Buzz Magazine - August 2019 Edition

WHAT’S ON AUGUST 2019

WELCOME TO SUMMER We list the best things to do in the sunshine

RHYS IFANS teams up with Rakie Ayola in Ed Thomas’ On Bear Ridge

EXTINCTION REBELLION | GREEN MAN | SKUNK ANANSIE | FEEDER ART | CULTURE | MUSIC | FILM | FOOD+DRINK |

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LIFESTYLE

august 2019

buzz... publisher EMMA CLARK editor FEDOR TOT listings/music editor NOEL GARDNER advertising EMMA CLARK accounts TERESA CLARK design LEMONDOGCREATIVE.UK contributors KEIRON SELF (FILMS), JOE ALI, CHRIS ANDREWS, SARAH BOWDIDGE, MORGAN DEVINE, SAM EASTERBROOK, JENI GOUGH, MAX HARVEY, ELOUISE HOBBS, PAUL JENKINS, FELIX JONES, MAIR LLEWELLYN, TONICHA LUFFMAN, JASON MACHLAB, CARL MARSH, JOHN MCLOUGHLIN, LYNDA NASH, DAVID NOBAKHT, ALISON POWELL, CAMPBELL PROSSER, JOSH REES, RHONDA LEE REALI, GEORGIA ROBERTS, OWEN SCOURFIELD, CHRIS SEAL, JANANI SURI, JON SUTTON, ISABEL THOMAS, AMY WATTS, BEN WOOLHEAD phone number 029 2022 6767 general enquiries info@buzzmag.co.uk editorial editorial@buzzmag.co.uk listings listings@buzzmag.co.uk accounts accounts@buzzmag.co.uk BUZZ MAGAZINE 220C Cowbridge Road East, Canton, Cardiff CF5 1GY published EAC PUBLISHING cover ON BEAR RIDGE contents EXTINCTION REBELLION

(PIC: NIGEL PUGH)

buzzmagwales

04roundup

“With around 3,500 people attending it feels like a really cool garden party at your friend’s house”

12upfront

Yes, it’s the summer listicle, the truly applicable summer listicle. It’s called Summer Days Out and it’s about summer days out. Which festival gives you the opportunity to hunt for space dust as one of its prescribed activities? Find out inside! Plus Skunk Anansie, Pride Cymru and a report on Extinction Rebellion’s recent climate-alarming, policeappeasing shenanigans in Cardiff

32film

It doesn’t feel that long ago that Jamie Adams was sending me listings for the miniscule indie gigs he was promoting in Porthcawl, but now he’s garnering praise from Keiron Self for his latest directing job, a Glasgow-set movie co-written with the singer from Biffy Clyro. It only feels slightly longer ago that the singer from Biffy Clyro was playing in Cardiff Barfly and cracking on to my girlfriend of the time

34previews

Four pages and 20 events plucked from the month’s metaphorical merkin, including a preview of a retrospective exhibition for Andrew Vicari, the Welsh painter of ‘big with Saudi royals, couldn’t get arrested anywhere else’ renown. Currently reading an interview from several years ago where he scornfully calls Damien Hirst an “ornithologist”, rather than taxidermist, and failing to stifle giggles

@Buzz_Magazine

42reviews

It’s another of those months where nearly everything gets four out of five. In fact the only album to really get a negative review is also the only one by a local act. I’m noting this to try and pre-empt the slim possibility of someone emailing to say, “why aren’t you nicer about Welsh music” or whatever. To answer: reviewers aren’t expected to say things are good if they don’t actually think it is

49lifestyle

Including Jon Sutton’s look at the intersection of boxing and mental health, plus a banquet of foodrelated morsels, including a paean to BBQ/ing and two amusingly juxtaposed news items that show why we were voted Pork Princess and Little Miss Kosher

61listings

Worst band names in this issue: Sexy Pretty Things, She Made Me Do It, Dry Cleaning, Twammers, Al & The Salty Seadogs, Touch The Fist

78competitions

“Absolutely great to see the guys back to their best,” as reviewer Owen wrote about Feeder’s new album, which you can win a copy of along with theatre and festival tickets. A sentiment that will resonate with all who remember the guys of Feeder not being at their best

@buzzmagwales

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www.buzzmag.co.uk BUZZ 3

What’s on our radar this month ONE MATCH

In honour of the 17th Homeless World Cup, an associated exhibition, One Match, is being displayed in Cardiff’s Ffotogallery.

Paul John Roberts’ photography captures the players and trainers’ trials, tribulation and celebrations during the buildup to the event,

whilst highlighting the tournament’s social benefits, increasing awareness of homelessness, and challenging the negative stereotypes that surround them.

Ffotogallery, 29 Castle St, Cardiff, until Sat 10 Aug. Admission: free. Info: 029 2070 8870 / www.ffotogallery.org

CLUB TROPICANA

Take a trip back to the 1980s this summer and enjoy some of the era’s most iconic pop anthems performed live on stage by a cast including Joe McElderry (X Factor), Neil McDermott (EastEnders), Kate Robbins (Dinnerladies), Emily Tierney (The Wizard Of Oz) and former Sugababe Amelle Berrabah.

Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay, Tue 13-Sat 17 Aug, Tickets: £16.50-£45.50.

Info: 029 2063 6464 / www.wmc.org.uk

HISSY HANDLING SESSIONS

In support of the summer exhibition Snakes!, Cardiff museum offers the opportunity to get cosy with a few of the titular reptiles this summer. Open to all ages, the shows are run by professional snake handlers and are certain to provide a unique kind of entertainment that kids especially will love. None of the snakes are venomous, but remember to treat them kindly all the same!

National Museum Cardiff, Weekly on Wednesday until Wed 28 Aug. Admission: £5.

Info: www.museumwales.ac.uk BUZZ 4

PASSING THROUGH

Charlotte Cortazzi’s exhibition Passing Through, is being displayed at the Torch Theatre this August. These pieces were inspired by a walk through the Camino de Santiago last year: “a glimpse of a moment in time, as the landscape around us is always changing,” in her words. The exhibition will be accompanied by Sue Kullai’s poems, and sculptures by Robert Jakes and Pauline Le Britton.

Oriel Joanna Field, Torch Theatre, Milford Haven, Fri 2-Sat 31 Aug. Admission: free. Info: 01646 695287 / www.torchtheatre.co.uk

THE TEARAWAYS

Pop-rockers The Tearaways visit the UK this summer touting their latest album, We Grew Up On AM Radio. Originally from Santa Barbara in California, the band now features Blondie drummer Clem Burke alongside John Finseth, Greg Brallier, John Ferriter and David Hekhouse.

Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff, Sat 17 Aug. Tickets: £15. Info: 029 2023 2199 / www.clwb.net

CHILDREN’S HISTORY FESTIVAL

Wales’ first-ever Kids’ History Festival features at around 25 historic sites across the country, with hundreds of events, activities and educational experiences. Join a WWI takeover at Blaenavon Ironworks, immerse yourself in Victorian life at Castell Coch or enjoying Beaumaris Castle’s annual Medieval Extravaganza.

Cadw historic sites across Wales, until Sat 25 Aug. Tickets: free after admission to the site. Info: cadw.gov.wales

ROYAL BLOOD

English rock duo Royal Blood, visit Newport this month for a brief, unsurprisingly sold out tour of smallerthan-usual venues. The duo of Mike Kerr and Ben Thatcher are currently underway creating the follow-up to their 2017 album, How Did We Get So Dark.

Newport Centre, Sat 10 Aug. Tickets: £30 (sold out – check box office for returns).

Info: 01633 656757 / www.newportlive.co.uk

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Pic: Nathan Shaw

ERIC NGALLE CHARLES Eric Ngalle Charles came to Wales with virtually nothing over 20 years ago after a nightmare stay in Russia in which he was trafficked by criminals. Now a successful author with a recently published memoir, he imparts wisdom to Fedor Tot. When did you first realise you had a gift for expressing yourself in words?

When I was about eight my brother bought me a book called The Swahili Songs Of Love And Passion and I was so fascinated by the language of Swahili and its translation into English. I thought it would be a good idea for me to write a poem to my mother. So that evening my mother and my sisters were in the kitchen and they said, “OK Eric, read out the poem you wrote to your mum.” It was something like, “Dearest mother, you are beautiful like the snowflakes of Siberia. Everybody knows where you are. No one dares.”

My mother just left the kitchen, went into the room, packed my little bags and kicked me out of the house. So that was my first attempt at writing. My mum got it all wrong because she thought I was making a mockery of the fact that many men came and left her bedchambers. Maybe I was, but I was just complimenting her.

Those were the early days.

You said it took you 20 years to articulate what happened to you in Russia.

How did that process of articulation start and how did you approach it?

If you look at my earliest poems in 2003-2004, you can see that I was hiding behind language. From 2016 until now, my writing has become very transparent because I thought, ‘how will people understand my story?’ Everything that’s happened, and the fact that I am still alive, is a mystery. But I cannot tell this story directly without traumatising the reader or the audience, so I have to feed it drip by drip, [starting with] the anthology Hiraeth Erzolirzoli [2018]. For me, that is far more important than this memoir, which is from a very lonely place.

I’ve been writing since my first article came out in the South Wales Echo in 2001.

I wrote that because of the confusion that I was still processing in my head – that I am from southern Cameroon and we speak English, as it was a former colony.

I [also] speak French, I speak Pidgin, I speak Bakweri. I speak fluent Russian because of the circumstances.

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You’ve talked a lot about home. What constitutes ‘home’ to you?

I’m kind of homeless mentally because I am here in Wales, but miss Cameroon.

But when I was in Cameroon in 2017, I was missing Wales! I’ve spent longer in Wales than in Cameroon, so I’m permanently fluctuating between homes.

When you miss a place, is it people, geography, familiarity?

It’s everything put together. By the time I came to Wales I was already 20 years old, so I spent my first 17 years in Cameroon where there’s mountains, seas, greenery, everything. After two years in Russia, I’ve spent 20 years in Wales. Wales and I are intrinsically linked. There is no way I can speak of Cameroon without mentioning Wales, vice-versa. But Russia is always there like a shadow.

Do you think you’ll ever feel at home anywhere at this point?

It’s a very difficult question to answer. I met this Chilean poet in Swansea called Humberto Gatica: for him, his home is his luggage that he carries around. So wherever he settles for the night, that becomes home.

When I went to Cameroon it was completely different. It has changed, I have changed. From the age of 18, every time someone in the village dies the youth are the gravediggers. There were a lot of graves dug by my peers that I never took part in – I was an alien already. All of my friends are in the army or dead. All of my sisters have left so it was only my mother. It took time to adjust.

I live in my memory a lot. Writing this book, every time I’d go into my memory I was in Cameroon and that’s what kept me going. At least I knew that I once had a home that was built with pillars of love, and love is what makes exile bearable.

Anywhere you are, if you can find love then it becomes home.

I, Eric Ngalle is out now, published by Parthian Books. Price: £8.99. Info: www.parthianbooks.com

Buzz - August 19_Layout 1 17/07/2019 16:55 Page 1

KEVIN BLOODY WILSON Almost Awesome 16.10.19

ROB BECKETT Wallop 04.10.19 & 05.10.19

SANDI TOKSVIG National Trevor 09.01.20

DAVID BADDIEL Trolls: Not the Dolls 25.01.20

JIMMY CARR Terribly Funny 03.10.20

JOHN ROBINS Hot Shame 26.11.19

MILTON JONES Milton: Impossible 11.03.20

BEN ELTON Live 2019 07.11.19

PAUL SMITH Following 14.09.19 & 10.01.20

ROSS NOBLE Humournoid 27.04.20

ED BYRNE If I’m Honest 21.03.20

PIC: Ben Salter

Pic: Brechfa Forest

BOOK NOW MARVEL STATION CARDIFF

St David’s, Cardiff Sun 3-Mon 9 Sept Tickets: from £10 Info: www.avengersstation.co.uk/about/ cardiff

SECRET SPACES: THE BIG CWTCH Good music, good food, family activities, wholesome vibes and an emphasis on Welsh creativity make up this Carmarthenshire festival, as its producer Amanda Drury tells Georgia Roberts.

Can you tell us a bit about the inspiration behind the Big Cwtch?

It was born after a fun, wine-fuelled weekend away at the International Eisteddfod in Llangollen. Co-founders, Bethan Drinkall and her husband Dave, wanted to host an end-of-summer event in their grounds at Glanrannell Park House to raise funds and awareness for Bethan’s charity Ski4All Wales, founded to provide adaptive ski classes and rehabilitation at Pembrey Country Park. As I run an event consultancy for my day job we started to develop ideas, and eight weeks later we were opening the gates to the first ever Big Cwtch Summer Party.

Is it important to you to represent Welsh artists?

It’s so inspiring to see how The Big Cwtch has grown in the past six years as a platform for emerging and breakthrough artists from across Wales, and fabulous to watch many of those artists go onto take the Welsh and UK music scene by storm.

What makes this particular festival unique compared to something like bigger like Green Man? The Cwtch is a really intimate gathering… with around 3,500 people attending it feels like a really cool garden party at your friend’s house. It’s especially lovely for families and groups of friends. The site is really compact but every corner is packed full of magical happenings.

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Seeing as you partner with Ski4All, can you tell us more about the importance of the partnership and how they are represented through the festival?

Ski4 All Wales are at the heart of everything we do. Since we started supporting them six years ago, through increased awareness and funding they’ve now become a leading force in adaptive skiing in the UK. They’ve also brought so much to The Big Cwtch in terms of partnerships, volunteers, community engagement and ethos, and have helped us underpin our festival philosophy and accessibility agenda, enabling us to champion our Access For All policy and enrol as part of the national Attitude Is Everything accreditation supporting access for all at live music events across the UK.

If you could recommend one place in Wales to a first-time visitor that’s not on the tourist maps and off the beaten tracks, where would it be and why?

The Big Cwtch is in one of the most beautiful parts of Carmarthenshire, so there are just too many incredible undiscovered places to visit close by.

The Brechfa Forest and Cothi Valley are simply stunning, and one of my personal favourite places for walking and picnics is Llyn y Fan Fach.

The Big Cwtch, Glanrannell Park House, Crugybar, Carmarthenshire, Fri 30 + Sat 31 Aug. Tickets: £50 weekend/£60 inc camping/£15-£40 Sat 31 only. Info: www.thebigcwtch. com

COWBRIDGE MUSIC FESTIVAL

Various venues, Cowbridge Fri 6-Sat 21 Sept Tickets: £14.30 Info: 01446 773824 www.cowbridgemusicfestival.co.uk

CARDIFF FILM & COMIC CON

Motorpoint Arena Cardiff Sat 7 + Sun 8 Sept Tickets: from £8 Info: 029 2022 4488 www.motorpointarenacardiff.co.uk

ONLY FOOLS THE CUSHTY DINING EXPERIENCE Margam Park, nr Port Talbot Thu 12 + Fri 13 Sept Tickets: £55 Info: www.margamorangery.com

NARBERTH FOOD FESTIVAL

Narberth Museum, Pembrokeshire Sat 28 + Sun 29 Sept Tickets: from £4 Info: www.narberthfoodfestival.com

Cyn bi hir

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Coming Soon

Freckle Productions present

29 Aug . Awst - 1 Sept . Medi

9 - 14 Sept . Medi

17 - 28 Sept . Medi

8 - 12 Oct . Hydref

14 - 19 Oct . Hydref

AGATHA CHRISTIE’S

1 - 5 Oct . Hydref

ON BEAR RIDGE Ed Thomas and Rhys Ifans are set to join forces in one of the biggest events in Welsh theatre in years. Fedor Tot gazes into the dirt-filled future of On Bear Ridge.

September sees the premiere of one of the most exciting happenings in Welsh and UK theatre for a while. It’s the return of renowned playwright and writer Ed Thomas to the stage where he first made his name over 20 years ago, the headline figure of a cabal of raw and vital Welsh writers who emerged in the 1990s. It’s also the return of Rhys Ifans to a Welsh stage after many years away.

The play On Bear Ridge itself, a co-production between National Theatre Wales and the Royal Court, stars Ifans as John Daniel, the owner of Bear Ridge Stores with his partner Noni, played by Rakie Ayola. Bear Ridge Stores, as far as early information goes, is the kind of mythical family store we’ve long since lost.

In a lost village, blurred by redrawn borders, hidden under a crumb on the map, Bear Ridge Stores still stands. After a hundred years, the family butchers and grocers – a place for odds and ends, contraband goods, and the last petrol pump for 30 miles – is now silent. But owners John Daniel and Noni are not leaving.

They are defiantly drinking the remaining whiskey and remembering good times, when everyone was on the same side and the old language shone. Outside in the dark, a figure is making their way towards them.

Ed Thomas is in the author’s seat (co-directing alongside Vicky Featherstone) – marking a return to Welsh theatre for the writer – this is his first play in

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15 years. Thomas’ most recent credits include Hinterland / Y Gwyll, which received international acclaim across the globe. He made his name in the 90s as part of a wave of Welsh writers unafraid to get ugly, dirty and gritty. A writer with his sort of pedigree, especially in the world of crime drama (though the play is not rooted in crime genre tropes), and one adept at portraying Wales’ crooked teeth, may well be a perfect fit for this sort of story, sure to be challenging and bold. On Bear Ridge, it seems, is a deeply personal piece for Ed and elements of his childhood life creep into the narrative. It’s also a continuation of Ed’s relationship with composer John Hardy, who will add audio-visual elements to the play. Vicky Featherstone, the directing partner, was a key figure in the inauguration of National Theatre Scotland, NTW’s Celtic cousins, and is an artistic director of London’s Royal Court Theatre.

Rhys Ifans is sure to be an interesting choice in the lead role. Although he’s never truly left his Welsh roots, it was his role as Spike in Notting Hill that brought him international recognition. Before that, of course, he was known to British audiences as the star of Twin Town, but in recent years he has also been seen in stellar performances in Dan Y Wenallt as Captain Cat (a film based on Dylan Thomas’ Under Milk Wood and Xenophilius Lovegood in Harry Potter

and the Deathly Hallows. Ifans is the sort of livewire actor who can electrify a production. His choices have set him apart from the rest – splitting his time between Hollywood and British film and theatre work. Whilst Rhys Ifans is undoubtedly the star name, the rest of the cast are a small but highly qualified number of seasoned pros. Rakie Ayola will be familiar from Holby City, has a great track record and will likely bring a much tougher performance to this play. Jason Hughes, most familiar from Midsomer Murders and Marcella, plays the Captain whilst Sion Daniel Young plays Ifan. Young is a rising star: he has appeared on the Sherman stage already in the award-winning production Killology, and recently starred in acclaimed BBC film The Left Behind, about the far-right radicalisation of a group of young men in Wales.

The play will be accompanied by a site-specific installation - No Petrol for 12 miles - created on Penwyllt in the upper Swansea Valley, close to Thomas’ childhood home. Audiences at the Sherman Theatre and the Royal Court will also be able to experience this through a VR film that will be available to watch at both theatres making the landscape of On Bear Ridge accessible in the centre of these busy cities. The installations will temporarily exist in

the landscape as fragmented remains of what was once there - a collection of lost things, half-forgotten sounds and memories, slowly sinking back into earth and rock. They will offer visitors glimpses of a vanished world, allowing people to digitally listen at a door and hear whispered voices, half-truths and unfinished stories from a way of life grown silent. A story that was never told.

An act of remembering the forgotten.

On Bear Ridge, Sherman Theatre, Cardiff, Fri 20 Sept-Sat 5 Oct. Tickets: £7.50-£20.

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

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SUMMER DAYS

The sun is shining. The grass is green. The water is refreshing. And yet, you wonder just how to make use of this weather. We’ve collated the best events of the summer and beyond for you to enjoy the warmth whilst it lasts WRITTEN BY MAIR LLEWELLYN, GEORGIA ROBERTS AND AMY WATTS

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Pic: Visit Wales

ADVENTURE There’s plenty of wilderness in Wales to drop yourself into. We pick out some of the best.

DRAGON ACTIVITY GUIDES St David’s, Pembrokeshire The west Wales-based adventure activity providers are once again providing all the fun that an adrenaline junkie could desire. Owners Alun and Bramble are two friends and outdoor enthusiasts dedicated to giving people an exhilarating, unforgettable experience in their favourite playground, the Pembrokeshire coastline. As well as guiding visitors out of their comfort zones and into the ice-cold sea, their team of expert instructors are also on hand to give out personal recommendations and help make the most of your stay in their home county.

Dragon also run speciality packages which let you live out Castaway – abandoning modern life on a two-day expedition to challenge your resourcefulness – and you can sample some famous local produce and freshly caught seafood at their BBQs. An opportunity to explore the stunning Welsh coast with the help of expert locals.

GOOD DAY OUT Various locations in the Brecon Beacons A day out with a difference: take a walk with a donkey, go for a ‘pig-nic’ or meet a hedgehog with Good Day Out, a Brecon-based organisation which provides unique experiences for animal lovers and donates a portion of the proceeds to good causes throughout the UK. Started by founder Julia Blazer with the hope of showcasing the breathtaking rural area and providing an income for locals, these experiences are a unique way to discover the local landscape and are ideal for family days out, team-building exercises or a well-deserved treat for a loved-one.

Info: 01874 749092 / www.gooddayout.co.uk

ZIP WORLD Penhryn Quarry Those in search of a completely unique, rip-roaring ride and pump of adrenaline should probably head to north Wales and try out Zip World’s ever-expanding selection of out-there adventures.

