiff. com. (Until Sat 11) Where Caterpillars Go Torch Theatre, Milford Haven. 11am, 1pm + 3pm, £8/£6. Info 01646 695267.

Family-centred kids’ show.

Witches Abroad The Gate, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £8/£6 adv. Info 029 2048 3344.

The Monstrous Theatre Company follow up their production of Wyrd Sisters with another adaption of a Terry Pratchett novel.

(Until Sat 11) THURSDAY 9 Alice & The White Rabbit Maesteg Town Hall.

2.30pm, £6 adv. Info 01656 733700. Kids’ theatre presented by Indigo Moon.

Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom New Theatre, Cardiff. 10am, 1pm + 4pm, £8.50-£15.50. Info 029 2087 8889.

Blavatsky’s Tower Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 8pm, £10/£8 adv.

Info 029 2030 4400. (Until Sat 11) Calamity Jane Grand

stage Theatre, Swansea. 2.30 + 7.30pm, £18-£33. Info 01792 475715. (Until Sat 11) Cirkopolis Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7.30pm, £18-£25. Info 029 2063 6464. (Until Sat 11) Duncan Oakley + Kate Smurthwaite + Caimh McDonnell Queens Hall, Narberth. 7.15pm, £8-£12.

Info 01834 869323. Comedy Club night. If there are any topical feminist rappers reading, Smurthwaite / birth weight could be a ‘dope multi’.

Hitch Torch Theatre, Milford Haven. 7.30pm, £7-£12. Info 01646 695267.

Hitchcock-themed theatre, presented by the Mary Bijou Cabaret And Social Club. In Llanelli tomorrow; Newport on Thurs 16 How The Koala Learnt To Hug The Met, Abertillery. 2.30pm, £5. Info 01495 355800.

Lord Of The Dance: Dangerous Games St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 8pm, £33-£40. Info 029 2087 8444. (Until Sun 12) Max Boyce Borough Theatre, Abergavenny.

7.30pm, £22. Info 01873 850805. Sold out. On tomorrow also. That’s sold out too. There just aren’t enough days in the month for Max to entertain everyone who wants to be entertained by him.

Merlin Theatr Brychieniog, Brecon. 2.30pm, £8. Info 01874 611622. Presented by Image Musical Theatre.

Mitch Benn Theatr Mwldan, Cardigan. 8pm, £14/£12. Info 01239 621200.

Standup show about debunking myths.

Stephen Grant + Dan Nightingale + Clint Edwards Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 7pm, £10/£5 NUS. Info 0871 4720400.

Comedy Carousel night.

The Archaeologist’s Wife Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff.

7pm, free. Info 029 2039 1391. Watch a new opera about Tessa Wheeler and her 1926 excavation of the Roman amphitheatre at Caerleon – for nowt! On tomorrow also.

The Dying Of Today The Other Room at Porter’s, Cardiff.. 7.30pm, £12/£10.

Info info@porterscardiff. com. (Until Sat 11) The Picture Of Dorian Gray Theatr Hafren, Newtown. 7.45pm, £10/£8.

Info 01686 614555. Drama presented by the European Arts Company.

The Wedding Singer Beaufort Theatre, Ebbw Vale. 7pm, £7 adv. Info 01495 355800. Presented

by Merthyr Amateur Dramatics. (Until Sat 11) Witches Abroad The Gate, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £8/£6 adv.

Info 029 2048 3344. (Until Sat 11)

FRIDAY 10 Blavatsky’s Tower Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 8pm, £10/£8 adv.

Info 029 2030 4400. (Until Sat 11) Calamity Jane Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £18-£33. Info 01792 475715.

(Until Sat 11) Cirkopolis Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7.30pm, £18-£25. Info 029 2063 6464. (Until Sat 11) Hitch Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli.

7.30pm, £14/£12. Info 0845 2263510.

How The Koala Learnt To Hug Lyric Theatre, Carmarthen. 2.30pm, £10/£8. Info 0845 2263510.

Kaleidoscope Congress Theatre, Cwmbran. 7pm, £8/£6. Info 01633 868239.

Dance show. All proceeds from this evening go to St David’s Hospice Care.

(Until Sun 12) Lord Of The Dance: Dangerous Games St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 8pm, £33-£40. Info 029 2087 8444. No show tomorrow.

(Until Sun 12) Max Boyce Borough Theatre, Abergavenny.

7.30pm, £22. Info 01873 850805.

Mike Doyle Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 7.30pm, £14-£17. Info 01656 815995.

My People Taliesin Arts Centre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £12/£10. Info 01792 602060.

Dance production inspired by author Caradoc Evans’ controversial collection of short-stories of the same name. In Abergavenny on Wed 29.

Stephen Grant + Dan Nightingale + Alistair Barrie + Tommy Rowson Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 7.15pm, £15/£5 NUS. Info 0871 4720400. On tomorrow also.

Stewart Francis The Duke, Neath. 8pm, £14. Info 01639 643892. Besuited standup comedian plays two gigs (on tomrorow also) for promoters The Clown’s Pocket.

‘Stute Comedy Nights Miners’ Institute, Blackwood. 7.30pm, £12/£11 adv. Info 01495 227206.

The Archaeologist’s Wife Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff.

7pm, free. Info 029 2039 1391.

The Dying Of Today The Other Room at Porter’s, Cardiff.. 7.30pm, £12/£10.

Info info@porterscardiff. com. (Until Sat 11) The Wedding Singer Beaufort Theatre, Ebbw Vale. 7pm, £7 adv. Info 01495 355800. (Until Sat 11) Transition Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 3 + 7.30pm, £7. Info 029 2030 4400. National Theatre Wales’ award-winning dance production.

Witches Abroad The Gate, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £8/£6 adv.

Info 029 2048 3344. (Until Sat 11) Y Tri Dyn Doeth + Y Neuadd Newydd Theatr Mwldan, Cardigan. 7.30pm, £8/£6. Info 01239 621200.