Turning heads since the launch of Velocity in 2013 – the fastest zip line in the world, with views over Penrhyn Quarry – their offering has now expanded to include two other locations. Ride the Fforest Coaster, fly through the forest on a giant swing, plummet 100ft at Zip World Fforest or head underground to find your way through the former slate mines and discover an entire sub-terrestrial playground.

Info: www.zipworld.co.uk

Info: 01437 720077 / www.dragonactivityguides.co.uk

Zip World

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summer days

BOULDERS CLIMBING CENTRE St Catherine’s Park, Cardiff If you’re bored of the gym and up for a new challenge, Boulders has the answer with a range of different climbing activities. Whether you’re a complete newbie or a seasoned climber looking to push yourself, there’s something your local climbing centre can offer. There are classes and coaching sessions for those looking to improve their skills, weekly social clubs to get to know your fellow climbing enthusiasts and even some outdoor taster days if you fancy putting those skills to the test out in the real world.

Info: 029 2048 4880 / www.bouldersuk.com

CARDIGAN BAY WATERSPORTS New Quay, Cardigan Bay New Quay, on the southern tip of Cardigan Bay, is not just a stunning seaside town but also one of the best places in the UK to see bottlenose dolphins in the wild – they’re viewable from the pier as they jump around in the water, but a succession of boat trips will take you closer to the magnificent creatures. If you’re interested in going further into the water though, Cardigan Bay Watersports has plentiful options. Sailing, kayaking, windsurfing and paddleboarding are just some of the activities on offer, with the beautiful beach of New Quay a beautiful backdrop to your sunny day out.

Info: www.cardiganbaywatersports.org.uk Adventure Parc Snowdonia

SURF SNOWDONIA

SKYDIVE SWANSEA

Adventure Parc Snowdonia, until Mon 30 Sept Set against a backdrop of mountains and forests it may be, but this is the world’s first man-made surf lagoon – one catering for the beginner, intermediate, or advanced wave rider looking to have some fun this summer. Child lessons are structured to encourage a healthy lifestyle and to become confident, considerate surfers. On top of that, the Surf Snowdonia complex is increasing in size, with an indoor section brimming with activities like artificial caving and wall climbing for the rough-and-tumble hungry amongst you.

Tickets: £35-£250 (wetsuit hire: £6) / from £12 (for indoor section)

Fairwood, Swansea Whether you’re ticking another box on your bucket list, raising money for charity or perhaps looking for an extreme method for tackling your fear of heights, Wales’ National Skydiving Club in Swansea is there to give you that rush of adrenaline. A team of qualified experts are trained and ready to guide you through your choice of activity: a tandem jump from 12,000 feet with dual controls so you can help your instructor lead the way, the ground rush skydive which drops you from 7,000, as well as options to treasure the memories with camera flyers on hand to capture your beautiful, windswept faces.

Info: adventureparcsnowdonia.com

Info: 01792 207035 / www.skydiveswansea.co.uk

GO KARTING If you’re looking for something new and fun to unleash your inner Lewis Hamilton, there’s plentiful option.

The 500m go-kart track on Cardiff’s Newport Road has electronic timing and is fully indoors, whilst Supakart in Newport is much the same. Skidz in Swansea is a tad smaller and a members-only venue, but has a challenging track, whilst the biggest is probably the South Wales Karting Centre, which is outdoors but provides over 1000m of track. In each place there’s a mix of family and semi-competitive packages, learner and experienced, to mix and match the best possible day out.

Info: www.team-sport.co.uk/cardiff / www. supakart.co.uk/the-track / www.skidzkarting. co.uk

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Cardigan Bay Watersports

CARDIFF INTERNATIONAL WHITE WATER Watkiss Way, Cardiff The UK’s first Olympic standard white water rafting facility promises a day of thrills, challenges and action-packed fun with a line-up of adrenaline-fuelling activities for all ages and abilities. Throw yourself into white water rafting, try your hand at kayaking, test out your balance with paddle boarding and channel your inner surfer on the indoor wave. If you take a liking to watersports, you can even sign up for their many courses to further improve your skills. Family taster sessions are also available if you’d like the test the waters first.

Info: www.ciww.com

summer days ADVENTURE continued

FAMILY FRIENDLY It’s every parent’s greatest challenge: how do you keep the kids entertained whilst school’s out? Buzz has got your back.

WORLD BOG SNORKELLING CHAMPIONSHIPS

SUMMER HOLIDAY SHENANIGANS Cantref Park, Brecon, until Mon 2 Sept This summer holidays, Cantref Park has a jam-packed line-up of activities, live shows, and special events to keep kids entertained no matter the weather. Own A Pony Day, Dinosaur Day, Unicorn Design, and the Maize Maze are just some of what’s on offer. Their usual lineup of pet handling and feeding shows will also continue to run.

Tickets: £2.50-£10.50

Waen Rhyd bog, Llanwrtyd Wells, Sun 25 Aug In its spiritual home at Llanwrtyd Wells, the Bog Snorkelling Championships are easily one of the bizarrest and best things to happen in Wales. Competitive and popular, the 34th year of this tradition sees hundreds of snorkellers racing to the finish line in muddy waters, many in fancy dress. Swimming a total of 120 yards, competitors will attempt to beat the world record of one minute 22.56 seconds – currently held by Kirsty Johnson, who says a massive sense of humour is required for the competition. If you’re not too keen on getting muddy, spectating is free, with plenty of food and drink and entertainment available.

Entry: £15/spectators free Info: www.green-events.co.uk

Info: cantref.com

AQUAPARK CARDIFF Cardiff Bay Barrage, daily until Mon 9 Sept Brand new to Cardiff this summer, the biggest Aqua Park in Wales’ first supersoaking season measures more than 8000 square feet, the floating inflatable obstacle course resembles Total Wipeout, with climbing walls, trampolines, rockers, rollers, and the UK’s largest inflatable slides. Pre-booking for this event is essential as there will be no on-the-day ticketing or admission.

Tickets: £15-£20 Info: aquaparkgroup.co.uk/Cardiff

GO APE TREETOP ADVENTURE CHALLENGE Margam County Park, Port Talbot, until Sun 1 Dec For the thrill seekers out there, Go Ape’s Treetop Adventure Challenge will be open all summer offering free-falling from six metres on the UK’s biggest Tarzan swing, alongside a multitude of obstacle courses and zip wires. Surely vertigo-inducing, but there are few other places to feel as wild as this in Wales.

Tickets: from £20 Info: goape.co.uk/adventures/tree-top-challenge

Bog Snorkelling

CARDIFF SAILING CENTRE Queen Alexandra Road, Cardiff Cardiff Bay isn’t just for theatre shows and chain restaurants – it’s also home to the Cardiff Sailing Centre, dedicated to introducing city folk to the exhilarating world of water sports. Challenge yourself to a sailing course, try your hand at windsurfing or even have a go at fishing. Land-based activities such as archery and Laserblast are also available for those who aren’t so fond of the water.

Info: 029 2087 7977 / www.cbwac.com

Aquapark

DRY SKIING Love skiing but not so keen on the cold weather? There are a few options dotted around Wales – most notably in Pembrey near Llanelli, Pontypool, and the Fairwater area of Cardiff. All offer skiing lessons and a variety of family-friendly activity, or just the opportunity to enjoy the slopes on your own and keep your skiing skills ice-fresh ahead of Raceday a winter trip to the Alps.

Big Family Info: www.pembreycountrypark.wales/ / www.skicardiff.co.uk/ / www. torfaenleisuretrust.co.uk

LLANGORSE LAKE Brecon Beacons National Park One of the most scenic places in Wales, Llangorse Lake offers a multitude of activities on top of its stunning views. Once there, you can go on a simple boat trip out on the lake, fish, waterski or hike. It’s the largest natural lake in south Wales, and the only lake in the country to feature a crannog (a fortified dwelling constructed in a lake). With options of pitching up your caravan and dogfriendly locations, this location has plenty to offer for a spectacular day out.

Info: www.llangorselake.co.uk

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Gorffennaf 20 July – Medi 1 September 2019

GAIA

Dewch i gael golwg newydd ar y ddaear See the world for free

wmc.org.uk

BUZZ 17

summer days FESTIVALS - MUSIC AND FOOD+DRINK

BBQ JAM

So you haven’t bagged tickets to Green Man. What now? Well, here are a few other great options for you to bring the party animal out!

LANDED FESTIVAL Doldowlod Estate, nr Rhayader, Powys Fri 2-Sun 4 Aug Set on a hillside estate near the spa town of Llandrindod Wells, Landed promises to curate an adrenaline-filled weekend; presenting independent musicians, self-employed technicians and artisans.

This year, the festival offers an entirely new stage, Nefelibata, with a dreamy and calm atmosphere which encourages attendees to zone out and embrace their inner rebel. The festival’s kids’ team have also assembled a series of creative workshops for you to lose yourself in, such as the Annual Pimp Your Duck Race, family camping and circus entertainment.

Tickets: £25-£70 weekend; £25 per day; £15 per evening Info: www.landedfestival.co.uk

BRECON JAZZ FESTIVAL Various venues, Brecon, Thurs 8-Sun 11 Aug An annual operation since the mid-1980s, Brecon Jazz returns with an impressive lineup of both established and upcoming musicians, playing in cafes and venues across the scenic town. On Saturday, the streets of Brecon close down to become a whirlwind of color and sound, making way for the Saturday Carnival and other outdoor festivities. This year, attendees will also get to view the Junior Jazz Festival, for free. Here, instrumentalists and vocalists between the ages of eight and 18 perform, led and directed by the Royal Welsh College Of Music & Drama.

Tickets: £175 full weekend pass; £65-£85 day pass; £6-£38 individual concerts.

Info: www.breconjazzfestival.co.uk

CASTELL ROC Chepstow Castle , Thurs 8-Sun 25 Aug The high walls of Chepstow’s historic castle will again be filled with classic rock tributes across 12 evenings.

The Police’s back catalogue is tackled by tribute band The Police Synchronicity, ds:UK serve up Dire Straits, and U2UK perform all of U2’s hit songs and more. You can expect a fun, family friendly experience within the castle itself, whether you’re reminiscing to ABBA Mania or enjoying esteemed Elvis tribute act Ben Portsmouth. In the ‘playing their own songs’ category, there’s also The Shires (Fri 9), Los Pacaminos (Thurs 15) and Reef (Sat 24).

Tickets: from £20.

Info: www.castellroc.co.uk

SOLARSPHERE Penmaenau Farm , Fri 9-Sun 11 Aug This family-friendly camping weekend held in the Welsh countryside aims to teach people of all ages about our solar system. Independent and non-profit, Solarsphere mixes education and fun using musical performances, academic talks and educational workshops for both adults and children. The musical line-up includes bands named things like Alien Stash Tin and Tyrannosaurus Nebulous, as well as a Nirvana tribute band called In Vitro. The camp also calls in professional astronomers to hold lectures, such as science writer Professor Nigel Henbest and space geologist Dr Tim Gregory. The workshops aspire to be as entertaining as possible and activities include night sky observation, making your own moon and hunting for space dust.

Tickets: £50 weekend; £25 13-16-year-olds; free under-12s

Pic: Nenad Obradovic Tgle

Info: www.solarsphere.events

BUZZ 18

Tredegar Park, Newport, Sat 10 Aug Only three years since the first BBQ Jam festival took place, and it’s back in Newport this August. This year’s festival will bring with it some of the funkiest house, bassline and grime along with it, plus tasty street food.

The lineup includes scene heavyweights Ms Banks and Marcus Nasty, with intense underground sounds guaranteed on the menu, while DJ Young Lion is set to serve some uniquely mixed reggae tunes in the headline slot.

Tickets: £20 Info: www.eventrii.com

SEA 2 SHORE FOOD FESTIVAL Aberystwyth Promenade, Sun 11 Aug Taking over Aberystwyth’s Victorian promenade, this annual event will once again feature entertainment, crafts, and of course plenty of food. The festival was established in order to raise awareness of the fishing industry in Cardigan Bay, promoting locally-sourced food and drink. With Sea2Shore’s sustainability message in mind, the festival celebrates everything local: Welsh cheeses and wines, locally-caught fish, fresh-grown vegetables, and reared meat.

Admission: free Info: showmewales.co.uk

TRUEFEST Baskerville Hall, Powys, Fri 16-Mon 19 Aug Wild and wonderful boutique festival, known for its love of fancy dress, adopts the theme of Animal Magic for 2019. Often dubbed a three-day house party, Truefest is on the more intimate side with just 1000 tickets up for grabs. Set in a mansion with a swimming pool, hotel rooms and glamping, this isn’t your average festival.

As well as the stellar lineup of acts including DJ Yoda, guests will also be treated to tightrope and aerial performances, mind trickery and burlesque shows.

Tickets: £95 Info: www.truefest.co.uk

FAMILY FRIENDLY continued FAIRIES AND FOLKLORE Newport Wetlands, Mon 5-Thurs 8 Aug Held in Newport’s wildlife reserve, this three-day event is perfect for kids that love to exploring the outdoors. Taking inspiration from Welsh folklore, the event is bound to add some magic to their adventures with activities like potion mixing and wand making. The kids can immerse themselves in a magical tale all the while being entertained by the outdoor challenges made for them. As well as this, you can enjoy a relaxing picnic onsite with some light refreshments available. Perfect for a family day out or for a group outing.

Tickets: £5.50 Info: www.rspb.org.uk

TOURNAMENT OF THE KNIGHTS Cardiff Castle, Wed 17 + Thurs 18 Aug Realistic medieval fighting tournaments that’ll have you feeling transported back in time, as Cardiff Castle is filled with knights in shining armour and their trusty squires. With the opportunity to test your archery skills, practice your circus tricks or join in on some medieval games, this event brings back the more palatable parts of the olden times.

Live music will be included, with performances by the Minstrels De Clare.

Tickets: £3-£7

CHEPSTOW RACECOURSE – BIG FAMILY RACEDAY Chepstow Racecourse, Mon 26 Aug Chepstow Racecourse has plenty of events planned for the holidays to keep kids entertained and parents happy with free entry for under 18s. The August Bank Holiday sees the racecourse going Jurassic, with a whole host of dinosaur-themed activities and a bunch of model dinosaurs. For those less predator-inclined, other entertainment including fun fair rides, bouncy castles and face painting are sure to please and all come free with your ticket. Book yourselves a Family Viewing Box to make a special day of it, and to get the best view.

Earlier in the month, there’s also the Green Gathering Festival (Thu 1 – Sun 4 Aug), a 100% renewable energypowered festival full of music and magic.

Tickets: £15 (adult) / U18s free (Family Raceday) / £120 weekend ticket (Green Gathering) Info: 01291 622260 www.chepstow-racecourse.co.uk Big Family Raceday

PRINCE AND PRINCESSES DAY Oystermouth Castle, Mon 26 Aug Little ones can dress up as their favourite character and feel like a real prince or princess at Swansea’s Oystermouth Castle on this family fun day. With live-read fairytales, upbeat music, face painting, and crafty activities – including the opportunity to make a medieval crown or princess tiara – there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained.

Admission: free Info: enjoyswanseabay.com

MUSEUM SLEEPOVER: DINO NIGHTS National Museum Cardiff, Sat 21 + Sun 22 Sept Post summer holidays. this magical sleepover in Cardiff’s natural history museum is the ideal treat for any dinosaur-obsessed child. Starting off with a torchlit tour of the museum to take you back in time 200 million years, the night also includes arts and craft workshops, while before camping out under the dome, you’ll be offered snacks and a hot chocolate to snuggle up with while watching a film.

Tickets: £48 Info: museumwales.ac.uk/cardiff

Info: www.cardiffcastle.com

BUZZ 19

summer days

FESTIVALS continued SWANSEA BEER & CIDER FESTIVAL Brangwyn Hall, Swansea, Thurs 22-Sat 24 Aug For their 33rd annual festival, the Swansea branch of the Campaign For Real Ale are sourcing more than 100 real ales, ciders, and perries. With dozens of new microbreweries having recently launched in south Wales, the brewing scene has been transformed over the past few years. A range of hot food and live bands will also feature, setting the mood while you quench your thirst for new and original beers.

Tickets: £3 members/£5 non-members Info: swanseacamra.org.uk

THE BIG CWTCH Crugybar, Carmarthenshire, Fri 30 + Sat 31 Aug Set in a private estate, with its own mini lake, that also plays host to paddleboarding and fireworks on the last day, this feelgood fest supports the Ski4all charity and local community projects with a percentage of ticket sales going to the charities. Big Cwtch gives centre stage to breakthrough Welsh artists and performers, including Carmarthen’s own postpunkers Adwaith and Ogmore-By-Sea’s Dan Bettridge.

Located in the heart of the Cothi Valley in Carmarthenshire, The Big Cwtch will also put up an impressive offering of street food traders such as The Bearded Taco, Duttys Cheesecake Van and Sloppy Joe’s Street Food. Adults can head straight for the niche house bars – try the Wonky Table for local ales and the Box Of Frogs for gin and cocktails – while the kids are busy doing creative activities and workshops.

If you feel the need for relaxation, massage, yoga and pilates are also on offer for worn-out parents.

Tickets: £40-£60 Info: www.thebigcwtch.com

BETWEEN THE TREES Candleston Campsite, Merthyr Mawr, Fri 30 Aug-Sun 1 Sept This unique annual festival, now in its second year, combines music with natural science, bringing with it some of the best alternative folk music in south Wales and beyond. The organisers have worked hard to provide an experience for families that focuses on the world we live in and science and nature. Set in beautiful countryside right next to the coast, taking place in the middle of a wood near sand dunes, Between The Trees supports local independent businesses and encourages respect for wildlife. Notable names this year include Bristol-based Norwegian/Welsh duo Firewoodisland, indie-folk band Ofelia, and Cardiff-based folkster Aled Rheon.

Tickets: £70 weekend (£30 under-18s); £20 Fri (£5 under-18s); £30 Sat (£10 under-18s); £20 Sun (£5 under-18s); £5 weekend/£1 per day under-5s Info: www.betweenthetrees.co.uk BUZZ 20

The Big Cwtch

THE GOOD LIFE EXPERIENCE Hawarden Estate, Flintshire, Thurs 12-Sun 14 Sept If you thought that a meeting place filled with books, music, food, ideas, workshops and the great outdoors was mythical, The Good Life Experience invites you to Hawarden. Co-founder Cerys Matthews delights in offering four days featuring everything from dough kneading to lake diving to midnight dancing. Perhaps as a thank-you for their contribution to the Good Life, the festival throws open its doors to dogs as well, whether it’s to simply walk around and take in the atmosphere, or to participate in Britain’s first dog diving competition.

Tickets: £74-£209 per weekend; free under-12s.

Info: www.thegoodlifeexperience.co.uk

NARBERTH FOOD FESTIVAL Narberth Town Moor, Sat 28 + Sun 29 Sept Celebrating its 21st year, the long-established food lovers’ event is returning this September with entertainment, guest chefs, masterclasses, and children’s activities. Featuring over 50 stalls of local offerings from Pembrokeshire and Welsh food producers and ranked as one of the friendliest festivals in Wales, the two-day event attracts thousands of hungry visitors. A full-boarded marquee with catering stalls, music stage, and licensed bar sees old favourite producers mix with exciting newcomers, some of whom have been given bursaries by the festival committee to make their debut at the festival.

Tickets: £5-£7 Info: narberthfoodfestival.com

Between the trees

30 T H A N D 31 S T AUGUS T 2019 CRUGYBAR , CARMARTHENSHIRE

FESTIVAL - GŵYL

MAGICAL LAKESIDE FESTIVAL OF MUSIC, FOOD OUTDOOR ADVENTURES AND FESTIVAL FUN R a i s i n g f u n d s f o r s k i 4 a l l wa l e s and other local communit y projects

THEBIGCWTCH .com

www.

BOOKING HOTLINE - 01267 600 650

summer days

Cardiff Castle Bohemian Rhapsody

OUTDOOR CINEMAS Hot days give way to warm nights – there are few greater pleasures than relaxing with one of your favourite films, but its even more beautiful when its outdoors.

THE GREATEST SHOWMAN (TUE 13 AUG) MARY POPPINS RETURNS (WED 14 AUG) Margam Country Park, Neath Margam’s country park estate sets the scene for an open-air screening of box office sensation The Greatest Showman, a musical inspired by P.T. Barnum’s journey to stardom. If Hugh Jackman isn’t your cup of tea, opt for Emily Blunt’s debut as everyone’s favourite flying nanny in Mary Poppins Returns.

Tickets: from £10 Info: www.adventurecinema.co.uk

JURASSIC PARK (WED 14 AUG) Pembroke Castle Hold onto your butts – Steven Spielberg’s dino-tastic blockbuster is coming to Pembroke Castle for a special sunset screening. Watch Jeff Goldblum and Sam Neill’s visit to an island theme park go terribly wrong when a few ferocious predators break loose.

Tickets: from £11 Info: www.torchtheatre.co.uk

GREASE (WED 21 AUG) BEAUTY AND THE BEAST (THURS 22 AUG) Bishops Palace, St Davids St Davids’ medieval cathedral ruins play host to a sunset viewing of two musical classics. Throw on an old leather jacket, grease up that hair and belt out some Greased Lightning, or grab a yellow ball gown if you have one and waltz along to Tale As Old As Time.

Tickets: from £11 Info: www.torchtheatre.co.uk

SISTER ACT (SUN 25 AUG) Pembrokeshire Wake Park, Narberth Normally a venue reserved for entertainment of the aqua variety, Pembrokeshire Wake Park is going gospel this summer holiday with an open-air ode to Whoopi Goldberg’s lounge singer turned soulful sister in 90s classic Sister Act. Tickets: from £11 Info: www.torchtheatre.co.uk

BUZZ 22

A STAR IS BORN (WED 1 SEPT) Oystermouth Castle, Mumbles, Swansea Located at the top of Mumbles Hill with views overlooking Swansea Bay, another chance to see Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga’s remake of classic A Star Is Born story in the majestic setting of Oystermouth Castle.

Tickets: £15 Info: www.thelunacinema.com/oystermouth-castle-swansea

BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY (FRI 13 SEPT) MAMMA MIA! HERE WE GO AGAIN (SAT 14 SEPT) MONTY PYTHON’S LIFE OF BRIAN (SUN 15 SEPT) Cardiff Castle Three evenings of cinema in the grounds of the historic Cardiff Castle. Catch Rami Malek’s Academy Award-winning performance in the Queen biopic, embrace the cheese and sing along to a feelgood Abba musical or sign up to a masterclass in Monty Python’s comedy cult classic.

Tickets: £15.50 Info: www.thelunacinema.com/cardiff-castle

BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY (SAT 24 SEPT) THE GREATEST SHOWMAN (SUN 25 SEPT) Barry Island The Vale Of Glamorgan is treating locals to two free showings this summer at Barry Island beach. Rock out to Queen’s greatest hits in the award-winning Bohemian Rhapsody or sing along with Hugh Jackman and co in fan favourite The Greatest Showman.

Tickets: free Info: www.visitthevale.com

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SKUNK ANANSIE Chris Andrews chews the fat with Skin, frontwoman of British rock favourites Skunk Anansie, and finds their stance to be more necessary than ever in 2019.

These are turbulent times we find ourselves in and right now the world needs anyone with a platform to step up and make themselves heard. This is exactly why Skunk Anansie have been a vital presence since emerging 25 years ago. “I do think that right now, it’s time for every artist to get off the fence,” says Skin, the owner of the voice that has made Skunk Anansie stand apart from the rest. “What is happening now has happened countless times before and it always ends in mass death. So I do think that if you are an artist or politician that has a view, you need to express it, just to make people aware that we are entering a very dangerous time.”

When we speak, we are still within 48 hours of Donald Trump’s “go home” tweets, something that has not gone unnoticed by the singer. How can an American President say that? He said that to people born in America. What he means is black Americans or people of colour. It’s the most obviously racist thing he has said and it’s being tolerated. These types of things are happening so often now, it’s becoming “the norm” and that scares me.”

In an effort to make sure they stay heard, the band have just released their new single What You Do For Love and it’s unmistakably Skunk Anansie to these ears – something that Skin is surprised to hear. “To us it kind of feels like a different sound! We’ve never really worried about the Skunk Anansie ‘sound’, we just write songs, but I think it’s important for a band to have something that people will recognise. Oasis have their sound, Smashing Pumpkins have their sound, but really it’s something that just comes out of you.”

Undoubtedly, part of that sound is the vocal talent of Skin herself, who is quite often described as one of Britain’s most underrated vocalists. Why is that? “I’m not quite sure. I don’t feel that I’m one of the best singers, I feel like I’m one of the best performers though!” she laughs. “But to be honest I feel like the whole band is underrated – in terms of what we’ve achieved and how big the band is, but how BUZZ 24

little we are talked about in the British press. It’s like they’ve all signed a contract not to talk about Skunk Anansie.”

Let’s not forget what makes up the rest of the band and talk about the other guys for a minute. “There’s Mark on drums who’s into the Whitesnake, Bon Jovi kind of thing, but also loves Abba; Ace who into Hendrix, Zeppelin and Motörhead; and Cass who’s into Parliament and very bluesy, soulful stuff – and when you mix all this up, that’s when you get Skunk Anansie.” It’s that mix of influences that has enabled the band to tour with an eclectic mix of bands over the years including Slipknot, Lenny Kravitz and Massive Attack.

“It’s because we have all those elements in there. When we play with Slipknot, we can be heavy metal. We have heavy songs, with screaming vocals, so we can do that and not do the softer stuff.”

Skunk Anansie found themselves in the news recently, after Stormzy’s headline appearance at this year’s Glastonbury festival, where he declared himself the first black artist to headline the festival. Skunk Anansie having in fact headlined in 1999, I wasn’t about to pass up this opportunity to get Skin’s thoughts on Stormzy’s comments.

“My first reaction was ‘not again!’ because Beyoncé said she was the first black woman to headline it too. He probably didn’t check it out himself, and was probably just told that, so he made a comment on it. It’s just people not doing their research.

Maxim from The Prodigy also did it in 1997, but the point is that it’s taken 20 years for somebody else to be able to say that – and in 2019, that is the real question.”

Great Hall, Cardiff University Students Union, Wed 4 Sept.

Tickets: £27.50. Info: 029 2078 1458 / www.cardiffstudents.com

ANNIE

Pic: Paul Coltas

Head down to Easy Street and get your tickets to see Annie at the WMC this month. This particular production recently ran for an extended season in the West End, following a sell-out tour of the UK and Ireland in 2015-16.

Craig Revel Horwood, best known as a judge on Strictly Come Dancing, returns to the part of Miss Hannigan, having played it in the West End and on tour. He’s joined by Alex Bourne as Oliver Warbucks, Richard Meek as Rooster, Jenny Gayner as Lily and Carolyn Maitland as Grace Farrell. The titular role is shared by Faye Katsande, Ava Smith and Freya Yates.

Bourne, too, reprises his performance as Warbucks after playing the role in this production of Annie in the West End, Toronto and on the 2015/16 tour, hopefully bringing the charm and assurance he’s known for; his credits include Danny in Grease, the Beast in Beauty And The Beast, and Fred/Petruchio in Kiss Me, Kate for which he received an Olivier Award nomination. Maitland (Ellen in Miss Saigon, plus appearances in Groundhog Day and Kiss Me, Kate) reprises her performance as Grace Farrell after playing the role in this production of Annie in Toronto.

Set in 1930s New York during the Great Depression, brave young Annie is forced to live a life of misery and torment at Miss Hannigan’s orphanage. Determined to find her real parents, her luck changes when she is chosen to spend Christmas at the residence of famous billionaire Oliver Warbucks. Spiteful Miss Hannigan has other ideas, and hatches a plan to spoil Annie’s search.

With its award-winning book and score, this new production includes the unforgettable songs It’s The Hard Knock Life, Easy Street, NYC and Tomorrow.

The original music and lyrics from the 1977 incarnation by Charles Strouse and Martin Charnin respectively is still in place, but this rendition is directed by Nikolai Foster, who has a successful track record in musical theatre – to the point where critics have even attacked him for doing too many. But hey, there’s a reason the audiences keep coming. SARAH BOWDIDGE

PRIDE 20TH ANNIVERSARY Pride Cymru is celebrating its 20th birthday this month. As we head into festivities, partying and a weekend of some sickening queer representation, its perhaps also time to look back on its origins.

“Pride Cymru has changed massively. It’s gone from a one-day knees-up in a park to a three-day queer festival,” says Lisa Power, co-founder of Stonewall UK. “When I moved from Cardiff to London in 2007, there were no out politicians. Now, in 2019 we have out and proud LGBT+ politicians in the Senedd.”

The acceptance of queer culture hasn’t always been the celebration we know today. The annual parade actually dates back to 1975, but – in Power’s words – “faded away in the general hostile environment of Section 28 and AIDS-phobia of the late 80s” and was only revived in 2015.

From the first brick thrown by trans women of colour in the Stonewall riots nearly 50 years ago, a lot has changed for LGBT+ people across the globe. “When we founded the Stonewall group in the UK after the Thatcher government passed the first explicitly anti-gay legislation here for 100 years, we deliberately chose that name to remember how the modern fight was born,” Power explains.

Two decades of Pride all started in Bute Park. Now, crowds of fabulous attendees surpass the 50,000 mark. “We had about 2,000 people turn up at the Circle Of Stones in Bute Park,” says Robert Keetch – who, along with legendary drag queen Miss Kitty, was one of the organisers of the first Cardiff Pride, showcasing local acts as well as Tina Cousins and Steve Houghton. “Miss Kitty and I even performed. We weren’t originally there to perform but there was time to fill, so we did!”

Pride Cymru this year will see headline acts and regional talent gracing the cabaret stage, with all assured for a day filled with love, rainbows sequins and glitter! “Kitty and I will be doing our original routine too. Hopefully to more than 2,000 people this time!” Keetch says. With Gok Wan, Texas and a few surprises in store, it’s looking to be a fab weekend. JOE ALI City Hall Lawns, Cardiff, Fri 23-Sun 25 Aug. Tickets: from £7.50.

Info: pridecymru.co.uk BUZZ 26

Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay, Mon 19-Fri 31 Aug. Tickets: from £19. Info: 029 2063 6464 / www.wmc.org.uk

Carmen Bizet Rigoletto Verdi The Cunning Little Vixen Janáček Medi 21 September – Hydref 12 October Archebwch nawr ar yganolfan.org.uk Book now at wmc.org.uk wno.org.uk/autumn19 Rhif Elusen Gofrestredig | Registered Charity No 221538

FEEDER With their 10th album, Tallulah, out in August, Newport rock favourites Feeder are touring to promote it shortly after and will be appearing in November at Cardiff Great Hall. Formed in Newport in 1994 by Grant Nicholas and drummer Jon Lee, who died in 2001, the pair advertised for a bass player in Loot, Taka Hirose becoming that guy.

Twenty-five years on, Hirose recalls one of the first things he loved about both Grant and Jon. “Their sense of humour was quite different to what I had, having come from Japan!” he laughs. “One thing we all had in common was that we all had the same music tastes, we all listened to the same music. That helped.”

Feeder are looking forward to playing again in Wales due to the warmth of the crowd – and, with their last date in these parts at Chepstow Racecourse, playing the more intimate Great Hall. “You are much more connected to the people in a venue like that,” says Nicholas, “and when we’re trying out new music for the first time, and still get some crowdsurfing going on, it’s proper old school!”

It’s sometimes suggested that people know a Feeder song before they know it as a Feeder song – a suggestion Grant likes, as it indicates the band have enjoyed some non-media-generated, below-the-radar success. “With people not knowing that we had actually done those songs, it’s quite bizarre, and in some ways I quite like it – it’s given the band an interesting fanbase.” So more casual Feeder gig attendees, upon realising the breadth of their catalogue, then go and buy the older records, and vice versa.

As Tallulah demonstrates, the band are still enthusiastically making records, with the title track of the same name being the favourite of both Taka and Grant.

Feeder continue picking up new fans all the time; that back catalogue still has many sets of new ears awaiting. Rest assured that it’s not all about that one song called Buck Rogers. CARL MARSH Great Hall, Cardiff University Students Union, Thurs 7 Nov. Tickets: £25. Info: 029 2078 1458 / www.cardiffstudents.com Tallulah is released on Fri 9 Aug. Info: feederweb.com

OCEAN COLOUR SCENE This month’s return of Ponty’s Big Weekend heralds a more rock-centric lineup than its previous incarnation. Some choice Welsh acts are appearing this year, such as Buzzard Buzzard Buzzard and Goldie Lookin Chain in their GLC Legends guise, but Birmingham stalwarts Ocean Colour Scene top the bill.

Thirty years old this year, OCS took until the mid-90s to properly bother the charts, thanks to the patronage of Chris Evans and Noel Gallagher among others.

Indeed, lead singer Simon Fowler tells me that he still has the plaque Noel sent him in 1997 when OCS knocked Oasis’ Be Here Now off the top spot with their third album Marchin’ Already. “It says something like, ‘congratulations to the second-best band in the world for going to number one’!”

Many of their songs from that Britpop heyday have endured, including The Day We Caught The Train, Evans-picked TFI Friday theme The Riverboat Song and Hundred Mile High City. Will the setlist at Ponty’s Big Weekend be a mixture of the tracks we all expect to hear and some from the self-titled EP released in 2018?

“I think we will play the hits this time around, the ones that people know,” says BUZZ 28

Fowler. “I don’t know how long we are playing for, but I am trying to write at the moment as we have not released anything for Christ knows how long – apart from that EP – so we need to be thinking about doing that next year.”

Latterly, Ocean Colour Scene have operated as a seven-piece band, but Fowler says they’ll be going back to a quartet. “Well, just a four-piece electric guitar band – it will be like a loud Beatles, so that’s the plan, as I wrote out the setlist the other day and just knobbed off the piano.”

And how does it sound, then?

“Well, we haven’t rehearsed yet! And we will rehearse the day before we start the tour because Steve [Cradock, guitarist] is either out touring with Paul Weller or The Specials at the minute. But it’s a bit like riding a bike. We’ll be fine.” CARL MARSH Ponty’s Big Weekend, Ynysangharad Park, Pontypridd, Sat 17 Aug. Tickets: £45. Info: orchardlive.com

Sound Progression Creating inspiring opportunities for young people to make music

Come and join our Youth Music Academy this August

Gwrando’r Gwreiddiau

Sioeau Gwych, Seiniau Byd-enwog ac Awyrgylch Braf

We will be nurturing a diverse range from bands, singers, songwriters and rappers to music producers and engineers.

Up to 12 new and developing acts, will be put through their paces by our stellar team to be showcased at Pride’s Big Weekend on Sunday 25th August Alongside local artists: Black Elvis, Y Sybs and Tiger Bay, Lily Beau and Sorley Rome, Darnell Williams, Gerald KuzKuz & Jordan Ero and newcomers Caitlin Mae and Jack Raymond Garrett.

MARTIN SIMPSON

Nos Fawrth 10 Medi 2019 Tuesday 10 September 8pm

JACKIE OATES

Nos Fawrth 19 Tachwedd 2019 Tuesday 19 November 8pm

MARTYN JOSEPH

Nos Fawrth 28 Ionawr 2020 Tuesday 28 January 7:30pm (Awditoriwm / Auditorium)

Places are available for young people interested in media and stage management to join the acts at an intensive week at East Moors Youth Centre, Splott between 19-24 August.”

For updates and how to get involved: soundprogressionmusic.com soundprogression / SoundProgressi1

Roots Unearthed Great Acts, Global Sounds & Relaxing Atmosphere

GREEN MAN The big daddy of the Welsh festival season is upon us once more. Unsurprisingly, tickets have sold out, as they often do, but if you’re looking to make sense of the gargantuanly stacked lineup without the aid of quantum physics, then we have a helping hand for you. The first night of the festival, on Thurs 15, won’t go overboard, but will feature Amadou & Miriam, Pictish Trail and These New Puritans to kick things off. The first of those, especially, will bring their effortlessly sunny and elegant Afro-pop stylings; the Malian duo’s live shows are never less than a party.

Fri 16 swings into gear proper with a set from evergreen New Jersey psych-heads Yo La Tengo, one of the most persistently imaginative US bands of the last three decades, whilst further down the bill at the Far Out stage you’ll find Gwenno extolling the virtues of cultural ambassadorship for Celtic nations. Meanwhile, the Moviedrome tent is screening the 1922 version of Nosferatu and the Last Laugh comedy stage, showcases Welsh talent like Kiri Pritchard-Mclean and Lloyd Langford throughout the weekend.

On Sat 17, Four Tet’s head-expanding rhythms follow the reformed Stereolab on the mainstage, though Stella Donnelly a little bit further down the track will also hold you in good stead. The Far Out tent also sees Richard Thompson, long one of the UK’s best songwriters and guitarists, take centre stage. Whilst Thompson’s music isn’t exactly known for being cheery, you can always get even more downbeat by catching the Scots duo Aidan Moffat & RM Hubbert, whose stories of depression and broken hearts will cheer up even the most miserly grump.

Sun 18 pops off with a trio of American songwriters, each unique in their own way – the rambling hipster king Father John Misty, the melodic smarts of Eels, and the heart-on-sleeve Americana of Sharon Von Etten. Idles headline the Far Out stage that same night, and their thunderous live reputation is sure to finish things off on a high. Just don’t let them see your Sleaford Mods t-shirt. FEDOR TOT

ANGUS MUNRO Scottish-based singer-songwriter Angus Munro will be performing his finely crafted piano-led pop songs at Acapela in Cardiff this November. His debut, a deluxe vinyl EP Mirror Man, was released back in May, launched by a performance on BBC Radio 4’s Loose Ends in which he made an Avenger cry – fellow guest Haley Atwell.

Angus, who has a five-octave range that puts him in league with Mariah Carey, has played to packed houses across the many cultural hubs of antifolk; from Germany, Austria, New York and LA. He has also toured and appeared on stage alongside a wide range of artists, from Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox and Charlie Barnes (Bastille), to Scouting For Girls, The Hoosiers and Snarky Puppy.

At the age of three, Angus had developed glue ear which caused deafness and impacted his development. He says he lost his ability to walk, talk and communicate with those around him, putting him back by about two years, at which point he was diagnosed with dyspraxia. He recalls being an isolated child, but this was also a period which informed his performing skills. He discovered two passions: puppets and cartoons. He would stage shows for his sisters and friends and would affect very high voices for his characters.

By the age of 24, Angus was a student in Scotland and faced numerous personal challenges which included the loss of his ‘best friend’: his father, who committed suicide. After being diagnosed with depression, Angus found an outlet through writing songs at the piano and singing.

Open mic nights, standup evenings and workshops provided a means through which he could understand his experiences. “Over the years, I learned that the person I would affect onstage was my real self and I became more confident in not only who I was but talking about mental health as a whole,” he says.

As Angus becomes more recognised his fans liken him to The Divine Comedy, Ron Sexsmith and Rufus Wainwright. This makes him ecstatic as it is the fans who understand him and his music and support him.

Acapela, Cardiff, Sun 10 Nov. Tickets: £13.50 Info: 029 2089 0862 / www.acapela.co.uk / www.angusmunromusic.com BUZZ 30

Pic: Edward Taylor - TEB

Glanusk Park Estate, Brecon Beacons, Thurs 15-Sun 18 Aug. Tickets: £21-£189 (sold out, check for returns): Info: www.thegreenmanfestival.co.uk

FRIDAY JUNE 21

SATURDAY AUGUST 3

DOORS 7PM | TICKETS £3

DOORS 7PM | TICKETS £3

SATURDAY JUNE 22

FRIDAY AUGUST 9

DOORS 7PM | TICKETS £3

DOORS 7PM | TICKETS £3

FRIDAY JULY 5

SATURDAY AUGUST 10

DOORS 7PM | TICKETS £3

DOORS 7PM | TICKETS TBA

SATURDAY JULY 6

FRIDAY AUGUST 16

STRING THEORY

THE GOVERNMENT

WINE MORALS

THE STRAY PURSUIT & THE LUKA STATE

WINDSHAKE

FAR FROM ANIMALS

STATE OF DECEIT

TAXI RANK

DOORS 7PM | TICKETS £3

DOORS 7PM | TICKETS £5

FRIDAY JULY 19

FRIDAY AUGUST 23

NEWS FROM NOWHERE

HEAVY ON THE RIDE & PETER GREENE

DOORS 7PM | TICKETS £3

DOORS 7PM | TICKETS £3

SATURDAY JULY 20

FRIDAY SEPT 6

HARMONIES OF THE REVISED

MOTEL THIEVES DOORS 7PM | TICKETS £3

DOORS 7PM | TICKETS TBA

FRIDAY JULY 26

VANILLA

DOORS 7PM | TICKETS £4

FRIDAY AUGUST 2

INSCAPE

DOORS 7PM | TICKETS £3

SATURDAY SEPT 7

WHITE RIOT

DOORS 7PM | TICKETS £4

Pic: Ian Scott

profile

EXTINCTION REBELLION When Extinction Rebellion took over the centre of Cardiff, demanding immediate action over impending climate breakdown, Isabel Thomas and Felix Jones were front and centre to witness delighted protestors and frustrated commuters.

For three days in the midst of glorious July sunshine, environmental protesters from Cardiff, elsewhere in Wales and further afield were joined by passers-by to express their impatience with the government’s inaction on climate change. For the majority of the public, Extinction Rebellion’s protests in Cardiff in July appeared out of nowhere. With only a few weeks to pull together this Summer Uprising, organisers cleared the city centre of traffic from Monday morning until Wednesday evening, alongside a busy programme of activities. Informative workshops for new members and talks on difficult debates in the climate change movement were interspersed with music and poetry, while volunteers provided freshly cooked meals.

Despite the festival atmosphere, Extinction Rebellion protests across the country nonetheless convey the gravity of their message. The language used in the literature and banners is hard, communicating the “sleepwalking” nature of current inaction on climate change and the deaths it has already caused in different parts of the globe. Extinction Rebellion faces a challenge in trying to convey such a frightening message to the public. Alarming statistics, such as the UN studies pointing towards a 12-year window or smaller for massive change in fossil-fuel reliance, weigh heavily on the spirit of the current consumer.

XR members themselves are not unaware of the scale of the challenge, citing scientists who believe that it may be too late to prevent BUZZ 32

climate catastrophe. One speaker on the Tuesday afternoon compared the movement to the extreme circumstances of World War II, in which people pulled together to tackle an existential threat. A far cry from the legitimate concerns over a future of restrictive environmental legislation that harms the average citizen, Cardiff’s Extinction Rebellion activists talk about tackling climate change in a way that transforms society beneficially.

We spoke to Louis, a Cardiff University graduate who joined the Cardiff branch after seeing the protests in London in April. He emphasised the need for a “connection between investing in public services – helping ordinary working people - and making it clear that that’s also good for the environment.” Regarding the spread of the movement to the US, alongside the Green New Deal and fossil fuel divestment, he hopes that “if the US and UK get behind these kinds of policies, China and India will follow along.”