Two short Welsh language comedies presented by Cwmni Drama Llandudoch.

SATURDAY 11 Blavatsky’s Tower Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 8pm, £10/£8 adv. Info 029 2030 4400.

(Finishes today) Calamity Jane Grand Theatre, Swansea. 2.30 + 7.30pm, £18-£33. Info 01792 475715. (Finishes today) Cirkopolis Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 1 + 7.30pm, £18£25. Info 029 2063 6464.

(Finishes today) Dave Twentyman + Kai Humphries + Adam Staunton + Richard Morton Tiger Tiger, Cardiff.

7.30pm, £12.50 adv. Info 029 2039 1944.

Ffin Dance Easter Dance Faktry The Met, Abertillery. 7.30pm, £8/£6.

Info 01495 355800.

How The Koala Learnt To Hug Torch Theatre, Milford Haven. 2.30pm, £8.50/£7.50. Info 01646 695267.

Jeff Leach + Luke Benson Jongleurs, Cardiff.

7pm, from £15. Info 08700 111960.

Kaleidoscope Congress Theatre, Cwmbran. 7pm, £8/£6. Info 01633 868239.

(Until Sun 12) Kevin Bridges Savoy Theatre, Monmouth. 8pm.

Info 01600 772467. Sold-out gig featuring Bridges doing work in progress stuff. As I’ve never knowingly heard any of his comedy, it would all be new to me.

Lord Of The Dance: Dangerous Games St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 8pm, £43.50/£40. Info 029 2087 8444. (Finishes today) Mike Doyle Pontardawe Arts Centre. 7.30pm, £16/£14. Info 01792 863722.

NT Connections 2015 Sherman Cymru, Cardiff.

10.30am-8pm, £15 per day/£5 per performance.

Info 029 2064 6900.

Celebration of new stage writers, over two days.

Performing today: Hood by Katherine Chandler, The Edelweiss Pirates by Ayub Khan Din and Remote by Stef Smith. On tomorrow also.

Pum Cymmig I Gymro Aberystwyth Arts Centre.

7.30pm, £7-£14. Info 01970 623232. Welsh language play, presented by Theatr Bara Caws and about the life of John Elwyn Jones.

Rod Stevens Redhouse, Merthyr Tydfil. 7.30pm, £8 adv. Info 01685 384111.

Comedy hypnotist.

Shows & Soundtracks Miners’ Institute, Blackwood. 7.30pm, £15.50/£14.50. Info 01495 227206. Songs from films

and musicals alike.

Stephen Grant + Dan Nightingale + Alistair Barrie + Tommy Rowson Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 7.15pm, £17.50/£5 NUS. Info 0871 4720400.

Stewart Francis The Duke, Neath. 8pm, £14. Info 01639 643892.

The Dying Of Today The Other Room at Porter’s, Cardiff.. 7.30pm, £12/£10.

Info info@porterscardiff. com. (Finishes today) The Jungle Book Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 11am + 2pm, £7. Info 01656 815995. Presented by Indigo Moon Theatre.

The Little Mermaid Miners Theatre, Ammanford. 1 + 3.30pm.

Info 0845 2263510.

Presented by The Panto Company. Appears to be sold out though.

The Wedding Singer Beaufort Theatre, Ebbw Vale. 2pm, £7 adv. Info 01495 355800. (Finishes today) Witches Abroad The Gate, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £8/£6 adv. Info 029 2048 3344.

(Finishes today) SUNDAY 12 Kaleidoscope Congress Theatre, Cwmbran. 3pm, £8/£6. Info 01633 868239.

(Finishes today) Live Cabaret Market Street Club, Barry. 8.30pm.

Info 01446 733863.

NT Connections 2015 Sherman Cymru, Cardiff.

10.30am-8pm, £15 per day/£5 per performance.

Info 029 2064 6900.

Performing today: The Accordion Shop by Cush Jumbo, The Boy Preference

by Elinor Cook, Hacktivists

by Ben Ockrent and Hood

by Katherine Chandler.

MONDAY 13 Caterpillar Comedy Gwdihw, Cardiff. 8pm, free.

Info 029 2039 7933. Open mic standup night hosted

by James Dunn (taking over from Jordan Brookes).

Welsh Unsigned Standup Award: Heat 1 The Other Room at Porter’s, Cardiff.

8pm, £5. Info info@porterscardiff.com. Featuring Jude Meyer, Jethro Bradley, Russ Creemer, Paul Scoble, Jenny Collier, Alex Wilson, Nick Hiscott and Michael Bowers. Also on Mon 20 this month; there are six heats in total and the final is on Thurs 23 July at the Glee Club.

TUESDAY 14 Stick Man Sherman Cymru, Cardiff. 4.30pm, £8. Info 029 2064 6900.

Scamp Theatre’s adaption of popular kids’ book. On tomorrow also.

The Curious Incident Of The Dog In The NightTime Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7.30pm, £18-£34. Info 029 2063 6464. Olivier Award-winning

National Theatre production. (Until Sat 18) The Ghost Train Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £11.50-£16. Info 01792 475715. Classic comedy thriller presented here by Talking Scarlet. (Until Thurs 16) The Two Gentlemen Of Verona Grand Theatre Arts Wing, Swansea. 7.15pm, £10/£8. Info 01792 475715.

Presented by Fluellen.

(Until Thurs 16)

Newtown Musical Theatre Company. (Until Sat 18) Aladdin Theatr Mwldan, Cardigan. 7.30pm, £15/£14.

Info 01239 621200.

Presented by Ballet Theatre UK. In Brecon on Wed 29.

Brief Encounter Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 7.30pm, £10. Info 0845 2263510.

(Until Sat 18) Comedy Sheep Dempseys, Cardiff. 7.30pm. Info 029 2023 9253. Standup night with acts TBC. Hitch The Riverfront,

From Wed 8-Sat 11 Apr at The Gate Arts Centre in Cardiff, The Monstrous Theatre Company follow up their production of Wyrd Sisters with another theatrical adaption of a Terry Pratchett novel, Witches Abroad. That this one shall be ‘in memoriam’ may prove beneficial to Alzheimer’s Research, the charity to whom all the profits are going.