Inevitably, online discussion from frustrated commuters during the Summer Uprising highlighted the inconvenience they experienced as well as the cost to the taxpayer for the police presence, with some pointing out that it might turn people against the cause. In response, Extinction Rebellion Cymru released a statement on the third day apologising for the disruption but describing it as necessary given the potentially larger inconvenience/destruction of climate disaster.

Others, such as Conservative councillor Jayne Cowan, expressed their concern over the financial

impact of the protests on businesses, while some businesses, such as the Castle Emporium on Womanby Street, offered support for the protest via social media.

Following the protests, a majority now support banning private cars from the city centre, according to a Nation Cymru article. Despite controversy, the protests attracted more ‘rebels’ to the cause, with many workshop attendees having just decided to join the movement that day. With a ‘pop-up protest’ and party planned in Swansea for Sat 3 Aug and a ‘Rebel Rising’ festival to train new protesters alongside a weekend of entertainment from Fri 13-Sun 15 Sept, Extinction Rebellion’s voice evidently is a growing one, ready to take onboard anyone willing to open their ears and make a contribution.

With a decentralised structure, intended to avoid hierarchy, the group believe in tackling the ecological crisis collectively rather than placing the blame on any particular person or people.

Welsh members of the movement have already started conversations with assembly ministers and carried out a trial ‘citizen’s assembly’ at the Senedd to discuss policy in Wales. In a time of polarised opinion and bombardment of information it seems impossible to make any one voice heard, yet Extinction Rebellion’s informed optimism despite the size of the task makes one feel it may be possible.

Info: www.rebellion.earth

by Keiron Self

BLINDED BY THE LIGHT ****

Dir: Gurinder Chadha (12A, 117 mins) An uplifting coming of age tale, told via the music of Bruce Springsteen, Blinded

By The Light is a definite crowdpleaser. Inspired by journalist Sarfraz Manzoor’s memoir about growing up in the 80s, this is also a triumphant return for Bend It Like Beckham director Chadha. Viveik Kalra plays Javed, a British teenager of Pakistani descent lives a fairly drab existence in 1987’s Luton, fending off his dad’s draconic ways, stopping his kids from getting involved in decadent British culture. When he discovers the music of Bruce Springsteen, Javed’s life transforms, the plain-speaking American songsmith addressing him directly. When he listens to Springsteen he can ask major crush Eliza (Nell Williams) out, quoting the lyrics to Prove It All Night.

Javed is a poet but fears writing, criticizing his efforts as his dad would, thinking it’s pointless. Springsteen’s music gives him a lift, however, enabling him to believe that he can be a writer, that he has something to say in Thatcher’s Britain and that he can make more of his life. It’s a great heartwarming tale with a fantastic central performance, gleefully directed by Chadha, packed with faith, passion and a lack of irony and will have you fist-pumping the air for joy. Opens Aug 9

ANGEL HAS FALLEN **

Dir: Ric Roman Waugh (15, 120 mins) Amazingly, after Olympus and London Has Fallen there is still a need to make another film with Gerard Butler’s stabby President-protector Mike Banning. The previous films were sub-Die Hard actioners filled with gung-ho imperialism, dodgy quips and Butler’s weirdly unengaging fisticuffs, and now there’s another one.

This time, however, it is the President’s bodyguard who has to go on the run, framed following a failed drone assassination attempt on Morgan Freeman’s White House dweller. Now he has to evade the FBI, CIA, save his wife Piper Perabo and his family and uncover the real culprits. Jada Pinkett Smith and Danny Huston give chase and Butler enlists the help of his dad, a very grizzled Nick Nolte. With the feel of a 90s straight-to-DVD Steven Seagal movie, if you liked the last two and their brand of B-movie action antics, this will please, but this franchise definitely needs to fall. Opens Aug 21

ANIMALS ****

GOOD BOYS **

Dir: Gene Stupnitsky (15, 89 mins) If you like 12-year-olds swearing you will love this, as that’s mostly what happens.

A slick if crass tween version of Superbad, this has three 12-year-old boys, Max, Thor and Lucas (played by Jacob Tremblay, Brady Noon and Keith L Williams), invited to a cool house party. Girls are obviously going to be there and they are in a tizz, having just discovered masturbation. Having no idea how to even kiss, they decide to watch some porn and, disgusted, they instead use Max’s dad’s drone to spy on their ‘nymphomaniac’ teenage next door neighbours. It’s 12-year-old logic.

Max has a crush on a girl who will also be at the party and doesn’t want to look a fool. The drone is discovered by the girls, whilst the boys end up with their ecstasy supply. Now the boys have to find a way to get the drone back. Along the way they discover dildos and sex swings but they know not what they are. They also break their arms, steal beer and run across busy highways... basically stuff you’ve seen before, just not with foul mouthed 12-year-olds. Somewhat lazy and with some unearned sentiment, Good Boys is unsurprisingly more like Not Very Good Boys really. Opens Aug 16

Dir: Sophie Hyde (15, 106 mins) A wild friendship between two women is put to the test in this comedy drama with a stellar turn from Holliday Grainger. It’s based on Emma Jane Unsworth’s book, here transplanted from Manchester to Dublin. Grainger plays Laura, a would-be writer struggling to achieve her dreams, distracted by best friend Tyler, played by Alia Shawkat. They’ve been best friends for a decade and have spent that time in a whirl of sex, drugs and hedonism. When the spectre of romance rears its head with piano player Fra Fee, their relationship starts to change. What is admirable about the film is that it offers no lazy admonishment or finger-wagging; these are real characters with believable messiness.

Grainger anchors her character’s subtle changes with alacrity and nuance as well as being very funny.

She and Shawkat make a great team, showing the darker shades of friendship amidst the fun and the compromises. Opens Aug 2

BALANCE NOT SYMMETERY ***

Dir: Jamie Adams (15, 97 mins) Porthcawl director Jamie Adams goes to Scotland in another of his improvised films, this time with Biffy Clyro providing the soundtrack and lead singer Simon Neil story input. It follows Laura Harrier (Spiderman: Homecoming), a Glasgow School Of Art student, grieving for her father following his sudden death. She now has to channel that grief into something creative, with the help of wayward best friend Hannah, played

by The Florida Project’s Bria Vinaite. Kate Dickie provides customary gravitas as Harrier’s grieving mother and the music from Biffy Clyro propels the character study along. Great emotional upheavals and difficulties can always bring out the most creativity in an artist, with writer/director Adams creating this film as he dealt with his own father’s death. A step up for the Welsh writer/director, a bigger budget and a different country to be photographed with aplomb by frequent collaborator Ryan Eddleston. Opens Aug 2

ALSO RELEASED AUGUST 2019: ANGRY BIRDS 2 (PG) I’m quite cross about this. Does anyone play Angry Birds anymore? PLAYMOBIL (PG) The Lego Movie with bigger bits. THE ART OF RACING IN THE RAIN (PG) A bizarre tale of a dog called Enzo relating the life lessons learned from his racing car owner. Kevin Costner is the voice of the dog. THE SUN IS ALSO A STAR (12A) Romantic drama based on the novel, as a die-hard romantic falls for a hard-nosed unbeliever in love. DORA AND THE LOST CITY OF GOLD (PG) Dora The Explorer goes live action. Swiper no swiping! JT LEROY (15) Kristen Stewart and Laura Dern star in this true-life tale of a woman who pretended to be a made-up literary persona for her author sister-in-law. UGLY DOLLS (PG) CGI family animation with some ugly dolls learning life lessons and all that.

BUZZ 34

FAST AND FURIOUS PRESENTS: HOBBS AND SHAW ****

Dir: David Leitch (12A, 120 mins) The Fast And Furious franchise gets an action-packed, ludicrous spinoff filled with bonkers setpieces, tongues firmly in bloodied cheeks and two bald men hitting lots of people. Dwayne Johnson and Jason Statham created such chemistry together on the last Fast And Furious film – the former a lawman, the latter a criminal – that their headbutting banter has been upscaled, with bludgeoning espionage introduced.

Silly espionage, obviously, as Statham and Johnson battle against terrorist and ‘Black Superman’ Brixton – played by Idris Elba, a cyber-genetically enhanced villain trying to get hold of a horrific virus. Statham’s sister, Hattie (played with ass-kicking commitment by The Crown’s Vanessa Kirby), is MI6 and on Elba’s trail.

She needs Staham’s and Johnson’s help. Also aiding and abetting is Helen Mirren as their mum and a Q-esque Eiza Gonzalez as Madam M who can obtain anything weapon-y. Mostly set in London but with a climax in Samoa where Johnson can draw on his heritage, this has as much if not more insane CGI-enhanced stuntwork under the eye of former stuntman and action director David Leitch (John Wick, Atomic Blonde). Carnage, explosions, dumb dialogue and two stars who are able to make fun of the film and themselves, this is a guilty pleasure of a blockbuster. Opens Aug 1

CRAWL ***

Dir: Alexandre Aja (15, 105 mins) An unashamed B-movie that bastardises Jaws and Lake Placid and countless other monster movies, then throws a hurricane into the midst. Kaya Scodelerio plays Haley Keller, a daughter looking for her dad (Barry Pepper) to try and escape the clutches of a category five hurricane about to hit Florida. As the water rises, she and her father are joined in their flooding home by some alligators and a game of reptile and mouse ensues, as she tries to get her injured father to safety. Director Aja has history with waterbound beasts with his risible Piranha remake; here, the alligators are CGI but Scodelario’s grit is human and director Aja is not going for laughs, more an effective thrill ride, similar to the effective shark bait film The Shallows with Blake Lively. The alligators are no longer in the swamps but in the house, chomping at any potential meal. It’s a simple premise, well executed and better than last year’s The Meg. Opens Aug 23

PAIN AND GLORY ****

ONCE UPON A TIME IN HOLLYWOOD ****

Dir: Quentin Tarantino (15, 159mins) A dazzling black-comedy thriller collage that manages to recreate a meta-fictional version of 1969 Hollywood, folding in the horror of the Manson murders alongside the story of an actor and his stunt double on their uppers. Tarantino’s “ninth” film (he’s actually directed 10, but is too childish to admit Death Proof counts as a film) is one to savour for its chutzpah: Leonardo DiCaprio stars as washed-up film actor Rick Dalton, with Brad Pitt’s Cliff Booth his laidback but deadly stuntman with a grisly secret in his past. DiCaprio’s own TV series has been cancelled and he’s left playing a baddie in another upcoming star’s cowboy vehicle. He finds solace in knowing that his next door neighbours are Roman Polanski (Rafal Zawierucha) and Sharon Tate (an engaging Margot Robbie), people he admires. Pitt ends up giving a hitchhiking girl a lift to Spahn Ranch, the headquarters of the Manson family who are about to do horrific things to DiCaprio’s neighbours. Always audacious, often very funny and with a brilliant soundtrack, the film is studded with glorious moments. Pitt has a showdown with Bruce Lee, DiCaprio hilariously confides in a sassy eight-year-old child star (Julia Butters) and Al Pacino chews the scenery as DiCaprio’s agent advising him to get into spaghetti westerns. Opens Aug 14

Dir: Pedro Almodovar (15, 113 mins) The latest from Spanish director Almodovar is a semiautobiographical tale about a film director struggling with creative block. Antonio Banderas is superb as Almodovar’s avatar, Salvador Mallo, suffering from a catalogue of issues preventing him from realising his creative vision. He is a man on the edge of a nervous breakdown, about to see his early film Sabor screened in a retrospective in Madrid and forced to address issues from his past. These involve a reconciliation with actor Alberto Crespo (the charismatic Asier Etxeandia) with whom he fell out but reconnects with over some shared heroin. Subsequently, the film addresses other relationships in his life, including ex-lover Frederico (Leonardo Sbaraglia), and his mother, played by Penelope Cruz in youthful flashback and Julietta Serrano in the present, facing death. Almodovar dials down his usual flourishes and delivers something poignant. Opens Aug 23

SCARY STORIES TO TELL IN THE DARK ***

Dir: Andre Ovredal (15, 90 mins) A kids’ literary phenomenon in the USA, writer Alvin Schwartz’s gleefully unsettling horror stories are given terrifying life via producer and co- writer Guillermo Del Toro and Trollhunters director Orvedal. Schwartz had written 82 shorts-soiling tales, whittled down to a handful here. Set in an Amblinesque Americana of 1968, the film follows a group of youngsters, led by Zoe Margaret Colletti’s Stella, who discover a book in the abandoned Bellows house, the creepiest haunted mansion in the town. Here, allegedly, Sarah Bellows, a disturbed young girl, wrote stories with characters who have a nasty habit of coming to life. Of course, they take the book out of the mansion and are soon being petrified by the likes of the Toe Monster – a corpse missing a toe – Harold the scarecrow and the Pale Lady, all brought to gruesome life under the watchful eye of monster maestro Del Toro. This should deliver on the shiver. Opens Aug 23

TRANSIT (15) Romantic drama as a man trying to escape a Nazi-occupied France falls in love with the wife of the man whose identity he has assumed. HAUNT (15) Haunted-house shenanigans as a predictable group of silly friends go to a house that supposedly feeds on their fears. MARY (15) Horror film starring Gary Oldman and Emily Mortimer, as a family buy a ship that has spooky secrets when out on open water. THE MUSTANG (15) Matthias Schoenaerts is a convict given the opportunity of rehabilitation by looking after mustang horses. Equine prison antics ensue. A GUIDE TO SECOND DATE SEX (15) British romcom starring Alexandra Roach and George MacKay. A MILLION LITTLE PIECES (15) A drug addict attempts to recover in this adaptation of James Frey’s book. Aaron Taylor Johnson stars while Sam Taylor Johnson directs.

BUZZ 35

art

LYNSEY REEVES: 10,000 COLLARS

The Gate, Cardiff Thurs 8 Aug-Wed 14 Sept 10,000 Collars is an exhibition extolling the importance of adopting dogs, focusing on the Yulin Meat Festival in China, where thousands of dogs are cruelly killed each year for food.

This project aims to raise awareness about the dirty truths of the dog meat industry, which allegedly includes stolen pets.

Lynsey Reeves produced her own solo project after living in China for two years. She herself adopted a dog who was bound for the festival on a meat truck, and bought him back to the UK. For her, the incident is an opportunity to raise awareness of the thousands of dogs in China killed annually. The title references the amount of dogs it’s estimated are killed each year; since 21 June 2018, when the last festival began, she has attempted to create 10,000 pieces of artwork to reflect that volume.

Both colourful and inspirational, the pieces themselves use a variety of tools and techniques, reflecting partly the various personalities and breeds of many of our best friends. Combining her love for art and dogs, Lynsey uses her expertise to offer an understanding of the potential impact we have.

Admission: free. Info: 029 2048 3344 / www.thegate.org.uk (GR) BUZZ 36

ANDREW VICARI: KING OF PAINTERS, PAINTER OF KINGS

National Waterfront Museum, Swansea Until Sun 3 Nov This year, Swansea’s National Waterfront Museum is paying tribute to the work and life of Port Talbot’s Andrew Vicari. Born to Southern Italian parents, Vicari went on to achieve international recognition and was christened the “king of painters, painter of kings” by French journalist Pierre Galante.

The exhibition documents an artist set up from adolescence to become a worldrenowned craftsman. Vicari won a gold medal at the National Eisteddfod Of Wales at just 13 years old and became the youngest student ever admitted to the prestigious Slade School Of Fine Art. Under the tutelage of Francis Bacon and Augustus John, he was able to refine his skills in draughtsmanship and develop his own distinct style, characterised by vivid strokes of colour, impressionist influences and his iconic, fantastical suns.

In the 1970s, Vicari’s impressions of prominent world leaders and public figures began to gather interest overseas and he was soon propelled into the Arab cultural world through an acquaintance at the Foreign Office, going on to be appointed the official painter of Saudi Arabia and artist laureate to King Faisal. His ability to depict the King through his paintings, unafraid to use striking hues and swap traditionalist styles for a more contemporary image of the Saudi royal, impressed officials and prompted the historic move which established him as the first non-Muslim to hold such a position in Islamic and Arab culture.

Whilst much of Vicari’s work is dedicated to the depiction of Arab landscapes and identity, including some of the most prolific artistic ventures in modern art history, the Welsh painter also maintained strong roots with his homeland. Featured in the National Waterfront Museum will be his painting of Baglan Bay in Swansea, a striking piece which captures Wales’ industrial landscape.

The exhibition will also showcase a selection of the late painter’s personal items, a testimonial to one of Wales’ most famous artists. AMY WATTS Admission: free. Info: 0300 1112333 / museum.wales/swansea

SPRUNG SPRING

G39, Cardiff Sat 10 Aug-Sat 12 Oct Sprung Spring is an exhibition of embracing the processes of failure, exposure and humour by offering an escape from the realities of life, with a focus on laughter as the main theme. It features work from Brazilian artist Marcos Chaves, whose aim is to open paths, encouraging viewers to be open minded of the awkwardness and depth that humour holds. Beyond that are works by Rebecca Gould and Philippa Brown, who provide a mixture of practical and innovative work, creating a potential masterclass in how to overcome awkwardness and unbearableness. The intention at times seems to be to create work that’s in dialogue across the gallery space.

Gould’s work focuses on the sculptural and practical aspects of art, the humorous themes strengthened by her ability to highlight the uncomfortable yet harmonious nature of laughter. Brown’s work showcases the contrasting nature of old and new, how we are all unaware of our fictional responses to ideas.

Beyond that, the other artists included – Tim Bromage, George Manson, and Nightshift Int collective – tackles subjects as varied as repetition, taboo materials and surrealism.

Admission: free. Info: 029 2047 3633 / www.g39.org.uk (GR)

INSCAPE

Boundary Art, Cardiff Bay Throughout August Incorporating the work of five distinct artists, this exhibition is bound to awaken the senses and yet send you straight into a dreamworld. Shanghaibased Ping-Gang Cheng is a painter and calligraphist whose work often carries a bold contrast of colours and brushstrokes, creating the illusion of abstract shapes. Aaron Davies is a local Welsh artist who studied right here in Cardiff; he creates elegant ceramics using textures in a unique and almost random manner, providing more to see the closer you get.

Daleet Leon is a painter who produces chaotic yet calming pieces. His work conjures rough seas using beautifully blended colours and textures. Daleet focuses on nature in his work and attempts to transcend into what he calls ‘dream realities’, bringing the unconscious to the surface of the water which he paints. Sarah Spencer’s paintings draw on cinema’s aesthetic and derelict spaces while Sky Siouki captures landscapes and gives them a dreamlike aura by focusing on clouds that enshroud sunlight. This particular assemblage of artists highlight the importance of textures when it comes to emotion in modern art.

Admission: free. Info: 029 2048 9869 / www.boundaryart.com (JG)

LESLEY LILLYWHITE & HARRIET LLOYD

Tower Gallery, Crickhowell Until Sat 21 Sept Local artists Lesley Lillywhite and Harriet Lloyd present their modern interpretations of nature and wildlife here. Printmaker Lillywhite takes inspiration from Japanese methods in her woodblock carvings, etchings and paintings, which is clear in the soft, hazy style of her work. Her pieces are romantic and almost fairytale-like, with strokes of subdued colour and delicate line work highlighting the intricacy of landscape that she is depicting. Nature is a common theme in Lillywhite’s work, with emphasis on the Welsh countryside.

Lloyd takes inspiration from the everyday objects and ornaments that she finds at home or on the high street, bringing unremarkable items to life and injecting them with character. Her pieces, which combine watercolour, pen, ink and collage, often draw inspiration from famous tales and legends, such as the Tortoise and the Hare, and are able to present a certain narrative despite being constructed with supposedly mundane objects. The colours and patterns used in her pieces are nostalgic of the childhood memories from which she draws inspiration, providing a retro aesthetic through warm, bold patterns and colours.

Info: 01873 812495 / www.towergallery.co.uk (AW)

e here

Amgueddfa Genedlaethol Caerdydd National Museum Cardiff

Nadroedd!

Snakes!

22.6.19 – 15.9.19 Dewch i ddysgu am fywyd rhyfeddol nadroedd mewn arddangosfa i’r teulu cyfan.

Discover the slithering, secret life of snakes in this family friendly exhibition.

Parc Cathays, Caerdydd CF10 3NP amgueddfa.cymru/nadroedd Cathays Park, Cardiff CF10 3NP museum.wales/snakes

stage

MATHILDAMATHILDA

Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon Sun 11 Aug Aimed, in its own words, at “anyone who’s ever wanted to fit in, but had no idea how”, this puppet show, suitable for children aged seven or above, comes to Brecon this August. Put together by the Bristol-based theatre company Soap Soup, this musical play is written and performed by mother-daughter duo Ros and Tomasin Cuthbert.

The main character, MathildaMathilda, is a two-headed doll that has come to life thanks to a little girl who was practising writing her name. Based on the character created by Ros Cuthbert in her most recent paintings, Soap Soup have long specialised in visual theatre, making use of all manner of puppetry and physicality, harking back to the longgone days of vaudeville and music hall.

The soundtrack accompanying the storyline consists of original jazz songs produced by Ashley John Long, a young composer at this year’s London Philharmonic. Also joining in will be the Soap Soup Community Choir, in their last performance before going on tour.

Alongside this, the stunning artwork and scenic decorations for the show’s background will capture not only the children’s attention in the audience, but the adults’ too.

Tickets: £10/£8. Info: 01874 611622 / www.brycheiniog.co.uk (JG) BUZZ 38

MADAGASCAR THE MUSICAL

Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay Tue 6-Sun 11 Aug Dreamworks’ box office sensation Madagascar is bound for the stage this August, bringing the animated escapees of Central Park Zoo to life in the Millennium Centre’s Donald Gordon Theatre. The 2005 motion picture made quite the splash on the big screen, prompting two sequels, a spin-off movie and now its very own smash-hit musical. X-Factor winner Matt Terry will take on the role of Alex the lion – the zoo’s most popular, and pampered, inhabitant who lives for the limelight – while restless zebra, Marty, who longs for a life beyond the zoo walls will be played

by Antoine Murray-Straughan of West End production In The Heights.

Their comfortable lives at the zoo are interrupted suddenly when Marty decides to make his escape, and his friends Gloria (Timmika Ramsey’s sassy hippo) and Melman (Jamie Lee-Morgan’s hypochondriac giraffe) go after him with a rather reluctant Alex, who’d rather stay behind in the luxury enclosure. It’s safe to say that things don’t go quite to plan, as the stars of Central Park Zoo end up stranded in the Madagascar jungle where they must learn to fend for themselves. With the ‘help’ of some rather ambitious penguins, the gang tries to get back to the zoo but encounters a few bumps along the way, including a royal lemur who loves to move it move it and some hunger-induced hallucinations.

Using a mixture of actors, many of whom specialise in physical comedy, and puppetry to animate its rotating anthropomorphic collection of characters, Madagascar: The Musical is directed by Kirk Jameson, whose previous credits include a revival of the Peter Nichols play Privates On Parade, Irving Berlin’s Annie Get Your Gun and the German premiere of the hugely popular The Last Five Years.

Buckets of adventure, a brilliant cast and lively score make for a roaring, feelgood show which has already sparked rave reviews across the country and is set to continue its streak in Cardiff. AMY WATTS Tickets: £16-£34. Info: 029 2063 6464 / www.wmc.org.uk

THE TEMPEST

Cardigan Castle, Wed 14 Aug; Montgomery Castle, Powys, Thurs 15 Specialising in open-air theatre, Illyria Theatre Company have been recreating plays for 28 years, with Shakespeare arguably their speciality. Harking back to the old Shakespearean days of the open-air Globe, Illyria’s rendition of one of his last plays will explore themes of scorn, abandonment and hope with a lively flavour. Performing in the historical grounds of two Welsh castles as part of an extensive UK tour running until September, audiences will be prompted of the hardships faced in the 16th century with the relevancy of 21st century topics of greed and forgiveness.

Featuring five actors, the open environment will contrast the intensity of a theatre with intimacy and immediacy. The portrayal of Prospero, by Marcus Fernando of the 1997 rendition, hopes to highlight the importance of the language and comedic elements of Shakespeare’s beloved work. Being the only UKbased open air company to win four international awards, Illyria prepares to reach audiences in Cardigan and Chepstow with an Elizabethan element.

Stepping into Shakespearean shoes, this authoritative rendition highlights love lost and found, providing theatrical moments that will shock and stun.

Tickets: £9-£15.

Info: www.illyria.co.uk/tempest (GR)

SENSE AND SENSIBILITY

Abergavenny Castle Wed 14 Aug It may seem outdated 208 years after its first publication, but Jane Austen’s classic romance novel Sense And Sensibility, continues to find relevance on stages today. The plot of the book follows the lives of three Dashwood sisters when disastrous circumstances befall them, as they are forced to leave their childhood home. Leaving their house and social status behind, the girls grow into young women all the while experiencing stories of love and heartbreak.

If classic literature isn’t your thing, no need to worry because this adaptation is set to bring the story to life using lively music and interaction. Performed by The Pantaloons, the story will undergo a sort of comic renovation to better suit audiences in 2019. The English touring theatre company previously performed Oscar Wilde’s The Importance Of Being Earnest in Abergavenny last summer and attracted positive reviews.

The group prides itself in taking inspiration from popular styles and reimagining them in a fun, experimental manner. This year’s adaptation aims to relay a reliable account of the sisters’ story all the while bringing some modern day humour into the mix too.

Tickets: £14/£8 kids. Info: 01873 854282 / www.abergavennymuseum.co.uk (JG)

SWAN LAKE

New Theatre, Cardiff Fri 16 + Sat 17 Aug Directed by Janet Lewis MBE, the English Youth Ballet will be bringing their production of Swan Lake to the New Theatre this month. Swan Lake is, of course, one of the most famous ballets around, with the English Youth Ballet providing young dancers outside of London a chance to perform and hone their craft whilst entertaining the audience. The production is a fairly traditional version of Swan Lake, with a particular focus on the conflict between the sinful, seductive Black Swan Odile and the innocent but vulnerable White Swan Odette.

With the classic Tchaikovsky score retained, this rendition gives the audience a chance to see the ballet in a new light, featuring young dancers telling the story in a traditional setting.

It’s a timeless but tragic story featuring romance, tragedy and magic.

The contrasting elements of this performance means there’s a chance to see many of the ballet’s most famous elements, including the iconic Lakeside scene and the Tsar’s Palace Gardens in act three. Split into four acts – Main Theme, Valse de Cygnes, Pas de deux and the Final Act – expect a fairytale story of good against evil with exquisite dancing from its coterie of young talents.

Tickets: £12.50-£24.50. Info: 029 2087 8889 / newtheatrecardiff.co.uk (GR)

UPCOMING HIGHLIGHTS...

THE

Sand Dragon

ST JOHN

ASMA K HAN

HANG FIR E

SANDOR K ATZ

DIANA HENRY

OL LY SMITH

ZOE ADJONYOH JOSÉ PIZARRO BEE WILSON TOMMY HEANEY BREWER JAEGA WISE YNYSHIR’S GARETH WARD ROSIE BIRKETT DJ BBQ TV’S DIRTY VEGAN MATT PRITCHARD JOSH EGGLETON ELLY PEAR AND MANY MORE STREET FOOD NIGHT MARKET FESTIVAL FARMYARD FEASTS FAMILY ACTIVITIES COOKERY SCHOOL FORAGING TOURS MASTERCLASSES DRINKS THEATRE KIDS GO FREE WYE VALLEY MEADERY DUSTY KNUCKLE SWSHI BROTHER THAI ROGUE PRESERVES BLOXS BUTTER CWLBOX TREALY FARM CHARCUTERIE OVER 200 FOOD STALLS

Wristbands and tickets on sale now at:

www.abergavennyfoodfestival.com @afoodfestival #AFF2019

AUGUST 2019 just fill out this form and post it, along with a cheque to:

Buzz Publishers Ltd, 220c Cowbridge Road East, Canton, Cardiff CF5 1GY

clubs

STILL 21

Pic: Marcus-Maschwitz

Inkspot, Cardiff Fri 30 Aug + Sat 1 Sept Two nights dedicated to celebrating everything south Wales has to offer in the realms of underground drum‘n’bass, trance, hip-hop, grime, trap and everything in between. There’s a gargantuan list of artists set to perform already with some still to be confirmed, with many names that are already well established especially in the Cardiff scene.

The event is purpose built to be multi-staged and therefore a multi-genre experience.

There’s set to be three different stages: The Raw Stage, The Drum & Bass Stage and The Trance Stage. Raw will be dedicated to hip-hop, grime, trap and any subgenres that they may slip into. Hosted by Ez Rah and Prendy [pictured], of Cardiffian grime radio programmme The Raw Show, and expecting artists such as Razkid, Local, Luke RV and Murkage. Names that already bring certain expectations and that are well known in the Cardiff scene especially. Luke RV in particular is one to keep an eye on with his unique crooning flow combining nicely with the more traditional grime flows and methods of Local and Murkage.

It’s inevitable, at times, that there be a blurring of genres between the Raw Stage and the Drum & Bass Stage. But it’s also evident that the latter is going to move beyond the 140bpm styles of the former and taking the event into the uptempo, brash and abrasive ways of d’n’b. Prepare for more floor-wobbling basslines and ruffneck, gruff MCs when approaching this stage, with the likes of Kenetix, Apollo, Joe Blow and a lot more. There’s also said to be a third stage/genre shift, named Trance Dun Differently, if you prefer the more uplifting and decadent elements of electronic music.

A truly impressive aspect of this event is that the underlying ambition is fundraising – organised by Cardiffian photographer Simon O’Connor, in order to raise money to support host venue Inkspot. The organisers have made it clear that all the proceeds from the evening will be going straight to the venue, to enable it to continue to host events such as this. CAMPBELL PROSSER Tickets: £10-£15. Info: 029 2049 0254 / www.inkspotartsandcrafts.com

SPOKENN / VOIGTMANN

Delete @ Jacob’s Market, Cardiff Sun 25 Aug Another one at Jacob’s! Dutch duo Spokenn [pictured] spell ‘tech-house’ with a capital H and play peppy, steppy, pristinely-produced tracks with popping staccato grooves that change twice in the half-hour, therefore bringing a kind of Fabric feel to the room like some sort of mandy-scented candle.

Voigtmann’s sets are a bit harder to pin down; like Spokenn’s, they’re all pretty upbeat and peppy, (also steppy), but there’s a lot more keyboard-mashing that’s been happening, and more weird textures at play. Layers upon layers of loops of dissonant synth bloops and snarls that mash together in a building groove that drops back into that rushing peppy, steppy groove that the Delete crowd will have grown to love after nine or so hours on the car park roof in the daylight, alongside the regular Delete DJs who must have their own coveted plinths between the grandfather clocks at Jacob’s by now.

This is Delete’s last summertime hurrah for the year (how is this happening already?), with an afterparty in the basement that stretches on until 4am and will presumably feature Delete residents again.

Tickets: £18. Info: facebook.com/ deletecardiff (JM)

BUZZ 40

DIRTY KNEES REUNION MEETS BULLION

Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff Fri 30 Aug Now here’s a name straight out the late-2000s Cardiff rave badlands! To be completely specific, Dirty Knees hung up their whistles five years ago but, aided by new(er) jack promoters Bullion, have sauntered back into the dance with a double-headliner payday stonker that combines one of old skool hardcore’s most stalwart with a newer cat who builds on the good work of classic-era dons.

Ratpack are the vintage heads here, a DJ/MC duo who assembled in acid house’s heyday and made their mark as tempos pushed to hardcore. They enjoyed the distinction of being a rave act with a sense of humour that avoided novelty trappings: appreciated both by happy hardcore stompers and moodier junglists, they’ve been a fixture of 90s revival nights since such things existed.

Also down tonight is Gareth Greenway, whose productions as Saxxon [pictured] have a tearout drum’n’bass style that’s as bolshie as the most peabrained jumpup but with considerably more depth.

Twisted jazzy breaks and judicious soul and reggae samples place his production style in the lineage of mid-tolate-90s d’n’b.

Tickets: £15. Info: 029 2023 2199 / www.clwb.net (NG)

HEADROOM

Venue TBC, Abergavenny Fri 2-Sun 4 Aug There’s been a movement in recent years towards dance festivals that are small-scale, with little separating performers and attendees.

Freerotation, just outside Hay-On-Wye, notched another successful weekend of top drawer techno amidst a loyal crowd last month, and it seems likely that it at least partly inspired the first ever Headroom, set in the garden of a farmhouse near Abergavenny.

Founded by Bristol DJs Elliot Weston and Jess Farley, Headroom has a capacity of 250 and tickets and info are obtained by joining a Facebook group.

It’s about as close to a private party as could legitimately be featured on this page, with the description also noting, “Attendance will be weighted more heavily to women and non binary folk.”

The setting looks right lush, the music goes on all night and there’s some top drawer names on the lineup.

Weston and Farley both feature, as DJ Autumn (not to be confused with DJ October, another Bristol face who’s got a peaktime Friday slot) and Jessica [pictured] respectively; other prospective highlights include Manc duo Blasha & Allatt, the increasingly lauded Gwenan, bass devastator K-Lone and Freerotation’s Tom Ellis.

Tickets: £75. Info: www.residentadvisor. net/profile/headroom.dance (NG)

LOGIC FESTIVAL

Riverside Caravan Park, Swansea Sat 7 Sept Shout out to all the ravers! Returning to Swansea for its fourth edition, artists from the Clubland brand/stable such as N-Trance, Darren Styles [pictured] and Ian Van Dahl make a much-awaited return to perform hits like Set You Free, Outta My Head and Castles In The Sky. After a warm welcome last year, the return will surely warm the hearts of trance lovers and pop-rave heads.

Focusing on hard-hitting beats and throwback anthems, Logic will remind Welsh clubbers of the good old days without being a pure nostalgia sesh.

Having attended it myself last year, the reception afforded acts, and the crowd’s love for the music, is worth experiencing.

The success of Logic’s first three years has cemented it in the Swansea ravers’ calendar. Boasting five stages for its 2019 edition – Trance Arena, Xtra Hard, Clubland, Old Skool and a Chill Out Area – the music policy spans hardstyle, happy hardcore and classic hard house, with artists such as Flip & Fill and Judge Jules among the more household names performing. There’s a healthy depth of local DJs and MCs as well as international names like trance-meets-rock Israeli Bliss, and it all looks like an exciting, even riveting 12-hour party.

Tickets: £40. Info: 07763 000382 / www.logicfestival.co.uk (GR)

PONTY’S BIG WEEKEND

the bluetones

glc

legends

PONTY’S BIG WEEKEND SAT 17 AUGUST YNYSANGHARAD PARK, PONTYPRIDD

FEEDER

AIRBOURNE + TYLER BRYANT & THE SHAKEDOWN

THURS 7 NOVEMBER THE GREAT HALL, CARDIFF UNI

SUN 24 NOVEMBER THE GREAT HALL, CARDIFF UNI

FRI STAND ATLANTIC 30 SIN CITY, SWANSEA

MON

THE PALE WHITE 16 CLWB IFOR BACH, CARDIFF

TUE

SEP

SEP

WED

COPE 18 CAMP CLWB IFOR BACH, CARDIFF

THU

TUE

SEP

CHILDCARE 19 CLWB IFOR BACH, CARDIFF SEP

SEP

SUN

SUN

OCT

OCT

FRI O’NEILL 11 ANDREW 10 FEET TALL, CARDIFF

OCT

THU

TUE

OCT

OCT

SAT SPEIGHT 23 TOM THE GATE, CARDIFF

AUG

CAFE 06 PENGUIN ST DAVID’S HALL, CARDIFF

STRUTS 17 THE THE GREAT HALL, CARDIFF UNI

DEEP 06 SWIM THE GLOBE, CARDIFF

22 9BACH CLWB IFOR BACH, CARDIFF

THE PALE WHITE 17 SIN CITY, SWANSEA

EVANS 24 SOPHIE NORWEGIAN CHURCH, CARDIFF

NOV

FOLLOWING A SCREENING OF

17. 3. 2020 • 7 P M C AN O LFAN MILE N IW M C YMR U , C AE R DYDD WALE S MILLE N N IU M C E N T R E , C AR DIF F

TICKETS: WWW.ORCHARDLIVE.COM

The Moon, Cardiff Mon 12 Aug A Chattanooga, TN native now living in Johnson City, Amythyst Kia is a selfdescribed “Southern Gothic, alt-country blues singer/songwriter” whose repertoire flows into tributaries of folk, bluegrass, rock and gospel. Kiah put out her debut album in 2013, Dig, with both traditional classics like Darlin’ Corey and a Radiohead cover, but also her own compositions such as My Old Man. The Amythyst Kiah And Her Chest Of Glass EP followed four years later, with renditions of favourite singer Vera Hall as well as more originals.

Her latest album is an initial collaboration of Americana/folk with Our Native Daughters called Songs Of Our Native Daughters, on which she co-wrote three songs and contributed a solo-written work Black Myself. Kiah and fellow singer/ songwriters Rhiannon Giddens, Leyla McCalla and Allison Russell focus on past and present issues that influence(d) black women’s identity, including slavery, racism and sexism – telling histories of their ancestors and more in the process.

Kiah’s influences cross many genres, boundaries and decades and are diverse as Jimmie Rodgers, Mahalia Jackson and Florence And The Machine. Her parents raised her in a very musically aware household, buying her a first guitar at 13.

She’s self-taught and, having learned classical guitar in high school, continued with music and recording studies at university.

“The banjo became of interest to me about 10 years after I started playing guitar,” Kiah tells me via email, about her foray into the instrument she’s becoming famous for mastering. “I learned clawhammer style, which allowed me to be rhythmic and play melody at the same time. Through that, I learned that its origins are from the West African lute family, so to also see how early American folk and country music was indeed a blend of African and European influences, and still is today, it gave me an even greater sense of the scope and depth of American music.”

RHONDA LEE REALI Admission: £12/£10 adv. Info: 029 2037 3022 / themooncardiff.com

Pic: Ivana Kličković

Pic: Anna Hedges

live

AMYTHYST KIAH

CATE LE BON

Portland House, Cardiff Bay Thu 29 Aug Twelve years after emerging from the hitherto untapped pop wilderness of Penboyr in Carmarthenshire, Cate Le Bon is now international alt-rock royalty. At the time of writing, she is supporting Kurt Vile and Dinosaur Jr in the USA, her CV includes production credits for the likes of Deerhunter, Perfume Genius has appeared on her records and when she’s not releasing or promoting any of her increasingly thrilling albums, she’s either appearing with John Cale and the London Contemporary Orchestra or learning how to make furniture.

Her latest album, Reward, is aptly titled. A more piano-based outing than previous albums, it finds her adding more ambitious layers of sound to her already unconventional take on psychedelia. Not the easiest of listens at first, Reward is melancholic and unnerving, yet somehow still playful, a Hounds Of Love for our troubled times and a mesmerising trip through the mind of one of our most inventive artists.

In a world where Chasing Cars is the most played record on 21st century radio, it’s never been more important to cherish someone breaking rules with such wild originality.

Tickets: £17.50. Info: 029 2048 7602 / www.portlandhousecardiff.com (PJ) BUZZ 42

HUB FESTIVAL

Womanby Street, Cardiff Fri 23-Sun 25 Aug As the focal point for Cardiff’s music scene, it’s entirely fitting that Womanby Street should be the location for Hub Festival, set to take place (as usual) across a number of venues over the course of the August Bank Holiday weekend. Hub functions in part as a showcase for local talent, and Threatmantics, Spencer Segelov, Oh Peas!, My Name Is Ian and Papur Wal are among those benefiting from slots on this year’s bill. Out-of-towners are also welcome, though, with Mugstar, Sex Swing, Witching Waves and Charmpit [pictured] the pick of the bunch.

The street’s Psych & Noise Festival each May is a broader church than its name might imply, but Hub serves up a significantly more diverse array of artists – perhaps best exemplified this year by the inaugural Community Stage, programmed by a quartet of local grime, hip-hop and drum’n’bass promoters.

With more than 120 live performances across the weekend, Hub is the sort of event that invites attendees to throw themselves in and discover unknown pleasures. Who could resist taking a punt on 100% Rabbit, Clusterfuck or Godspeed You! Peter Andre?

Tickets: £26/£14 under-18s (weekend); £15/£7 under-18s (per day); free under-12s. Info: www.hubfestcardiff. co.uk (BW)

TACOCAT

Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff Wed 28 Aug Seattle surf-pop-punk group Tacocat return to these parts for a late-summer headline show. After forming in 2007, the four-piece have been growing in popularity ever since, and toured Europe in 2014 and ‘16, the latter incorporating a Cardiff date.

Consisting of singer Emily Nokes, bassist Bree McKenna, Lelah Maupin on drums and guitarist Eric Randall, Tacocat’s latest album This Mess Is A Place encapsulates their noisy disposition perfectly. The cover art gives the listener a preview of the vibrant sounds we’re set to hear, and just as you need to look closely at it to find the title, you need to listen attentively to Nokes’ lyrics to get what they’re all about. The vocalist stands out in forever-funky costumes that reflect the youthful, animated voice she projects into their songs. Seeing them live, you feel, would be something like witnessing disco fairies perform for you.

Although slamming the penuries of everyday life, for example in the lyrics to Hologram – “no paperwork, no jerks, no parking tickets, no beak to feed, no nine-to-five” – This Mess Is A Place continually reasserts a fun, slightly angry optimism about the state of the world.

Tickets: £8.50. Info: 02920232199 / www.clwb.net (JG)

WALL2WALL JAZZ FESTIVAL

Kings Head / Melville Centre, Abergavenny Mon 26 Aug-Sun 1 Sept Abergavenny promoters Black Mountain Jazz see the summer off with Wall2wall, their annual week-long jazz festival. A likely highlight, making her debut for BMJ, is Lady Nade [pictured] with an exclusive set, Tribute To The Blues Dames. This young Bristolian musician will be paying tribute to the likes of Sister Rosetta Tharpe on Tue 27 Aug. For a more upbeat tempo you can look forward to The Big Bluesy Jazz Band on Sat 31. This performance sees trombonist Dennis Rollins playing alongside various young and upcoming musicians. Workshops, run by singer Naomi Rae, will include fun activities for younger children as well as gospel singing, and to switch it up a bit, some tango jazz.

On Thurs 29, dinner is served at the Angel Hotel, at which jazz vocalist Ian Shaw will be performing. Other acts include songwriter Sarah Gillespie, whose poetic melange of jazz, blues and folk arrives on Sat 31. To close the festival, the Renewal Choir will be singing gospel tunes to soothe the soul on Sun 1 Sept, followed by the Walesoriginated, Manchester-based Claire Victoria Duo. Tickets: prices vary. Info: www. blackmountainjazz.co.uk (JG)

reviews WE'VE BEEN WATCHING...