WEDNESDAY 15 Aladdin Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 7.30pm, £16.50/£15.50. Info 01656 815995. Presented by Ballet Theatre UK. Benefit Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 7.30pm, £5-£10.

Info 01970 623232.

Cardboard Citizens present a play about three separate, but interwoven, stories.

Brief Encounter Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 7.30pm, £10. Info 0845 2263510.

Noel Coward’s 1945 screenplay, presented by LLanelli Little Theatre. (Until Sat 18) Stick Man Sherman Cymru, Cardiff. 10.30am + 1pm, £8. Info 029 2064 6900.

The Curious Incident Of The Dog In The NightTime Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 1.30 + 7.30pm, £18-£34. Info 029 2063 6464. (Until Sat 18) The Ghost Train Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £11.50-£16. Info 01792 475715. (Until Thurs 16) The Two Gentlemen Of Verona Grand Theatre Arts Wing, Swansea. 1 + 7.15pm, £6-£10. Info 01792 475715. (Until Thurs 16) Waiting In The Wings Dolman Theatre, Newport.

7.15pm, £8.50-£12.50.

Info 01633 263670. Noel Coward’s play, set in a charitable retirement home for actresses. (Until Sat 18) THURSDAY 16 42nd Street Theatr Hafren, Newtown. 7.30pm, £12. Info 01686 614555.

Musical presented by

Newport. 7.45pm, £10/£8.50. Info 01633 656757.

John Fothergill + The Noise Next Door + Clint Edwards Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 7pm, £10/£5 NUS. Info 0871 4720400.

Comedy Carousel night.

Roy Chubby Brown Congress Theatre, Cwmbran. 7.30pm, £20. Info 01633 868239. “Roy Chubby Brown is one of Belfield’s favourite people! Aside from Roy’s act, he’s an incredible musician, hugely impressive wordsmith and remarkable stand-up comedian” – Alex Belfield, owner of a YouTube channel. On tomorrow also.

Someone Who’ll Watch Over Me St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 8pm, £10. Info 029 2087 8444. Play by Frank McGuinness, on level 1.

(Until Sat 18) The Curious Incident Of The Dog In The NightTime Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 2.30 + 7.30pm, £18-£34. Info 029 2063 6464. (Until Sat 18) The Death Hilarious + Paul Scobie + Lloyd Tasker Poland + Lewis Bowman + Nick Hiscott Hobo’s, Bridgend. 7.30pm, £4/£3 adv. Info www.hobosmusicvenue.com. Monthly comedy night presented

by Heck Yes. The Death Hilarious describe themselves as a “white, working class, Welsh sketch duo.”

Intersectionality right here folks.

The Ghost Train Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £11.50-£16. Info 01792 BUZZ 75

stage 475715. (Until Thurs 16) The Two Gentlemen Of Verona Grand Theatre Arts Wing, Swansea. 7.15pm, £10/£8. Info 01792 475715.

(Finishes today) Waiting In The Wings Dolman Theatre, Newport.

7.15pm, £8.50-£12.50.

Info 01633 263670. (Until Sat 18) FRIDAY 17 42nd Street Theatr Hafren, Newtown. 7.30pm, £12. Info 01686 614555.

(Until Sat 18) Aladdin Wyeside Arts Centre, Builth Wells.

7.30pm, £15/£14. Info 01982 552555. Presented by Ballet Theatre UK. An Inspector Calls The Riverfront, Newport. 1 + 7.45pm, £6-£12.50. Info 01633 656757. Presented

by Tin Shed Theatre. On tomorrow also.

Back To Braodway Savoy Theatre, Monmouth.

7.30pm, £15. Info 01600 772467.

Brief Encounter Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 7.30pm, £10. Info 0845 2263510.

(Until Sat 18) Drones Comedy Club Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 8.30pm, £3.50. Info 029 2030 4400.

Godspell New Theatre, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £13.50-£32.

Info 029 2087 8889. Famous rock musical. On tomorrow also.

Henry V Redhouse, Merthyr Tydfil. 7.30pm, £10/£8 adv. Info 01685 384111. On tomorrow also.

I Think Not Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £9/£7. Info 029 2030 4400.

Dance double bill by Anushiye Yarnell and Riika Theresa Innanen.

John Fothergill + The Noise Next Door + Jonny Pelham + Peter White Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 7.15pm, £15/£5 NUS. Info 0871 4720400. On tomorrow also.

Karen Sherrard + Bec Hill Carnegie House, Bridgend. 7.30pm. Info 01656 815757. Standup comedy, Sherrard’s set being a work in progress.

Last Of The Red Hot Lovers Sherman Cymru, Cardiff. 7.45pm, £15/£10.

Info 029 2064 6900. See Stage. On tomorrow also.

Roy Chubby Brown Congress Theatre, Cwmbran. 7.30pm, £20. Info 01633 868239.

Someone Who’ll Watch Over Me St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 8pm, £10. Info 029 2087 8444. (Until Sat 18) The Curious Incident Of The Dog In The NightTime Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7.30pm, £20-£47. Info 029 2063 6464. (Until Sat 18) The Ghost Train Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £11.50-£16. Info 01792 475715. (Until Thurs 16) The Winter Gift Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 8pm, BUZZ 76

£11/£9. Info 029 2030 4400.

Written by TJ Davies, this tells the story of Pandora’s Box, the men and women who made it, and what happened afterwards. Contains the proverbial ‘adult material’. (Until Sun 19) Waiting In The Wings Dolman Theatre, Newport.

7.15pm, £8.50-£12.50.

Info 01633 263670. (Until Sat 18) SATURDAY 18 42nd Street Theatr Hafren, Newtown. 2.30 + 7.30pm, £12. Info 01686 614555. (Finishes today) An Inspector Calls The Riverfront, Newport. 1 + 7.45pm, £6-£12.50. Info 01633 656757.

Bluestocking Lounge Grand Theatre, Swansea.

8pm, £12.50. Info 01792 475715. Featuring Raven Noir and Lou Safire among other performers.

Brief Encounter Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 7.30pm, £10. Info 0845 2263510.

(Finishes today) Colin Manford + Lost Voice Guy + Tommy Rowson + Nick Doody Tiger Tiger, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12.50 adv. Info 029 2039 1944.

David Ward + Matt Rees + John Scott Jongleurs, Cardiff. 7pm, from £15. Info 08700 111960.

Faust Theatr Brychieniog, Brecon. 7.30pm, £19.50/£17.50. Info 01874 611622. Presented by Swnsea City Opera.

Gair Ar Gnawd Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 7pm, £12. Info 0845 2263510. Welah language opera, presented by Welsh National Opera.

Godspell New Theatre, Cardiff. 2.30 + 7.30pm, £13.50-£32. Info 029 2087 8889.

Henry V Redhouse, Merthyr Tydfil. 7.30pm, £10/£8 adv. Info 01685 384111.

Jeremy Hardy Savoy Theatre, Monmouth.

7.30pm, £14/£5 unwaged.

Info 01600 772467.

Discounts for the unwaged huh? Seems to me there won’t be many takers among Jeremy’s very middle class fanbase! “Actually, many middle class people have lost their jobs during this age of austerity,” you tell me as my face turns purple due to the inability to process this information.

John Fothergill + The Noise Next Door + Jonny Pelham + Peter White Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 7.15pm, £17.50/£5 NUS. Info 0871 4720400.

Last Of The Red Hot Lovers Sherman Cymru, Cardiff. 7.45pm, £18/£10.

Info 029 2064 6900.

Someone Who’ll Watch Over Me St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 8pm, £10. Info 029 2087 8444. (Finishes today) Steps, Notes & Scripts Congress Theatre, Cwmbran. 7pm,

£8.50/£6.50. Info 01633 868239. Singing, dancing and drama from various kids’ groups. On tomorrow also.

The Curious Incident Of The Dog In The NightTime Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 2.30 + 7.30pm, £20-£47. Info 029 2063 6464. (Finishes today) The Ghost Train Grand Theatre, Swansea. 2.30 + 7.30pm, £11.50-£16. Info 01792 475715. (Finishes today) The Winter Gift Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 3 + 8pm, £11/£9. Info 029 2030 4400. (Until Sun 19) Waiting In The Wings Dolman Theatre, Newport.

2.30 + 7.15pm, £8.50£12.50. Info 01633 263670.

(Finishes today) SUNDAY 19 Live Cabaret Market Street Club, Barry. 8.30pm.

Info 01446 733863.

Steps, Notes & Scripts Congress Theatre, Cwmbran. 3pm, £8.50/£6.50. Info 01633 868239.

The Winter Gift Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 8pm, £11/£9. Info 029 2030 4400.

(Finishes today) Young Professionals Actors Showcase Dempseys, Cardiff. 6pm, £4.

Info 029 2023 9253. Hosted

by Big Talent.

MONDAY 20 Anything Goes Torch Theatre, Milford Haven.

7pm, £8. Info 01646 695267.

Variety show presented by the Pembrokeshire WI. Essence Of Ireland Grand Theatre, Swansea.

7.30pm, £22. Info 01792 475715. “Experience the heart, soul and spirit of the Emerald Isle! ‘Every day is St Patrick’s Day when these guys are in town’ – BBC.” Estimate the percentage of the audience who would kick off about an equivalent Wales-themed show playing in Ireland.

Return To The Forbidden Planet New Theatre, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12-£22.

Info 029 2087 8889. Famous musical embarks on 25th anniversary tour. (Until Sat 25) Welsh Unsigned Standup Award: Heat 2 The Other Room at Porter’s, Cardiff.

8pm, £5. Info info@ porterscardiff.com.

Featuring Anita Shaw, Jack Evans, Liam Schewitz, Philip Cooper, Sam Lloyd, Jeff Japers, Dai Davies and one more TBC. TUESDAY 21 An Inspector Calls Aberystwyth Arts Centre.

7.30pm, £5-£10. Info 01970 623232. JB Priestly’s play, presented by the Tin Shed Theatre Company..

Encore Dance Theatr Mwldan, Cardigan. 7.30pm, £15/£14. Info 01239 621200.

Mixed programme of cho-

reography showcasing the Encore Dance Eompany’s work.

Godspell Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £23.50£27.50. Info 01792 475715.

Little Sure Shot Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 6.30pm, £10. Info 029 2039 1391.

West Yorkshire Playhouse The Egg, Theatr Iolo and the Mac in Belfast present the Wild West story of Annie Oakley. Also on Wed 22 and Thurs 23.

Me And My Girl Miners’ Institute, Blackwood.

7.15pm, £8. Info 01495 227206. Musical, presented

by Blackwood Musical Theatre Society. (Until Fri 24) Mermaid Sherman Cymru, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £15-£25.

Info 029 2064 6900. Hans Christian Andersen’s timeless (in the sense that mermaids are as real now as then) tale is given a radical makeover. (Until Sat 25) Piste Off Comedy Club Face 11, Cathays, Cardiff.

8pm, free. Info 029 2022 8221. Here on the third

Tuesday of every month.

Return To The Forbidden Planet New Theatre, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12-£28.

Info 029 2087 8889. (Until Sat 25) Singin’ In The Rain Borough Theatre, Abergavenny. 7pm, £12/£11.

Info 01873 850805. Musical presented by AADOS. (Until Sat 25) Sister Act Parc & Dare, Treorchy. 7.15pm, £10. Info 0800 0147111. Musical, presented by Selsig Amateur Operatic Society. (Until Fri 24) WEDNESDAY 22 A Night Of Dirty Dancing Congress Theatre, Cwmbran. 7.30pm, £18.50.