BIG LITTLE LIES S2 (NOW TV/Sky)

As the title suggests, this series is all about secrets, so we’ll try not to give too much away. The first season centred on someone’s death, but you didn’t know whose, why it happened nor the culprit. The second season is about whether the secret can be kept under wraps, under pressure. What marks this series out is both the quality of actors (Streep, Witherspoon, Kidman etc) and the gender balance of the cast, on top of being well-written, tense and dramatic too. ****MH

THE HANDMAID’S TALE S3 (All 4/Channel 4)

Oh Gilead, you’re testing us. Margaret Atwood’s best-selling novel adaptation is well into its third season. We’ve seen 15-year-old girls drowned for kissing someone, female genital mutilation, poisonous colonies and many an eye taken out.

Surely, things can’t get any worse, right? June’s emotional torture continues as she hunts for her daughter Hannah, providing a gripping, finger-biting experience. Although slow at times, the show makes up for it with its tense dialogue exchanges between characters. It really puts into perspective the horrors that some women are actually experiencing over the world and tells of an archaic society we can’t and must not have. If you’re into emotional rollercoasters and after a refreshing dystopian story, this is as good as ever. ****JA

WHEN THEY SEE US (Netflix)

There are few things that will make you as simultaneously sad and angry as When They See Us, a painful account of the Central Park Five case which portrays the five young African and Latin American boys who were coerced into admitting to a brutal rape. After each spending 6-13 years in prison, they were exonerated after DNA found another convict guilty. A brilliantly gritty depiction of the hidden bias of the state and the failure of the press to question its claims: bravo to director Ada DuVernay. Everyone needs to watch this. *****RA

THE MONEY HEIST S3 (Netflix)

Pulpy, entertaining and a bucketload of fun, this Spanishlanguage heist thriller returns for a third series, setting up a whole new heist with an extra cavalcade of intrigue. What it lacks in subtlety it makes up for in sheer pizazz – and I’m always a sucker for a good heist story. In this case, the gang of criminals place themselves as forerunners of a citizen’s revolution (mirroring, perhaps, elements of Podemos in Spain), allying to take down the corrupt, archaic government by robbing the Bank Of Spain. Whilst the performances are occasionally one-note and some of the plotting overstretched, but otherwise, the best bit is that the state secrets they threaten to leak out are all depressingly believable and realistic rather than Bond-villain outlandish. ***FT

ROMANCE

(Second Sight – home release)

Catherine Breillat has long been one of the most uncompromising (and controversial) directors out there. This re-issue of Romance provides a fresh chance to look at one of her signature films. It’s not an easy film to like – we follow Marie (Caroline Ducey), sexually unfulfilled by her boyfriend, as she trawls the night, hooking up with various men, including one played by Italian porn actor Rocco Siffredi and another a humble, older man – played by Francois Bearland – who introduces her to BDSM. The sex scenes are often unsimulated, but this is not erotic. It is a cold and deeply dissatisfied film, questioning deeply our entrenched notions of what constitutes romance and pleasure. *****FT BUZZ 44

albums

s s

ARMSTRONG ** Under Blue Skies (The Beautiful Music/ Country Mile) This 2007 album, originally on CDr, secures a wider release but sadly proves the point that some things are best left undiscovered.

There’s a promising start, with the Byrdsian Rickenbacker pop and harmonies of Love Hate Passion War and the breezy Aztec Camera snapshot of Crazy World, but after that the nasal Buddy Holly notes of singer/songsmith Julian Pitt increasingly chafe against the lacklustre songwriting, defiling their otherwise pretty pastoral pop with tons of slurry. CS

BLANCK MASS **** Animated Violence Mild (Sacred Bones) Blanck Mass by name, Blanck Mass by nature.

Album number four from Benjamin John Power, one half of Fuck Buttons, is big, bombastic, and bizarre. Swaying between sounding like the soundtrack to a Chilean wonderkid’s goalsand-tricks YouTube compilation (House Vs. House), fight music on a MMORPG (Love Is A Parasite), and the kind of stuff that pumps out of a Cyberdog stall at Download (Death Drop), Animated Violence Mild is utterly bonkers.

Fun, though, if screamo-EDM-goth-trance is your bag. SE

FEEDER **** Tallulah (self-released)

BABYBIRD ***** Photosynthesis (self-released) Go into this latest album from Stephen Jones expecting to find another You’re Gorgeous and you’ll be disappointed.

This is a far darker, pessimistic and less commercial collection of songs. Tracks include the instrumental Black Friday Jesus and the single No Camera, a slow, thought-provoking muse on modern life. It might be Jones’ haunting delivery, the downbeat yet hypnotic tone, or the bells and violins but by track three I was hooked. LN

BARRY ADAMSON **** Live At The Union Chapel (Live Here Now) Late last year, Barry Adamson put on a show which dug backwards – to his time with Magazine and the Bad Seeds – and forwards, from imaginary noir soundtrack classic Moss Side Story to more recent songs like The Hummingbird taken from highly recommended Adamson retrospective album Memento Mori.

Accompanied by a band with brass and strings, Adamson managed to raise the roof of the old chapel with his unique cinematic soul. This live album is proof of that. DN

Studio album number 10 for the resurgent Feeder. No pressure, following the last two top 10 releases, but from my ears they should be in with another shot at the chart. The lyricism of Grant Nicholas shines through yet again here, Fear Of Flying coming across as anthemic with its contrasting verses and soaring hook. Kyoto is also up there, a metallic belter of a track. Absolutely great to see the guys back to their best. OS

FÖLLAKZOID *** I (Sacred Bones) These Chilean characters are primarily viewed in the context of the global psychedelic rock scene, not least because that’s the sort of music they used to play, but I (their fourth album, mildly confusingly) sees them comprehensively memoryhole that part of their makeup. There are live instruments in there somewhere, but they’ve been remixed by German electronic oddball Uwe Schmidt into exactly one hour of hypnotic, dubby tech-trance minimalism.

Would probably sound great live, assuming Föllakzoid have the tekkers to perform it. NG

THE HOLD STEADY **** Thrashing Thru The Passion (Frenchkiss)

BILL RYDER-JONES *** Yawny Yawn (Domino) Ryder-Jones, using only vocals and piano, reimagines his 2018 release Yawn, and the absence of other instruments make this even more melancholic.

Intensely pensive and personal, the singer/ songwriter/musician reflects on death, loss, relationships, mental illness and medication side-effects. While there’s no denying the craft that draws one in, his monotone, slow inflection and playing tempo may be too clinical and dirgelike for some. Pursuing the lyrics while listening will help keep you from nodding off. RLR

With the return of Franz Nicolay to the fold, The Hold Steady, now a six-piece, are back with Thrashing Thru The Passion. Over the years they’ve honed their postpunk-meets-Americana sound so well, you’d think they were its originators, and these 10 tracks don’t detract from that formula.

The Hüsker Dü-meets-Springsteen element is present and correct, but Craig Finn’s storied lyrics just get better and better with every release. The perfect accompaniment to those long summer evenings. CA

s

s

s

s

KAISER CHIEFS ****

OFF WITH THEIR HEADS *****

RUSSIAN CIRCLES ****

WHY? ****

Duck (Polydor)

Be Good (Epitaph)

Blood Year (Sargent House)

Aokohio (Joyful Noise)

With Brexit impending, nefarious leaders, political squabbles and tension in the Middle East, what we need is a dose of positivity as the daily news seems to be getting grimmer and grimmer. With their seventh album, Kaiser Chiefs have tried to create an antidote to all that is going wrong, rather than wallow, and they’ve succeeded. Duck is an extremely uplifting selection of tuneful new wave stadium-indierockers that will please more than just the Kaiser Chiefs fanbase. DN

The latest album from the Minneapolis punk rockers is, according to frontman Ryan Young, “less about feeling sorry for yourself and more about accepting how goddamn miserable you are.” The lyrics may be melancholic, the vocals gruff and angry, but the music is certainly uplifting. There are some great trashy guitar riffs and pounding drumbeats, while the quieter moments give you a chance to catch your breath.

Be Good is very good. LN

Produced, like its predecessor Guidance, by Kurt Ballou at Steve Albini’s Electrical Audio, Blood Year is a moody, muscular beast that boasts earthshaking riffs for metalheads (on closing track Quartered in particular), enough nimble deviations and finger-tapping to keep the ArcTanGent crew happy, and the odd fleeting moment of tranquillity for fans of Explosions In The Sky. Milano is as relentlessly, jawdroppingly dense as Donald Trump, but thankfully far more pleasurable to listen to. BW

This is no run-of-the-mill-heard-it-all-before indie music: Aokohio has depth. Tracks are sometimes as short as 31 seconds, many are indefinable and many, such as Launch, are over before they really take off. There are smooth vocals, interesting lyrics, public service broadcasts, squeaks and squawks, synths and jaunty tunes. This isn’t an album to dip in and out of: there’s a lot to take in and it needs your full attention. LN

REDD KROSS **** Beyond The Door (Merge)

ŠIROM ****

Mallory Knox: it’s been a while. It seems the band have waited some time to release their next batch of songs, saying, “you only get one self-titled album in your career, so you better make it count.” And in fairness, this riff-filled release gives a great pitch at where this band is at right now. White Lies and Black Holes sound out loud and clear, adding to a 12-track release that’s a true interpretation of the band’s current outlook. OS

You can’t pretend American powerpop veterans, nay legends Redd Kross haven’t been above slipping slightly since their heyday albums like 1987’s Neurotica, but hell, I sometimes wake up at night with tears of thanks that I never had to follow up Neurotica. This new album, though – now this is vintage Redd Kross. That manic 60s breakfast cereal commercial energy is not only back, it’s palpable, and it turns out Beyond The Door actually ranks as one of their best. JM

A Universe That Roasts Blossoms For A Horse (Tak:til/Glitterbeat)

MEATRAFFLE ****

THE REGRETTES ****

Bastard Music (Delayed)

How Do You Love? (Warners)

After their impressive 2015 debut Hi Fi Classics, South Londoners Meatraffle offer up Bastard Music, so-called because of its indeterminable origins.

Their blend of proletariat post-punk and weird, wonky funk falls somewhere between Sleaford Mods and Fat White Family, while the socialist spoken word of their trumpeter-vocalist Zsa Zsa Sapien has the lairy London swagger of Baxter Dury. Here’s a band who have forged their own musical manifesto — and it’s not a bad one to follow, comrades. SP

Absolutely loving the resurgence of the riot grrrl scene, in its various guises, over the past few years. LA four-piece The Regrettes offer a less angry approach to feminist and political issues, outwardly at least – but dig deeper and you’ll find it all in the lyrics. The band combine a variety of influences on How Do You Love?, veering between the garage rock of The Strokes and the indie punk of Skating Polly to create something quite special. CA

MALLORY KNOX **** Mallory Knox (A Wolf At Your Door)

THE MURDER CAPITAL **** When I Have Fears (Human Season) The Murder Capital’s vocalist James McGovern has dismissed comparisons with Idles as “lazy journalism”, insisting “there’s a credible Irish scene”.

So he can’t have any complaints about anyone drawing the inevitable parallels between swaggering, prickly, declamatory punk songs like Don’t Cling To Life and More Or Less and those of fellow Dubliners Fontaines DC. What sets The Murder Capital apart is McGovern’s willingness to swap the bark for a soulful croon and even, on How The Streets Adore Me Now, a lugubrious Mark Lanegan-esque baritone. BW

RIDE **** This Is Not A Safe Place (Wichita) The 90s shoegaze quartet keep to trademarks with their sixth album: beautiful vocal harmonies, swirling guitars and a driving rhythm section.

Shimmering dreampop and psychedelic moods colour tunes including single Future Love – especially reminiscent of the Church, and capturing perfectly the flush of newness – Jump Jet and the gorgeous Kinks-like Dial Up (a few are on the garage/punk spectrum). Even if their songwriting is, typically, not the strongest, with melodies like Shadows Behind The Sun Ride are still soaring in the clouds. RLR

demos

This Slovenian trio translate their song titles into English, which is both helpful and a boon, as they’re most intriguing (Low Probability Of A Hug being my personal favourite). The songs on A Universe…, their third album, are lengthy – five in just under 45 minutes – and inscrutable: rickety, mostly instrumental folk manoeuvres that are trad at root, but dreamlike and cubist in their arrangements, and played on a vast array of stringed things and percussive gizmos. NG

WHO ARE THE MONSTERS

SPOON ****

Everything Hits at Once (Matador) Despite several fine albums, Spoon have always been one utensil off the indiepop top drawer, and their ambition with Everything Hits… was to compile an end-of-era best of to rival Substance. I can only predict, that this comp should finally see them bend the charts to their will, Uri Geller-like. Fans of the warped guitar pop of Wilco, Eels, Beck and XTC will be chuffed by the titular tune and the likes of the heavenly Inside Out, the Motowny ...Cherry Bomb and the new wavey Got Nuffin. Sporking great! CS

VARIOUS **** STUMM433 (Mute) John Cage’s composition 4’33”, in which the performers are instructed to put down their instruments, and the audience encouraged to listen to any incidental sounds around them, is an interesting choice for a recording project. Nonetheless, Mute Records have released a box set of performances of this famous work from 50 of their artists, including Depeche Mode and Yann Tiersen. A daring endeavour that, on many tracks, brings an eeriness, and occasionally some musicality, to everyday sounds and background noise. IT

facebook.com/whoarethemonsters The band who exist only conceptually for a lengthy period before achieving corporeality is an honourable tradition, and it seems to apply to Who Are The Monsters, who set up their Facebook page in 2011 and did virtually nothing with it until this year. The trio’s three-song demo has impressive levels of stoner-punk energy, shoegaze texture and the high-decibel lackadaisicality of Dinosaur Jr; I could believe it the product of years of technical tweaking or spontaneously birthed in the studio, and either would be fine. NG

HUNTER FROM FREMONTE facebook.com/hunterfromfremonte Indie-pop, the term Hunter From Fremonte use to describe their music, can mean many different things to different people, but on the evidence of the Cardiff band’s latest songs they sit at the fringe of the concept. Pink, a four-track EP, leads off with shrill MIDI synths, platitudinous samples and glass-crisp drums; it seems more like a PC Music nod. Clarification comes with the arrival of vocal numbers, Runaway and Pick Me Up, the latter of which in particular is frighteningly self-involved sadboi pop balladry. NG

NHM nickhmusic.bandcamp.com NHM, or Nick Harrison, also handles drums and electronics in Sous Le Paves, a Newport band whose swish line in Tortoise-y jazz tinkle was reviewed in this section some time back.

Drums and electronics are what you get in his solo venture, too: a full-length album titled In Situ which is on an early-00s IDM tip, but with jazzier, more ‘live’-sounding (quite possibly on account of being played by him) breakbeats. Not hugely fashionable in 2019, as so-called dance music goes, but quality craftwork. NG

BUZZ 45

music news EXTRA

The likely outcome of the seven-month saga at Guildford Crescent, the Cardiff street previously home to music venue Gwdihw, is that the buildings originally earmarked for demolition will effectively have their fate sealed thus.

Cardiff council’s planning committee have approved a request to knock down all of the affected buildings – Gwdihw and what were two restaurants, Thai House and Madiera – except for their facades and front roof panes.

Assuming this process is carried out as planned, it’s still unconfirmed what developments might result behind these frontages, although the city has chequered history here in Altolusso: a 23-storey skyscraper erected behind the remnants of a Victorian-era building and subject to widespread scorn in architectural circles

Gruff Rhys’ latest solo album Pang! is released by Rough Trade Records on Fri 13 Sept. The convivial psychedelicist and occasional Super Furry Animals singer’s conceit this time out is the South African electronica element, courtesy of Muzi Mazibuko – a producer from Johannesburg who Rhys [pictured] previously worked with on the Africa Express project. Muzi is responsible for much of Pang!’s textures, and while the album has more digital beats and processing than his last few albums, at heart it remains a tuneful, pastoral collection of songs in the Welsh language which could reasonably be filed under folktronica

The Cardiff Arches rehearsal studios were set to close by the end of July as a result of extensive redevelopment of their John Street location. Situated, as per the name, inside three railway arches near to Cardiff Central station, it’s been ran by Tom Pinder since the mid-00s – the structures have housed other arts business for around three decades

– and efforts were made in 2016 to have Cardiff council protect them. However, Pinder is taking the pragmatic route and vacating the premises rather than attempting a legal challenge with odds against him, and plans to relocate in the near future – which, he notes, “will allow us to have a more stable future, so there is definitely a silver lining” A compilation CD of Welsh language music and equivalent Spotify playlist, both titled Cân Y Gân, has just been launched with a view to improving the lives of people living with dementia. This has developed out of an initiative between Bangor University, where research has been undertaken both on the impact music can have on mental health and the lack of such provisions in Welsh at care homes, and women’s organisation Merched Y Wawr.

Launched on Fri 19 July at Cartref Annwl Fan care home in Carmarthenshire, Cân Y Gân includes songs from vintage Welsh folk/pop favourites including Daffydd Iwan, Trebor Edwards and Caryl Parry Jones

Less wholesome news concerning another Welsh icon of Iwan et al’s generation surfaced as cult folk-rock figure Meic Stevens had his ‘Clapton moment’ at a north Wales festival. The Pembrokeshire troubadour, 77, took time out during his set at Gwyll Arall in Caernarfon to discuss the bus ride to his granddaughter’s Cardiff school, on which Muslims apparently outnumber white children – a scenario he foresaw for Caernarfon, too. Stevens’ efforts to explain his comments, including “I have had many friends of different ethnicities over the years,” had at press time failed to wriggle him out of this jam, with both July’s Sesiwn Fawr and August’s Green Man festivals cancelling his slots

ONES TO WATCH...

EÄDYTH & SHAMONIKS

Eädyth is Eadyth Crawford, an Aberaeron-born, Merthyr-based soul vocalist and producer. Sam Humphreys plays in a few bands including Celtic folk-rockers Calan but does dance bod stuff under the Shamoniks pseudonym. The duo gained attention for a collaboration released last year: Ymlaen Yr Awn, a reimagining of a late-60s folk-pop single by Edward Morus Jones, by which time Eädyth had already released her debut EP Cyfrinach and been one of 12 artists selected for the 2018 Horizons scheme.

This month sees the release of Eädyth & Shamoniks’ Keiri, on the Udishido label.

Its five songs are sung by Crawford in both English and Welsh-language versions, an unusual move for speakers of this particular tongue. (I’d imagine the duo had radio play in mind here, a smaller-scale version of hits like Despacito being rerecorded for a secondary market.) The vocalist, whose older sister Kizzy’s bilingual jazz-pop stylings have also been popular in Wales over the last few years, is on fine form throughout, modifying her approach slightly to complement Humphreys’ upfront, buoyant splicing of tropical house and poppy, Hospital Records-type drum’n’bass.

The closing Hebddo Ti / Without You puts all its chips on the latter, wobbly basslines and all, while beforehand the garageinfused melancholia of Ti Yw / You Are is a bold but successful gambit for both parties. Eädyth & Shamoniks will launch Keiri in Cardiff’s Moon venue on Thurs 1 Aug, free entry and all.

Info: twitter.com/eadythofficial / twitter.com/shamoniks BUZZ 46

one louder

MOST months for the last few years, the contents page at the front of this magazine has featured a brief list of the worst band names to feature in Buzz’s live music listings of that particular issue.

Chosen by me, but also objectively accurate, which is why no-one has ever taken umbrage at being featured in it. Choosing a band name that is original, memorable and cool is no easy task, and equally it’s hard to foul it up as badly as some have.

In the last issue, this list included Crywank, which is the name of a solo artist-turned-band from Manchester. The understanding that it’s part of a wilfully crude and bathetic persona only slightly leavens the badness of the name, which is still pretty bad. As such, I figured I could casually dislike it without having to further consider my opinion on the matter – until catching up with a farcical and headscratching saga involving the band Crywank, the name Crywank and the Big Top, the Cardiff venue in which Crywank were booked to play.

The basic gist seems to be that the promoter of the gig, which also featured a band called the Menstrual Cramps, was informed by the venue that South Wales Police had “asked about the event” in relation to these two monikers. As such, the promoter would be required to censor the offending words if they wanted the event to go ahead – and yes, if you’re not quite following, that does mean that the word ‘menstrual’ had been deemed, by someone in a position of authority, to be sufficiently shocking to require removal from public view. The promoter treated this with the disdain it deserved, by transferring the gig to another venue where it went ahead without incident.

Although there appears to be a degree of uncertainty over how much pressure the officer put on the venue about the gig, the notion of anyone seeing an advertisement for a band with ‘menstrual’ in their name (the other does at least have the distinction of containing a recognised swear) and considering this sufficient grounds to raise an objection is almost indescribably pathetic. When people talk of the need for a more diverse police force, you don’t expect them to mean primary school children and people who died during the reign of Queen Victoria.

A less parochial and more hyperbolic columnist might suggest that an incident that implies menstruation is, in itself, obscene is symptomatic of an era in which women’s bodies are increasingly criminalised and turned into battlegrounds.

Correlation not implying causation and all, I think that’d be a stretch, as would be the implication that this absurd interjection from the unnamed officer represented any sort of established policy. Instead, I’m going to note that last year, this venue let me promote a gig for a band called Cuntroaches without anyone saying a word, and then smile serenely to myself.