Info 01633 868239.

Call Mr Robeson Aberystwyth Arts Centre.

7.30pm, £5-£10. Info 01970 623232. Presented

by Taya Aluko & Friends.

In Abertillery tomorrow; Newport on Fri 24.

Comedy Den Porters, Cardiff. 8pm. Info info@ porterscardiff.com. Hosted

by Charlie Smith; with

standups TBC. Footloose Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 7.30pm, £12. Info 0845 2263510. Presented by the SA15 Stage School.

(Until Sat 25) In The Red (We’ll Always Be Blue) The Gate, Cardiff. 6.45pm, £12 adv. Info 029 2048 3344.

Play centred round three Cardiff City fans, waiting to attend a game which could see the team promoted to the Premier League, and the disturbing scenario which unfolds.

Little Sure Shot Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 6.30pm, £10. Info 029 2039 1391.

Me And My Girl Miners’ Institute, Blackwood.

7.15pm, £10/£9. Info 01495 227206. (Until Fri 24) Mermaid Sherman Cymru, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £15-£25.

Info 029 2064 6900. (Until Sat 25) Oliver Dolman Theatre, Newport. 7.15pm, £11. Info 01633 263670. Musical.

(Until Sat 25) Return To The Forbidden Planet New Theatre,

MY PEOPLE Taliesin Arts Centre, Swansea, Fri 10 Apr; Borough Theatre, Abergavenny, Wed 29 Apr; The Riverfront, Newport, Thurs 30 Apr Tickets: £12/£10 (Abergavenny). Info: 01792 602060 / www.taliesinartscentre.co.uk (Swansea); 01873 850505 / www.boroughtheatreabergavenny.co.uk (Abergavenny); 01633 656757 / www.newport.gov.uk/theriverfront (Newport) With the radioactive dust still in our hair from 12 months of Dylan Thomas centenary-related events, for 2015 let’s toast a similar milestone of one of his formative inspirations. Published in 1915, My People was the debut collection of short stories by Caradoc Evans, a Welsh writer whose work aimed to deliver broadsides to a nation which used its Christianity as a crutch while beset by widespread poverty. It proved deeply controversial in Wales, but kickstarted Evans’ literary career. This month, it’s taking to the stage in the form of a dance production, devised by Gwyn Emberton and the international dancers under his wing. Focusing on individual characters from the book, the dancers nevertheless work together with some thrilling choreographic displays. There’ll be three chances to witness it in south Wales this month.

stage Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12-£28.

Info 029 2087 8889. (Until Sat 25) Singin’ In The Rain Borough Theatre, Abergavenny. 7pm, £12.

Info 01873 850805. (Until Sat 25) Sister Act Parc & Dare, Treorchy. 7.15pm, £10.

Info 0800 0147111. (Until Fri 24) The Road To Twickers Lyric Theatre, Carmarthen.

7.30pm, £14/£12. Info 0845 2263510. Frapestus Productions’ new comedy based on the Rugby World Cup. In Cardigan tomorrow; Cwmbran on Fri 24 and Sat 25; Newtown on Thurs 23.

When You’re Smiling Princess Royal Theatre, Port Talbot. 2pm, £8. Info 01639 763214.

Wuthering Heights Workmen’s Hall, Caerphilly.

7pm. Info 07512 237983.

Presented by Caerphilly Players. (Until Fri 24) THURSDAY 23 Aladdin Lyric Theatre, Carmarthen. 7.30pm, £15/£12. Info 0845 2263510.

Call Mr Robeson The Met, Abertillery. 7.30pm, £10/£8. Info 01495 355800.

Dirty Dusting Theatr Brychieniog, Brecon.

7.30pm, £20. Info 01874 611622. Comedy about three cleaning ladies who decide to run a sex chat line.

Footloose Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 7.30pm, £12.

Info 0845 2263510. (Until Sat 25) Gladiator Coliseum Theatre, Aberdare. 7.30pm, £10/£8. Info 0800 0147111.

See Stage for more on this story of the first racing bike. Presented by Chainworks; on tomorrow also and subsequently touring to Ytradgynlais (Sat 25), Cardiff (Wed 29 and Thurs 30) plus several venues in May. Hiraeth Miners Theatre, Ammanford. 7.30pm, free. Info 0845 2263510.

Exploring the decline of Welsh tradition and identity through one woman’s struggle to escape and let go. In Llanelli tomorrow.

Hugless Douglas Congress Theatre, Cwmbran. 2pm, £8/£6.

Info 01633 868239. In Monmoouth on Sat 25.

Little Sure Shot Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 6.30pm, £10. Info 029 2039 1391.

Me And My Girl Miners’ Institute, Blackwood.

7.15pm, £10/£9. Info 01495 227206. (Until Fri 24) Mermaid Sherman Cymru, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £15-£25. Info 029 2064 6900. (Until Sat 25) Oliver Dolman Theatre, Newport. 7.15pm, £11.

Info 01633 263670. (Until Sat 25) Return To The Forbidden Planet New

Theatre, Cardiff. 2.30 + 7.30pm, £12-£28. Info 029 2087 8889. (Until Sat 25) Rigoletto Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £15-£33.

Info 01792 475715. Verdi’s opera, presented by Ballet International.

Singin’ In The Rain Borough Theatre, Abergavenny. 7pm, £12.

Info 01873 850805. (Until Sat 25) Sister Act Parc & Dare, Treorchy. 7.15pm, £10.

Info 0800 0147111. (Until Fri 24) Steve Gribbin + Geoff Norcott + Clint Edwards Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 7pm, £10/£5 NUS. Info 0871 4720400.

Comedy Carousel night.

The Road To Twickers Theatr Mwldan, Cardigan.

7.30pm, £13/£12. Info 01239 621200.

The Wizard Of Oz Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl.

7.30pm, £10-£14. Info 01656 815995. Musical presented by PAODS. (Until Sat 25) Wuthering Heights Workmen’s Hall, Caerphilly.

7pm. Info 07512 237983.

(Until Fri 24) FRIDAY 24 Andy Parsons Theatr Hafren, Newtown. 8pm, £15. Info 01686 614555.

A Night Of Dirty Dancing: The Ultimate Tribute Show Princess Royal Theatre, Port Talbot.

7.30pm, £18/£16. Info 01639 763214.

Call Mr Robeson The Riverfront, Newport.

7.45pm, £12.50/£10. Info 01633 656757.

Comedy Shed The Riverfront, Newport.

7.45pm, £12.50. Info 01633 656757. With standups TBC. Finding Home Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 7pm, £8-£12. Info 029 2030 4400.

Denni Dennis performs a solo clown show. On tomorrow also.

Footloose Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 7.30pm, £12.

Info 0845 2263510. (Until Sat 25) Gladiator Coliseum Theatre, Aberdare. 1 + 7.30pm, £10/£8. Info 0800 0147111.

Henning Wehn Pontardawe Arts Centre.

8pm, £16/£14. Info 01792 863722. Teutonic-themed comedian.

Hiraeth Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 7.30pm, £10. Info 0845 2263510.

La Traviata Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £15-£33. Info 01792 475715. More Verdi opera action.

Mark Olver Wyeside Arts Centre, Builth Wells. 8pm, £11/£9 adv. Info 01982 552555. Headlining the Wyeside Comedy Club night.

Me And My Girl Miners’ Institute, Blackwood.

7.15pm, £10/£9. Info 01495

227206. (Finishes today) Mermaid Sherman Cymru, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £15-£25. Info 029 2064 6900. (Until Sat 25) National Dance Company Wales Aberystwyth Arts Centre.

7.30pm. Info 01970 623232.

New programme of inspirational international choreography.

Oliver Dolman Theatre, Newport. 7.15pm, £11.

Info 01633 263670. (Until Sat 25) Return To The Forbidden Planet New Theatre, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £13-£30. Info 029 2087 8889. (Until Sat 25) Singin’ In The Rain Borough Theatre, Abergavenny. 7pm, £12.

Info 01873 850805. (Until Sat 25) Sister Act Parc & Dare, Treorchy. 7.15pm, £10. Info 0800 0147111. (Finishes today) Steve Gribbin + Geoff Norcott + Robin Morgan + Dan Thomas Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 7.15pm, £15/£5 NUS. Info 0871 4720400. On tomorrow also.

The Road To Twickers Congress Theatre, Cwmbran. 7.30pm, £13/£12. Info 01633 868239. On tomorrow also.

The Wizard Of Oz Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl.

7.30pm, £10-£14. Info 01656 815995. (Until Sat 25) Wuthering Heights Workmen’s Hall, Caerphilly.

7pm. Info 07512 237983.

(Finishes today) SATURDAY 25 Barry Dodds + Chris Turner + Brennan Reece + Mile McCabe Tiger Tiger, Cardiff.

7.30pm, £12.50 adv. Info 029 2039 1944.

David Morgan + Micky P Kerr + Raymond Mearns Jongleurs, Cardiff.

7pm, from £15. Info 08700 111960.

Finding Home Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 7pm, £8-£12. Info 029 2030 4400.

Footloose Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 2.30 + 7.30pm, £12. Info 0845 2263510.

(Finishes today) Gladiator The Welfare, Ystradgynlais. 7.30pm, £10/£8. Info 01639 843163.

Henning Wehn Theatr Brychieniog, Brecon.

7.30pm, £15. Info 01874 611622.

Hugless Douglas Savoy Theatre, Monmouth. 12pm, £9/£7 under-16s. Info 01600 772467.

Madama Butterfly Grand Theatre, Swansea.

7.30pm, £15-£33. Info 01792 475715. Puccini’s opera, presented by Ballet International.

Max Boyce Lyric Theatre, Carmarthen. 7.30pm. Info 0845 2263510. Sold out.

Mermaid Sherman Cymru, Cardiff. 2 +

7.30pm, £12-£25. Info 029 2064 6900. (Finishes today) Oliver Dolman Theatre, Newport. 7.15pm, £11. Info 01633 263670. (Finishes today) Return To The Forbidden Planet New Theatre, Cardiff. 4 + 8pm, £12-£30. Info 029 2087 8889. (Finishes today) Richard Herring Savoy Theatre, Monmouth. 8pm, £15. Info 01600 772467.

Performing his Lord Of The Dance Settee set.

Singin’ In The Rain Borough Theatre, Abergavenny. 6pm, £12.

Info 01873 850805.

(Finishes today) Steve Gribbin + Geoff Norcott + Robin Morgan + Dan Thomas Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 7.15pm, £17.50/£5 NUS. Info 0871 4720400.

Wizard Of Oz Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 2.30 + 7.30pm, £10-£14. Info 01656 815995. (Finishes today) Tudur Owen Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama, Cardiff. 8pm, £10. Info 029 2039 1391. Welsh language standup.

What Shall We Do With The German Sailor?

Grand Theatre, Swansea.

12.30pm, £6/£4.50. Info 01792 475715. Lunchtime theatre presented by Fluellen.

SUNDAY 26 Die Walküre (Act III) Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7.30pm, £14.50-£53.50. Info 029 2063 6464. Welsh National Opera take on an act from Wagner’s Ring Cycle, with Bryn Terfel in the lead role.

Johnny & The Baptists Rock The Vote Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.3010.30pm, £10/£5. Info 029 2023 2199. Musical comedy act.

Live Cabaret Market Street Club, Barry. 8.30pm.

Info 01446 733863.

MONDAY 27 Bruce Forsyth Entertains! New Theatre, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £24£40. Info 029 2087 8889.

Comedy, piano, dance and song offered from British ‘national treasure’ and pointing enthusiast.

Lee Nelson Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £20.50. Info 01792 475715.