August’s sparse gig highlights include GUTTER KN*FE and ST*FF MEDS (Cathays Community Centre, Cardiff, Sat 3), LEFTOVER CR*CK and PIZZATR*MP (The Globe, Tue 6), PR*M (The Moon, Thurs 8), SK*GSS (Clwb Ifor Bach, Tue 13), H*N OGLEDD (Cinema & Co, Swansea, Fri 16), various h*rdcore and metal bands including B*LLKICK and S*RE TEETH (Moon, Sat 17) and J MCFAR*ANE’S REALITY GUEST (Moon, Thurs 22). NOEL GARDNER

live review We love

Glastonbarry *****

Another year of brilliant bands at the UK’s largest tribute festival. The sun was shining, the music blaring and the good times carried on all weekend.

Highlights were Rolling Stones, Queen, and the outdoor stage. This year saw a bigger site and huge circus tent, with a capacity of over 6,000 happy revellers, GlastonBarry did it again!

EARLYBIRD TICKETS now on sale for Glastonbarry 2020 on July 25th & 26th www.glastonbarry.com Weekend Pass - £34 / VIP Pass - £60

books

BOOK OF THE MONTH

BROTHERS IN ARMS Geraint Jones (Pan MacMillan)

Any military book written by someone who has experienced war first-hand, and especially if that someone were an ordinary soldier, will always have that extra edge to it, along with tons of kudos. Don’t get this writer wrong; there are many great examples of books written by high-ranking officers, but it’s the infantryman, at the bottom of the ranking structure and hierarchy most worth hearing out. He or she is the person on the ground and in the battlefield, whilst high-ranking officers seldom are.

Geraint Jones was an infantryman in the Royal Welsh before he left the army. Full of banter and army terminology (four-letter swear words aplenty), Brothers In Arms has many raw details of what it’s like to be on an operational tour in Afghanistan and Iraq.

It then continues onto the damage that war wreaks upon those that serve there.

More often than not, whether that be days, weeks, months or years later, it manifests itself as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. This book deals with those dark and desperate times either once the conflict is over, or when the army career is, and normal life resumes as a civilian.

Brothers In Arms is not for the faint of heart, but don’t let that put you off. One can hope that the main thing which does put anyone off is the thought of war itself, as it is not like playing a video game. Top marks for this book, from one ex-soldier to another.

CARL MARSH Price: £12. Info: www.panmacmillan.com

ELASTIC Johanne Bille, trans. Sherilyn Hellberg (Lolli Editions) This tone of this Danish novel is set from the very first page, quickly capturing the open-minded reader with images that raise intimate questions about female sexuality.

Alice, a brilliantly honest main character, narrates the novel in a uniquely fragmented style. Her use of time lapse and lack of defined chapters, although slightly confusing at first, certainly maintains interest. It is as if we are following her thought process as it unfolds. When Alice’s partner Simon travels to Vietnam for six months, the long distance proves to be a test for both of them. While her partner is away Alice is transformed by her experiences with Mathilde and Alexander, who are in an open relationship with one another. Johanne Bille uses creative imagery that is sometimes disturbing, but always poetic. JG Price: £14. Info: www.lollieditions.com THE RECOVERY LETTERS Edited by James Withey and Olivia Sagan (Jessica Kingsley Publishers) The Recovery Letters is a unique reversal of the many selfhelp books available. Editors Withey and Sagan bravely share with readers a series of letters, written by fellow sufferers of mental illness and depression who have since recovered. It provokes an enormous sense of relief that you are not alone.

The letters describe depression and anxiety in a way only people who are going through it can relate to. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, but rather the reassurance that depression is a phase and can be beaten in due time. It gives readers a sigh of relief as the common use of medication and therapy is brought to the surface as a tool for healing. Highly recommended for everyone going through a tough time. JA Price: £9.99. Info: therecoveryletters.com BUZZ 48

LITTLE ZINNOBERS Elena Chizhova, trans. Carol Ermakova (Glagoslav) A touching, acutely funny study of a Khruschev-era schoolroom, and a delicate psychological portrait of a gifted teacher haunted by her own anachronistic relationship with her country and her students. A woman seemingly out of place teaching children, F. nevertheless inspires devotion from her pupils. The translation makes an admirable effort at appropriating what is clearly a distinctive voice. There are passages however where the translator could have taken further liberties, clipping sentences where the format of the original has rendered them repetitive. Instead, distinctively British idioms creep their way jarringly in to an otherwise explicitly Russian narrative. The book also comes with a lengthy and informative afterword providing a background on Chizhova herself, the Soviet Union, Shakespeare in Russia and the ETA Hoffman story from which the title is derived. JM Price: £17.99. Info: www.glagoslav.com THE NOWHERE MAN Kamala Markandaya (Small Axes) A lost classic finally getting the attention it deserves. First published in 1972, The Nowhere Man unpicks the racial tensions prevalent in 1970s Britain; it is now being re-published by Small Axes, and deservedly so.

As Monica Ali says in her blurb, Markandaya’s themes include “displacement, alienation, and the scapegoating of immigrants”.

Sound familiar? In our current Johnsonian climate, the novel is more relevant than ever, taking on an eerie prescience as it describes its protagonist, Srinivas, being hounded by a misguided, narrow-minded man directing his anger in the wrong direction. Again, sound familiar?

The book is beautifully written, full of sharp, biting prose.

A copy should be posted through every letterbox in the country. What a writer. JR Price: £10.99. Info: www.hoperoadpublishing.com

PLASTIC EMOTIONS Shiromi Pinto (Influx Press) Like threads of a gorgeous sari, Shiromi Pinto weaves fact and fiction to tell the largely unknown story of Minnette de Silva. Pinto narrates de Silva’s life, from her friendship and relationship with Swiss architect Le Corbusier; to her journey back to Sri Lanka. The novel portrays de Silva as a passionate, confident young woman, driven largely by her love of her craft. Aware of her place as one of the first South Asian woman architects in London, and her father’s wish for her to return, it is a struggle for her to overcome her insecurities. Through the use of vivid and descriptive language, Pinto expertly tells the story of one of the “forgotten feminist” icons of the 20th century. Similarly, she paints equally layered portraits of other characters: the pompous yet unexpectedly gentle Le Corbusier, Minnette’s supportive high society parents, and her close friend Mimi. JaS Price: £9.99. Info: www.influxpress.com THEN SHE VANISHES Claire Douglas (Penguin) One quiet March morning, the peaceful seaside town of Tilby near Bristol is ripped apart by the double murder of a seemingly harmless man and his elderly mother, followed by the attempted suicide of the shooter. But things aren’t always what they seem to be. Disgraced journalist Jessica Fox relocates to Bristol where she spent her youth, after being involved in phone hacking at a London daily. Nobody but a bi-weekly local rag would employ her. But because of her history with the shooter, she becomes embroiled in the case rather closer than she might wish. Is an exclusive worth dying for?

This one is full of plot twists and turns and moments, where whatever the reader believes is proved totally wrong. A real rollercoaster of a thriller which I found genuinely hard to put down. MTi Price: £7.99. Info: www.penguin.co.uk

RIDERS READY Summer is most definitely here and the holidays are in full swing. Cycling is good for you, loads of fun and creates next to no pollution. Here, then, is a selection of useful accessories that will help you enjoy your trips even more.

Puncture Kit

Eco Lube

Inevitably, at some point you will get a puncture and it’s a good idea to be prepared for that moment. Repairing your inner tube is much more sustainable than discarding and using a new one, and very easy too. If you’re into the retro look, Recycle And Bicycle have a range of original puncture repair tins from the 1950s onwards. Luckily, they contain new puncture kits.

Retro Puncture Repair Tins & Kits – £9 www.recycleandbicycle.co.uk

Water Bottle

Looking after your bike will make it easier to ride. Lubricating the chain will allow it to run through the cogs and gears smoothly with least resistance.

Traditionally, lubricants were made from oil-based substances but there are a new breed of lube producers that are petrochemical free and use plant-based, water-soluble solutions.

Bike Wet Lube – £5.99 sleekcleancare.co.uk

Lock

It’s important to keep hydrated, but unfortunately most water bottles are made from plastic. If you want to be sustainable, however, Decathlon stock a stainless steel bottle and uses a BPA-free lid which will fit into standard water bottle cages and last you many years.

Elite Syssa Stainless Steel Bottle – £5.99 www.decathlon.co.uk

Investing in a good quality lock will mean your bike will be harder to steal and insured by the lock company if it does get taken.

The clever people at Litelok have developed a lightweight product that has the same security rating as the traditional D-lock. It comes in various sizes, including several that can be worn around your waist – so make sure you don’t lose the key.

Litelok Silver – £69.99 www.litelok.com

DIY

Get exploring

Komoot is an exploring app that is perfect for outdoor adventures, especially cycling: you can plan, save and share routes with friends. It functions offline, too, as data is saved to the device. It works with many devices and you can purchase a single region for a one-off trip or, if you want to use it everywhere, buy them all.

Single region – £3.99; complete package – £29.99 www.komoot.com

Bikes are relatively easy to fix once you know how, and investing in a book to teach you how will avoid the need to replace or pay for someone to do it, saving you lots of money. Chris Sidwell’s Bike Repair Manual is full of useful tips and great illustrations to help you understand the anatomy of your bike.

Bike Repair Manual – £9.18 www.amazon.co.uk

Cycle bag

The longer your outing, the more you’ll want to take with you. Consider this waterproof bag that fits in the triangle of the bike frame and will fit your phone, tools, snacks, raincoat and so forth.

Deuter Triangle Bag – £15.99 www.wiggle.co.uk

Phone case

Have a road map handy with a phone mount on your handle bars to follow a map or app like Komoot. Toppeak do a range of very sturdy waterproof cases which protects your phone in all weather conditions. They have several choices of mounting, including the option to use your phone in landscape mode.

Topeak RideCase & mount – £39.99 www.tredz.co.uk

BUZZ 49

WELSH VEGAN FESTIVAL

Farplace Animal Rescue’s annual festival brings together vegans and animal rights activists from across the country for a day of discussion and cruelty-free products, including food. Cardiff’s Tramshed venue will host a number of stalls, showcasing the likes of Bute Island Foods’ Sheese, The Mighty Society’s dairy-free milk alternatives and Savage Cabbage’s premium health products, as well as talks from the makers of eye-opening animal rights documentaries including Cowspiracy and Speciesism.

Tramshed, Cardiff, Sat 3 Aug. Admission: £3.

Info: www.welshveganfestival.com

THE SCIENCE OF BARBECUE Nothing signals the beginning of British summertime more than an alfresco supper of charcoaled (yet somehow also raw) sausages. Elouise Hobbs looks at the biology behind the BBQ. Around for thousands of years, the barbeque has evolved from an easy way to cook large pieces of meat to a summertime event, which encompasses socialising, drinking and gathering around to eat together. Originally from the Spanish word {barbacoa}, traditional barbeques involved placing a large quantity of meat – frequently a whole lamb – in a pot above a hole in the ground. Coal would be added, and it would be set on fire to cook.

Then, the juices from the meat would be used to make a broth.

Since then, a lot has changed. Range grills have increased in popularity, permanent barbeques have become a fixture in gardens and parks across the UK and although many people still use coals to cook with, gas is also very popular. Yet, despite the innovations, the basic idea behind barbequing food has remained essentially the same – making it difficult to deny there is something special about the barbequing method that has allowed it to stand the test of time, and emerge as a superior way to cook in the summertime.

Is it the happy memories, the alcohol or nostalgia that makes barbecue food taste so universally amazing? No. It’s good old chemical reactions. When we taste different foods, we use all our senses, from sight to smell, touch to taste. The act of cooking food on a barbecue gives us a sensory overload that is irresistible. The smells from the barbeque activate the saliva glands in your mouth, making your mouth start to water.

Different to traditional cooking, the intensity of the heat of the barbecue allows the outside of the meat BUZZ 50

to slightly burn, creating a crisp outer bite. This distinct reaction – known as the Maillard reaction – is the chemical reaction between amino acids and sugars that gives browned food its distinctive flavour and helps to develop and deepen the flavours.

Similarly, when cooking vegetables over the heat of the barbecue, it begins a caramelisation process. This is where the sugar in the vegetables oxidise, turning the outside a golden brown. This creates a unique flavour usually associated with a rich, nutty aroma that is usually connected to barbeque cooking.

As barbeques use consistent heat over time to cook food, it helps to create distinctive reactions that only usually occur when slow cooking. This is especially evident when cooking meat with high-fat content. The fat inside the meat melts when heated and helps to create an amazingly rich flavour and smooth taste that mimics the texture of butter or chocolate. That’s why marbled meat is so highly valued.

A barbecue, unlike a grill, heats food from below.

With meat, this causes the melted fat to slowly drip onto the hot coals. As the fat burns, this causes the barbeque to create more smoke, which then rises up, enveloping the meat. This helps the meat to develop a richer aroma and taste. And, as the smoke has such a long-lasting flavour, it helps to prolong the flavour release, creating a stronger, fuller aftertaste.

So next time that you get the barbecue out for summer, remember that it is not only your amazing cooking abilities that bring that burger from packet to plate – rather, a rich history of cooking, and chemical reactions that create a quintessential summer meal.

PEMBROKESHIRE COUNTY SHOW

The biggest three-day agricultural show in Wales is back with another extensive lineup of attractions, events and exhibits, putting the best of Welsh farming on display. The Castell Howell Food Marquee is hosting more trade stands than ever, while this year’s newly designed main arena with a viewing gallery and bar is set to be quite a crowd-pleaser.

Access for families, too, is even better this year, with a dedicated Free Play Zone and the first Pembrokeshire Little Farmers’ marquee to get the kids involved.

Pembrokeshire County Showground, Haverfordwest, Tue 13-Thurs 15 Aug. Admission: from £6. Info: 01437 764331 / www.pembsshow.org

Pic: Andrea Vail

OF THE BEST ABERGAVENNY Home to one of the most popular food festivals in the UK and a Michelin-starred restaurant in The Walnut Tree, Abergavenny punches above its weight on Wales’ foodie scene. Here’s Amy Watts with a quick tour.

BEAN & BREAD

FLOWERY OATS Words Alison Powell Wake up and enjoy the flavours of Morocco with a breakfast combining orange blossom flower water, pistachios and rose petals. You may not be on holiday, but you can still enjoy that feeling of being far away…

An independent coffee shop with a menu based on locally sourced ingredients which caters to vegan and gluten free diets. Bean & Bread is beautifully decorated, warm and inviting, and their speciality coffee, roasted in Wales, is to die for. Try one of their gourmet toasts, plant-based smoothies or their wildly popular cronuts.

Lion Street, Abergavenny 07947 215806 / www.beanandbread.co.uk

INGREDIENTS Serves one

THE ANGEL HOTEL

Not just a four-star hotel, The Angel also boasts some exceptional food with fresh and local ingredients at the core of their philosophy. Special occasions call for a truly memorable dining experience at the Oak Room, while the Foxhunter Bar is the perfect destination for stylish cocktails and an equally tasty bar menu. Also worth visiting is its sister property, Michelin-starred restaurant The Walnut Tree.

Cross Street, Abergavenny 01873 857121 / www.angelabergavenny.com

HUMMINGBIRD

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4 dessert spoonfuls of oats (use rolled for a smoother texture or jumbo for a little crunch)

•

4 heaped dessert spoonfuls of plain Greek yogurt

•

Teaspoon of orange blossom flower water

•

20g of pistachios

•

3 or 4 strawberries, depending on size

•

Heaped teaspoon of dried rose petals

HOW TO 1. Spoon the oats in to a bowl.

Just outside of Abergavenny, Hummingbird is a charming coffee and gift shop with breathtaking interiors and a wonderful collection of artisanal products and homeware.

The menu is simple, comforting and delicious, with light lunches, home-made cakes and even afternoon tea. You can also find local produce such as Blaenavon Cheeses and Usk River Chutneys in the gift shop.

Llanover Business Centre 01873 881044 / www.hummingbirdcoffeeshop.com

2. Add the orange blossom flower water. Mix it in. It won’t be enough to entirely coat the oats, but move it around a bit.

CASA BIANCA

4. Crush the pistachios. I do this by putting them on a board, covering loosely with cling film and bashing them to the desired consistency with the end of a rolling pin. Mind your fingers. If you have a bit of a day ahead of you, this can be quite therapeutic first thing in the morning!

A newly opened local Italian with deliciously hearty food and a fantastic selection of wines and liqueurs. The family-run restaurant has already built a strong base of customers thanks to its delightful service, cosy atmosphere and generous portions – as is the Italian way.

Frogmore Street, Abergavenny 01873 737744 / www.casabianca.co.uk

THE ART SHOP & CHAPEL

Tucked away beneath a 19th century chapel, it would be easy to miss this hidden treasure. The chapel kitchen serves up a seriously unique and creative menu, providing a dining experience in the most casual of settings. All recipes are produced seasonally with real thought and care put behind them, and you can browse through the art shop while waiting for your food to arrive.

Market Street, Abergavenny 01873 736430 / http://artshopandgallery.co.uk

3. Add the yogurt, stir it around so that all of the oats are coated and then set it aside for half an hour to allow it to soak in and soften.

5. Wash and chop the strawberries into small pieces, removing and discarding the green leafy bits. Stir into the oats and yogurt mix.

6. S prinkle over the crushed pistachios and rose petals and dig in. @ASPwriter

BUZZ 51

Pic: Anita Austvika

AUGUST FOODIE FOCUS Pop-ups, parties and paprika-pimped prawns abound in the events Elouise Hobbs has picked out this time around..

Summer Social, Mon Usk Tapas & Wine Bar, Newport, Tue 6 Aug This summertime event combines traditional Mediterranean food and drinks with great company to help create an unforgettable evening. Hosted in Mon Usk, a tapas restaurant overlooking the riverfront, their menu, inspired by the sea and old Newport shipping trade routes, features lots of seafood and twists on Mediterranean dishes. These include the mussels sharer, whitebait and gambas alajillo – garlic prawns sauteed with kale, paprika and chilli – alongside other specialities such as Galician chickpeas, and albondigas, Spanishstyle meatballs made from Welsh beef.

Tickets: £5 deposit per head, deducted from your bill on the night. Info: www.eventbrite.co.uk

Nanteos Afternoon Tea Party, Plas Nanteos Mansion, Rhydyfelin, Aberystwyth, Sun 18 Aug First introduced to English high society by Anna, the seventh Duchess Of Bedford, in 1840, afternoon tea is now employed to celebrate everything from birthdays to hen parties.

Nanteos Mansion in Rhydyfelin seems the perfect setting for a classic afternoon tea, both in Edwardian times and today. Head chef Gerwyn Jones has masterminded a range of afternoon teas – from traditional to Welsh, Cardigan Bay Seafood to “Gentleman’s” and “bubbles”. If you fancy making a day if it, everyone can enjoy a day out in the Nanteos Estate, with free access to the Labyrinth walled garden, face painting and music.

Tickets: £15/free under-12s. Info: www.nanteos.com

Tidy Takeover, Crafty Devil’s Cellar, Penarth, Wed 14 Aug Over the past year, Crafty Devil has opened two new bars in Cardiff and Penarth, with the latter steadily growing in popularity. In August, they are hoping to solidify their reputation as a noteworthy independent with a special popup from The Tidy Kitchen Co. The seasonal menu looks to celebrate fresh ingredients, as well as showcasing variations on Welsh favourites.

For starters, diners can expect to enjoy Welsh garden toasts – an innovative take on bruschetta, substituting tomatoes for beetroot, podded peas and pickled courgette. The main will feature crusted chicken leg and the everpopular cauliflower steak. And, for dessert, an apple tart is spruced up with cardamon, toffee, and pear crisp.

Tickets: £35. Info: www.eventbrite.co.uk

Temptingly Thai, The Culinary Cottage, Pandy, Abergavenny, Sat 31 Aug The Culinary Cottage has established itself as a provider of great courses - whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home-cook, and this summer one-day course is set to focus on how to create the aromatic flavours of Thailand at home. Beginning with an informal breakfast, participants will move onto prep work for dinner, as well as making a two-course lunch to enjoy on the day. In the morning, participants will have the opportunity to discuss the menus they will be making throughout the day and how to incorporate salty, hot, sour and sweet flavours into all their dishes. There’ll also be a portfolio of recipes, menu suggestions and tips and hints to take home.

Prices: from £85.

Info: www.theculinarycottage.co.uk

BUZZ 52

THE ALCHEMIST: COCKTAIL REVIEW

As a young man from a small town in the rolling hills of Yorkshire, I spent my teenage years in old-fashioned boozers with sturdy oak doors, where men in thick coats drank pints of dark ale and the closest thing to a cocktail was a lager and lime. Perhaps then, when I entered The Alchemist, Cardiff’s latest premier cocktail lounge, I was met with a sense of in trepidation; I was entering the unknown.

The Alchemist does not disappoint those who want a show with their drink. One, She’s Electric, features a foam charged with a voltmeter, while the Red Dead Zombie billows smoke like something from a fifties B-movie.

There is substance in the style as well.

The foam on the former actually tingles the tongue in the way that will be familiar to anyone who licked a battery as a child (in a pleasant way). And the latter is a well-layered long drink, where one can taste the subtleties of the alcohol.

Even the classics have a twist on them.

The Pina Colada is a great example of this, which still tastes as vibrant and fresh as you’d expect it to. The Alchemist also offers what they describe as “Augmented Reality Cocktails”, where the drinker downloads an app and points their cameraphone at their drink. They are rewarded with an animation on the screen that dances for a few seconds.

Compared to the rest of the menu, these seem to fall flat.