“You may have caught Lee trying to join the England Squad as Premier League footballer Jason Bent.”

Hmm, don’t believe I did, although I did see Simon Brodkin, who plays both characters, trying to do that. Maybe that’s what you meant, copywriter who probably has a slightly better paying job than me when you adjust for cost of living in London.

TUESDAY 28 A Good Clean Heart The Other Room at Porter’s, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12/£10.

Info info@porterscardiff. com. Brand new bilingual play by Alun Saunders, a coming of age story about two brothers raised apart.

(Until Sat 16 May) Peter Pan Goes Wrong New Theatre, Cardiff.

7.30pm, £10-£21. Info 029 2087 8889. Followup to The Play That Goes Wrong, another meta ‘production about a production’ type thing. (Until Sat 2 May) Rich Hall Princess Royal Theatre, Port Talbot. 8pm, £16. Info 01639 763214.

Vienna Festival Ballet 35th Anniversary Gala Congress Theatre, Cwmbran. 7.30pm, £17.50/£16.50. Info 01633 868239.

WEDNESDAY 29 A Good Clean Heart The Other Room at Porter’s, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12/£10.

Info info@porterscardiff. com. (Until Sat 16 May) Aladdin Theatr Brychieniog, Brecon.

7.30pm, £16/£15. Info 01874 611622.

Comedy Club Grand Theatre Arts Wing, Swansea. 8pm, £11. Info 01792 475715.

Disney On Ice: Magical Ice Festival Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff. 6pm, £15.50-£40. Info 029 2022 4488. Everything is better on ice. (Until Sun 3 May) Gladiator Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 8pm, £12/£8. Info 029 2030 4400.

On tomorrow also.

Les Miserables Beaufort Theatre, Ebbw Vale. 6pm, £6 adv. Info 01495 355800.

Schools prodcution. On tomorrow also.

My People Borough Theatre, Abergavenny.

7.30pm, £12/£10. Info 01873 850805.

Octonauts & The Deep Sea Volcano Adventure Grand Theatre, Swansea.

1 + 4pm, £10-£16. Info 01792 475715. Kids’ show.

On tomorrow also.

Peter Pan Goes Wrong New Theatre, Cardiff.

7.30pm, £11.50-£27.50.

Info 029 2087 8889. (Until Sat 2 May) Return Of The Grumpy Old Women Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 8pm, £22.50. Info 01656 815995.

The Addams Family Dolman Theatre, Newport.

7.15pm, £11/£9.50. Info 01633 263670. Musical.

(Until Sat 2 May) The Mill On The Floss Aberystwyth Arts Centre.

7.30pm, £4.25-£8.50. Info 01970 623232. Aberystwyth Arts Centre Youth Theatre adapt George Eliot for the stage. (Until Fri 1 May)

Info info@porterscardiff. com. (Until Sat 16 May) Disney On Ice: Magical Ice Festival Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff. 3 + 7pm, £15.50-£40. Info 029 2022 4488. (Until Sun 3 May) Frank Sanazi + Francesca’s Word Salad Dempseys, Cardiff. 8pm.

Info 029 2023 9253. The life, times and ideology of Hitler, sung in the cabaret style of Frank Sinatra.

Didn’t realise this guy was still around. But he is.

Gladiator Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 8pm, £12/£8. Info 029 2030 4400.

Les Miserables Beaufort Theatre, Ebbw Vale. 6pm, £6 adv. Info 01495 355800.

My People The Riverfront, Newport. 7.30pm, £6-£10.

Info 01633 656757.

Octonauts & The Deep Sea Volcano Adventure Grand Theatre, Swansea.

1 + 4pm, £10-£16. Info 01792 475715.

Peter Pan Goes Wrong New Theatre, Cardiff. 2.30 + 7.30pm, £10-£27.50.

Info 029 2087 8889. (Until Sat 2 May) Return Of The Grumpy Old Women Princess Royal Theatre, Port Talbot.

8pm, £22.50. Info 01639 763214. Subtitled Fifty Shades Of Beige. Now that’s topical!

Ron Vaudry + Jen Brister + Clint Edwards Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 7pm, £10/£5 NUS. Info 0871 4720400. Comedy Carousel night.

Sing-A-Long-A-Sound Of Music St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 7pm, £15. Info 029 2087 8444.

Singin’ In The Rain Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 7.30pm, £120. Info 0845 2263510.

Amateur production presented by The Academy.

(Until Sat 2) The Addams Family Dolman Theatre, Newport.

7.15pm, £11/£9.50. Info 01633 263670. (Until Sat 2 May) The Mill On The Floss Aberystwyth Arts Centre.

7.30pm, £4.25-£8.50. Info 01970 623232. (Until Fri 1 May) The Road To Twickers Theatr Hafren, Newtown.

7.45pm, £10/£8. Info 01686 614555.

The Two Gentlemen Of Verona Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 7.30pm, £10. Info 01656 815995.

Presented by Fluellen.

Winter, Again + Dreamers Taliesin Arts Centre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £8-£15. Info 01792 602060.

Two dance productions by Scottish Dance Theatre..

THURSDAY 30 A Good Clean Heart The Other Room at Porter’s, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12/£10.

BUZZ 77

competitions FREE BOTTLE OF BELVEDERE VODKA It’s spring time, the sun is (hopefully) out and it’s time to start thinking of delicious summer cocktails. A bottle of Belvedere luxury vodka would make those drinks go down smoothly – whether it’s a cosmopolitan, a vodka sour or a classic Martini (Belvedere will, after all, be James Bond’s vodka brand of choice in the next movie). We have six bottles of Belvedere to give away. Simply answer the following question and the winners will be able to pick up their prize from Buzz’s office.

Q: What is Belvedere named after?

CAITLIN MORAN TICKETS

The ever-funny writer Caitlin Moran is heading to St David’s Hall, Cardiff, on Thurs 16 Apr. Her show, How To Build A Girl 2: Oh My God! I Thought Of Some More Things I Want To Say!, is to help promote her latest novel and will include Caitlin’s hilarious ramblings. To win a pair of tickets just answer this question.

Q: What TV show did Caitlin host in the early 1990s?

ZERVAS AND PEPPER TICKETS

Harmony-heavy folk band Zervas And Pepper are releasing their brand new album Abstract Heart this month, and will be celebrating with a gig at The Globe in Cardiff on Fri 1 May. If you fancy nabbing yourself a free pair of tickets (and a free copy of the new album) just answer the following question before Fri 17 Apr. Q: What band were Zervas And Pepper supporting when they played at Liverpool's Echo Arena last year?

YAMATO DRUMMERS OF JAPAN TICKETS

The ancient art of Taiko drumming will be transported all the way from Japan to Cardiff as the Yamato Drummers hit the stage at the Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay, on Mon 27 Apr. If you fancy a pair of tickets to see some of this high-energy rhythm then answer the following question before Fri 17 Apr. Q: According to Japanese folklore, the goddess Ame-no-Uzume created taiko music when she danced upon a barrel of what?

SEANN WALSH TICKETS

The charming and charismatic stand-up comedian Seann Walsh returns to Wales with his new show 28 (cos, y’know, he’s 28 now) where he will talk about how he is now living with his girlfriend, and she is trying to improve him. For your chance to win two tickets to see Seann’s show at Pontardawe Arts Centre on Sat 16 May, just answer this question.

Q: Where did Seann meet his now girlfriend, actress Rebecca Humphries?

MACHYNLLETH COMEDY FESTIVAL TICKETS

Anyone heading to the Machynlleth Comedy Festival in May will be spoilt for choice with the selection of weird and wonderful acts. If you fancy catching a show you can win a pair of tickets to the performance of your choice (as long as it’s not sold out) by answering the following question before Mon 20 Apr. Q: For what occasion was Machynlleth’s clock tower erected?

MOTHER COURAGE AND HER CHILDREN TICKETS

Bertolt Brecht’s 1939 anti-war play Mother Courage And Her Children gets a Welsh revamp as National Theatre Wales brings its own retelling of the tale to Merthyr Labour Club, from Thurs 7 to Fri 22 May. To win a pair of tickets for any night (subject to availability) just answer this question.

Q: How long did Brecht claim it took him to write Mother Courage And Her Children?

BUZZ 78

WIN TICKETS OF YOUR CHOICE In appreciation of the support from you lovely people so far this year, Cardiff Box Office are giving away two tickets to a gig of your choice at The Great Hall, Y Plas or CF10. This competition will work slightly differently to the usual – all you need to do is like and share the 'Cardiff Box Office' Facebook page between Wed 1 Apr and Sun 31 May and a winner will be picked at random.

Please email your answers, name, address, Twitter username (if you have one) and contact number to competitions@buzzmag.co.uk by Mon 1 June unless otherwise stated. T&Cs: WE DO NOT GIVE PERMISSION FOR THESE COMPETITIONS TO BE REPLICATED OR SHARED ANYWHERE ONLINE.

Come and see us at one of our Open Days ‌ Interested in studying at Cardiff Met? Then why not come and see us at one of our forthcoming Open Days.

This is your chance to speak to staff about your course interests, talk to current students about their experiences and take a tour of our facilities and accommodation.

Open Day Dates by Academic School Cardiff School of Art & Design: Sat 3rd June 2015 Cardiff School of Education: Sat 6th June 2015 Cardiff School of Health Sciences: Sat 25th April 2015 and Sat 13th June 2015 Cardiff School of Management: Sat 18th April 2015 and Sat 13th June 2015 Cardiff School of Sport: Sat 6th June 2015 To book onto any of our Open Days please visit: cardiffmet.ac.uk/opendays You can also take a tour of campuses, facilities and accommodation at: www.cardiffmet.ac.uk/virtualtours #cardiffmet

KJIHQPOLNM

20-23 AUGUST, BRECON BEACONS, WALES

ST VINCENT ¥SUPER FURRY ANIMALS ¥ H�T CHIP SLOWDIVE ¥ GOAT ¥ FATHER JOHN MISTY ¥ CALEXICO TELEVISION ¥ MEW ¥ C�URTNEY BARNETT ¥ THE FALL PUBLIC SERVICE BR�ADCASTING ¥ TEMPLES ¥ THE STAVES CHARLES BRADLEY ¥ SUN RA ARKESTRA ¥ MATTHEW E WHITE JAMIE XX ¥ BEYOND THE WIZARDÔS SLEEVE ¥ THE 2 BEARS THE LEISURE SOCIETY ¥ SYLVAN ESSO ¥ DAN DEACON ¥ SON LUX ¥ WHITE FENCE HGKWORMS ¥ WAXAHATCHEE ¥ VIET CONG ¥ THE WAVE PICTURES ¥ NATALIE PRASS MARIKA HACKMAN ¥ OWEN PALLETT ¥ SONGH�Y BLUES ¥ STURGILL SIMPSON THE PICTISH TRAIL & SWEET BABG ¥ EMMY THE GREAT ¥ STRAND OF OAKS STEVE GUNN ¥ PETER BRODERICK ¥ ALASDAIR ROBERTS ¥ THIS IS THE KIT RYLEY WALKER ¥ RICHARD DAWSON SLUG ¥ ZUN ZUN EGUI ¥ H HAWKLINE JANE WEAVER ¥ ZEFUR WOLVES ¥ KIRAN LEONARD ¥ THE DRINK BC CAMPLIGHT ¥ ULTIMATE PAINTING ¥ HOOTON TENNIS CLUB MEILYR JONES ¥ TRUST FUND ¥ ALEX BUREY ¥ COREY BOWEN

PLUS TEN ENTERTAINMENT AREAS IN LUSH WELSH WILDERNESS.

ÒTHE SUMMER WONÔT GET BETTER THAN THISÓ THE GUARDIAN

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