Still, I fo und the Alchemist to be more than just the photo-op venue I expected, with a varied range of impressive drinks and bar snacks on the menu. A place to get slightly merry and feel stylish while you’re doing it.

JAKE ANDREWS The Alchemist, 117 St Mary Street, Cardiff.

Info: www.thealchemist.uk.com

RoaRing TWEnTiES 2 6 . 1 0 . 2 0 1 9

food ouTlET

STallS

per perso n

PRoSEcco on aRRival

02920 107 050 call t o b o o k o r v is it

WWW.ExchangEhoTElcaRdiff.co.uk

THE COCONUT TREE

Mill Lane, Cardiff. 029 2034 3266 / www.thecoconut-tree.com/cardiff Food **** Atmosphere *** Scholars throughout history have pondered how many angels can dance on the head of a pin. At Buzz, we ask ourselves the far more relevant question of how many branches a chain restaurant can have before we forget about reviewing it.

The point being that there’s no correct answer: these are hard times for multilocation food establishments in the UK, especially ones which took advantage of cheap(er) rents a decade ago, but that doesn’t mean that any expansion is foolhardy by definition, or that they’ll serve nailed-on humdrummery. The Coconut Tree, which originated in Cheltenham circa 2016 and has just opened its fifth outlet in Cardiff, certainly doesn’t.

Their cuisine is Sri Lankan in origin, based around small plates, and wears its informality like an outsized medallion. The Coconut Tree website includes a list of things one should expect, including music played at appreciable volume (in this case a classic rap playlist, so I hope other diners had as much tolerance as me for the fruitier lines of DMX’s Party Up) and rolls of kitchen towel instead of napkins.

But for this advance warning, I’d have imagined these to have been left on the table by a recently clocked-off builder: this branch has been open a week when we visit, and it’s safe to assume they rushed to meet that deadline, as the décor and fittings are, shall we say, rough around the edges. (Assuming, equally, it’ll be tidier by the time you read this.)

It’s easy to shrug off, partly because of their self-styled air and partly because the food is very good. There’s about 30 dishes, priced from £2.50-£8: you’d be catered for well as a vegan (bonchi baduma, green beans with red chillies, fulfil the reviewer’s belief that these legumes should barely be shown to the water) or a veggie (the ‘Cheesy Colombo’ is a bowl of fried cheese cubes with an extremely, but not excessively, shouty sauce; they should be a ubiquitous drunk takeaway item). You’d however be foregoing the battered cuttlefish, which telegraphs its nautical tang and is draped in caramelised onions; and the squid and prawn curry, impressively unrubbery even if the sauce isn’t enhanced by additions of desiccated veg.

Star player of the dining table is its second cheapest addition, an egg hopper: a coconut milk pancake adorned with chutneys and a fried egg in the centre. You roll it up, pick it up and inhale it quicksharp. It’s glorious, the dosa’s more worldly cousin, and I could have eaten several servings. As it is, I find room for a dessert of battered banana pieces with coconut icecream, and may or may not have drank nearly all of a rum cocktail served in a jug shaped like an elephant and intended for multiple persons. As uncouth behaviour goes, it doesn’t seem out of place in the Coconut Tree, and I hope both the market and the mystical quality threshold can sustain more of these places opening.

NOEL GARDNER

BANN THAI SMILE

145 Cowbridge Road East, Cardiff. Info: 029 2023 3945 / facebook.com/ bannthaismile Food *** Atmosphere **** If you’re still mourning the loss of the Thai House on Guildford Crescent, Cardiff does have a small coterie of other options – and Bann Thai Smile is a welcome addition. Near the start of Cowbridge Road East, it’s close enough to the city centre to make it easily accessible; inside, the décor is smart and elegant without being too showy, whilst the service is consummately professional.

The food itself generally sticks to what you might expect of Thai food in the UK – the usual mix of curries, noodles and rice, with plentiful options for both carnivores and herbivores. What separates Bann Thai Smile is the quality of the cooking itself.

For starters, I and my partner ordered chicken and prawn dumplings and vegetarian spring rolls (about £5 each). The presentation of the latter was seriously impressive; the salad side included carrots cut into the shape of an origami-esque swan, beautiful enough that we felt guilty about eating it. The dishes themselves were great – the spring rolls crunchy and succulent, the dumplings freshly steamed, with a great melt-in-mouth texture.

For the mains, things kicked up a notch. The choices this time were prawn pad thai and the Thai Smile special with beef (£10.95 each). The former was chosen on the basis that a standard food such as this is a good test of a restaurant’s quality, and it duly delivers. The noodles not too soggy nor dry, the dashes of bean sprouts, spring onion and crushed peanuts balancing nicely with the prawn.

The Thai Smile special is worth the trip alone, and was the highlight. They’re not saying what’s in the sauce, but suffice to say it really brings out the flavour with the juicy beef and the freshness of the greens and mushrooms mixed in. The sauce itself has some really nice barbeque notes, combined with a sweetness of some sort – it’s hard to put my finger on it, but certainly on the next visit it’ll be the first item my finger lands on in the menu.

FEDOR TOT BUZZ 54

Pic: Gareth Rhys Photography

fitness

Jon Sutton

B O X I N G A N D M E N TA L F I T N E S S Combat sports and martial arts are primarily associated with physical fitness, but could there also be benefits to our mental strength? Jon Sutton investigates.

After dual success at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium in recent years, Anthony Joshua took on Andy Ruiz on Sat 1 June at New York’s Madison Square Garden, in what was expected to be a one-sided demolition by the London man. Instead, however, it was the 6’6” frame of Joshua that came crashing down to earth. The tremors of negativity could be felt right across the Atlantic, where fight fans had spent the 16 years since Lennox Lewis’ retirement longing for another homegrown hero to unify the top division.

Subsequently, social media was a frenzy of blame games and told-you-sos, and British heavyweight hopes had hit a new low. But in the post-fight press conference, the man himself was practical, positive and confident, as he told journalists, “I’m a soldier. Thick and thin, good and bad, always look forward, never back. That’s my mindset.” Showing similar mental toughness last year, Tyson Fury, following in the footsteps of fighters such as Ricky Hatton and Frank Bruno, bounced back from his suicidal behaviour after bravely admitting his battles with clinical depression.

This is a story that is repeated throughout the pages of boxing history. So what it is that Joshua, Fury and many other fighters find within themselves that helps them to overcome such devastating blows to their careers, their reputations and their health?

Welsh boxing champ Kieran Gething is a young man who has suffered very personal tragedy on his way to success, having lost his father in the same year he fought for a Welsh title. Kieran told Buzz: “Boxing teaches you to suffer physical pain but it’s also mental. The winter mornings when you want to stay in bed, the sessions after work when you want to see your family, the years of graft in the amateurs with no money to show for it.

Boxing teaches you to be tough on the inside.”

BUZZ 56

Kieran, like Fury and Joshua, has developed the superhuman mental strength necessary to become a champion – and to navigate life’s toughest obstacles almost entirely through his dedication to boxing. The pain, it seems, has driven the pride. The anger has fed the ambition; the hard times have created the hunger for success.

Further to this, as Buzz was recently told by former world boxing champion (and current world boxing guru) Barry Jones, boxing teaches you discipline that can be applied far beyond the sport itself. “It gives you a structure that will set you up for the rest of your life. The importance of routine, self-control and willingness to keep on learning are lessons from boxing that I’ve taken into all other parts of my life.”

But whilst it seems evident that professional fighters can develop such extreme mental strength through their chosen discipline, can the same be said for the average person who chooses combat sport not as a career path but as a means of personal growth? Droves of people across the UK have headed to white collar boxing gyms in recent years, each testing their skill, their nerve and their chin, in a bid to answer just that question.

High-profile celebrities, too, have sought out the fighting life in order to escape the horrors of mental health failure. In a recent article on the topic, Prince Harry told the Guardian that after his mother’s death, he had felt “very close to a complete breakdown,” going on to say: “During those years I took up boxing, because it’s a really good way of letting out aggression.”

Singer Ellie Goulding spoke in the same article about her use of boxing to overcome anxiety: “It wasn’t about any change in my outward appearance, it was about feeling myself get better and stronger.”

So what do the doctors say? Whilst staying realistic about the dangers involved in taking repeated hits to the head, most maintain a similar belief that combat

Pic: Sacha Wiener

Pic: Sacha Wiener

Nathan Thorley

sports can provide the outlet and the focus necessary to cope with mental health problems. Psychologist Felicity Gibbons told the netdoctor.co.uk website, “Boxing instils a sense of achievement, building confidence and self-esteem.

Classes provide a controlled and safe environment to release any frustration, stress and anger.”

A 2009 study in China dug much deeper into this theory when researchers looked into the benefits of hexagram boxing (a non-contact form of tai chi based on martial arts kicks and punches) on patients with chronic schizophrenia. The results were astounding. The patients were able to go without their schizophrenia medication, relying purely on the natural benefits of this aggressive, but controlled, form of exercise whilst fully controlling their symptoms. The study (from researchgate.net) concluded: “Boxing training can improve effectively the cognition and negative symptoms of chronic schizophrenics.”

Whether you take your lifestyle advice from celebrities or doctors, it seems we could all benefit from the increased camaraderie, the physical exertion and the overall sense of personal achievement found in the boxing gym. But further to these staple benefits found in other sports, boxing also teaches us how to deal with failure, loss and the harsh realities of life. If you find yourself needing to let off some steam this summer, perhaps it’s time to consider swapping pints for punches.

Radio presenter and first-time white collar boxer, Giorgia Rescigno (aka Jo Jo Jayne): It was one of the hardest things I have ever done. But raising money for charity helped me through the seven weeks of training – and so did the feeling I was part of a group of people all going through the same thing. Regardless of how hard it was, I actually started to love the training. I was continuously learning new skills and pushing myself mentally and physically. It was very empowering.

As fight night approached there was never a temptation to pull out. It was having that fight night as an end goal that had kept me focused and motivated to turn up every week! I had to put all my hard work into practice.

Welsh Champion Kieran Gething: The lowest point of my career was in the amateurs in 2014. My father died and I was devastated, but I knew I had to pull myself back up. I pushed hard in the gym that year and boxed my way to the ABA final. Considering the year I’d had, I felt fantastic in that fight. But the judges disagreed. I had to take the loss on the chin

and I learned a lot about boxing and about life in the process.

You have to keep on fighting no matter how hard it gets. So the following year I came back even stronger. I stopped two of my opponents, beat two British champions and finally got my hands on the Welsh title.

Former World Champion Barry Jones: Boxing is littered with stories of triumph through adversity and it is still one of the most working-class sports around. The vast majority of us come from environments where things really don’t come easy. So, in my youth, boxing was so important because it gave me an opportunity to express myself and it gave me a sense of worth and self-belief. And not just when I was winning but also through my losses, as it helped me prove to myself that winning or losing wasn’t always that important, it was how you conducted yourself through success and how you dusted yourself off and came back stronger from a defeat.

Writer-turned-fighter at 40, Josh Rosenblatt: I started fighting for the simple reason that it was the exact opposite of everything I’d ever done. After 33 years as a sensualist and a coward – who found physical exercise ridiculous and violent confrontation repulsive – I was bored. All of a sudden, I wanted the physical life, the strenuous life, the painful life. I wanted to sweat and breathe heavily and fail miserably. I wanted to hurt and to cause hurt.

And most importantly, I wanted to get over my lifelong fear of doing both. Fighting for me was entirely about transformation.

Welsh Boxing Champion Nathan Thorley: My toughest time in boxing was losing in the Commonwealth Games semi-final.

It wasn’t that I got beaten up or anything, just losing in such a big tournament hit me hard mentally. For a few months I was feeling down. I started going out drinking to be social, but it turned into every weekend and I wasn’t getting back to the gym. I was thinking of hanging the gloves up but something inside me said “No! It’s what you’re best at, it’s all you know, stick at it and work hard and it will pay off!”

I have an extremely strong family unit around me who made me see sense. My dad has been there since day one. He said “don’t throw it all away, you’ve worked so hard for it!” My girlfriend Bianca was also there to kick my ass back into the gym, pushing me every step of the way! Before I knew it I was back in the gym making my pro debut in March 2015.

BUZZ 57

Pic:Hefin FAWTrust Pic: Owen

sport

HERE COME THE GIRLS In the wake of the highest-profile Women’s World Cup yet, Tonicha Luffman looks at how women’s football is developing in Wales.

Football has long been seen as a masculine sport, but times are changing. With the Women’s World Cup achieving record-breaking viewing numbers this summer and the return of the club season looming, more and more girls are becoming invested in football. In Wales, governing body the FAW Trust bears responsibility for the development of the game, from grassroots to national level, and specific focus is paid to girls’ participation.

One person who knows the passion of the sport and has been inspired by stars herself is Wales Women’s first-choice goalkeeper, Laura O’Sullivan. She’s played football for the majority of her life, but only joined a club – Cardiff City – aged 19. “There weren’t many opportunities when I was younger,” she recalls. “I think now the game has grown a lot more – there’s more media coverage in the game, which promotes it. There are a lot more opportunities and clubs around that have women’s teams; I think a lot more volunteers have got involved to help encourage this.”

While O’Sullivan had few female idols to look up to as a teenager, now she has the honour of young girls looking up to her. One of her greatest achievements to date was her performance in the World Cup qualifier between England v Wales last year, keeping a clean sheet away against one of the toughest teams in the world.

“The numbers of people who come to watch our games have increased because of the success as a team where we are getting results,” O’Sullivan says. “More girls come to watch and support us and they want to be in the position we are in, so they go and find clubs. We are trying to build a platform for the youth coming through – hopefully the campaign coming up helps us increase this.”

Of its plans to encourage more women to play, the FAW Trust has introduced Huddle, a fun 10-to-12-week programme where girls between five and 12, new to the game, can develop confidence and give them the perfect football experience.

Katy Evans, Football Development Manager for FAW Trust, says: “We are encouraging clubs to offer fun, introductory, games-based activities that cater for new participants. Research suggests once a girl is confident in her environment, she is likely to commit to the activity.”

BUZZ 58

Other ways to get girls involved with the sport are currently being trialled. Evans said: “We are working with Street Games to develop partnerships in areas of deprivation in Wales to bring football to teenage girls. Again, Street Games runs numerous projects across the UK with football being the most popular sport – however, it is predominately boys that access the opportunities.

“The raised profile and success of the recent campaigns have had a huge impact.

The attitudes of the players commenting on the grassroots game and the events we deliver has a bigger impact on the grassroots community than we can ever have alone – some of the players are really on board with our programmes and support as much as they can on social media. We’re confident that the squad players are role models to the next generation and are inspiring in their attitudes both on and off the field.”

The FAW Trust and the Wales Women’s team are inspiring a younger generation of football fans, and have set a participation target of 20,000 girls aged five to 16 playing by 2024. The future is bright and the prospect of seeing Wales play in a Women’s World Cup seems ever more likely.

Wales Women’s team start their Euro 2021 qualifying campaign against Faroe Islands (Thurs 29 Aug, Toshavn) and Northern Ireland (Tue 3 Sept, Rodney Parade, Newport), with Norway and Belarus to come later.

The Welsh Women’s Premier League kicks off on Sun 8 Sept.

Info: www.faw.cymru

Pic: Gemma Evans

Pic: Drew Collins

travel

Pic: Shane Rounce-

Llanberis Pass

GO FOR A RIDE Ain’t no mountain high, ain’t no valley low enough, if you’ve got two wheels and some pedal power. Mair Llewellyn tracks down the best cycling paths in Wales, be they quiet riverside rides or cross-country ordeals.

LÔN LAS CYMRU

Looking for a challenge this summer? The Lôn Las Cymru cycle route allows you to explore over 370 miles of spectacular Welsh scenery, taking you from the very north of Wales right down to our country’s capital. Beginning in the seaside town of Holyhead, you can travel right through the heart of Wales, cycling for over 250 miles down quiet, family-friendly paths. If a view is what you’re after, then this is certainly the route for you. With two national parks, three mountain ranges and a view of the Black Mountains, it’s safe to say you will be spoilt for choice. Once complete, you can either settle down in a Chepstow café, or persist until Cardiff and take a well-earned break.

CARDIFF BAY TRAIL

THREE PARKS TRAIL

Get your picnics ready, because this sweet cycle route will guide you through not one, but three of Wales most beautiful parks. The trail begins in the picturesque Sirhowy Valley Country Park, where you can get lost in the woodlands and bask in the morning sunshine, before travelling along route 47 towards Parc Penallta.

Keep your eyes peeled, because an eight-metre sculpture, The Wheel Of Drams, is lurking near the trail. Settle down and relax before cycling to Parc Taf Bargoed: this hidden gem is the perfect place for adventure, with fishing, canoeing, and a football field available for some more family fun.

MAWDDACH TRAIL, DOLGELLAU

Cardiff Bay is rich in heritage both modern and industrial and is home to the likes of the Wales Millennium Centre and the Norwegian Church. This is a simpler daytime treat, filled with restaurants and adventures for the children, making it a truly beautiful place to cycle. For 6.2 miles, you and your family can cycle happily across the Bay, all the way over to the seaside town of Penarth. A nice and easy ride, albeit also quite popular.

Dolgellau is a historical market town within Snowdonia’s National Park.

Surrounded by breathtaking scenery, you will travel nine and a half miles along a disused railway track, which hugs the Mawddach river all the way to the stunning seaside town of Barmouth. The path remains mostly flat throughout, which means it is perfect for children, families, couples – anyone eager to explore the hidden treasures of Barmouth beach. The town offers an array of activities, including paddle boarding and kayaking.

DRAMWAY, SAUNDERSFOOT

THE TAFF TRAIL

If your children are pleading to be taken to yet another beach this summer, then why don’t you try switching it up? This route allows you to enjoy the beautiful seaside views whilst travelling along the old railway line for four miles. This path is perfect for children as it is mostly flat and remains mainly traffic-free throughout the journey. Afterwards, you can get lost in the beautiful village, dinning in various restaurants dotted around the coast, before lounging on the beach in the evening sun.

A 55-mile-delight at its full length. On this trail, you’ll be guided through some of Wales’ most beautiful scenery and will be able to explore the hidden gems of our country. Follow the Taff river up towards Castell Coch, before being guided towards two towns rich in Welsh industrial heritage, Pontypridd and Merthyr Tydfil.

Be sure to have a quick peek in Merthyr’s Cyfarthfa Castle whilst you’re there!

Afterwards, the trail takes a turn up the mountains, where you will see an array of beautiful waterfalls and reservoirs, before finally arriving at Brecon, the home of the spectacular Brecon Beacons National Park. That said, you don’t have to do the full route – the Cardiff section alone is popular for commuters and leisure riders alike.

BUZZ 59

sport

Xia Brookside - Birmingham

Kenny Williams - Liverpool

Rhea Ripley - Birmingham

N X T, W W E A N D W E L S H W R E S T L I N G As WWE’s NXT UK brand brings its Takeover show to Cardiff, Chris Andrews spoke to NXT UK star Travis Banks and Dragon Pro Wrestling’s Ben Harris about the growth of British grappling.

In terms of professional wrestling, we’ve never had it so good here in Wales, with a number of wrestling promotions all putting out quality product, and plenty of opportunity to get in the ring yourself. But it wasn’t always this way. Sure the 1960s, 70s and early 80s saw Cardiff’s Sophia Gardens regularly hold bouts featuring legends of the British ring such as Kendo Nagasaki, Tibor Szakacs, Big Daddy and Giant Haystacks, but when the roof of the arena collapsed in 1982, so did wrestling in Wales, and a few years later so did British wrestling in general.

People wanted to see the larger-than-life characters emanating from the World Wrestling Federation in America; the growth of Sky in the UK brought that to our screens, yet live wrestling in Wales was dying. The WWF brought their show to Cardiff as part of a European tour in 1994, where Bret Hart defeated his brother Owen to retain the Heavyweight Championship, but it would be years before they would come back. This, though, was the era when the seeds were planted for a lot of future stars. “My favourite wrestlers were Sting, Shawn Michaels and Mick Foley,” recalls current NXTUK star Travis Banks.

In the meantime, we were left to witness tribute act versions of popular WWE stars in leisure centres around South Wales to fill the void. Fellow sufferer Ben Harris from Dragon Pro Wrestling remembers: “For a long time, the UK’s scene looked back heavily to the ‘glory days’ of British wrestling’s heyday, or visiting American talent on occasional visits to Britain.”

Still, we got a glimpse of what could be in 2001, when the short-lived World Wrestling All Stars promotion hit Cardiff and fans witnessed genuine wrestling royalty in the flesh: Bret Hart was back, as was Scott Steiner, Jeff Jarrett and the Road Dogg. In due course, the recently-renamed WWE returned with all the stars in tow, Triple H, Ric Flair and Randy Orton all gracing the Welsh capital. It was glorious – and they’ve been returning every year since, sometimes twice.

Aside from the odd character here or there, there was still limited British presence in wrestling’s upper echelons – but that was about to change. “There was a whole BUZZ 60

generation of new developing wrestlers in the UK adapting the traditions of the past, updating it and making it relevant for the present day,” says Harris. “New companies like Attack! Pro Wrestling, ICW, OTT Wrestling and Progress started making British talent the focus again.”

Accordingly, the WWE have been forced to take a bigger interest in grassroots UK wrestling – which led to the launch of NXT UK, an offshoot of the main NXT brand in the USA, where future WWE superstars learn their trade. Fri 31 Aug and Sat 1 Sept will find NXT UK showcasing their talents in Takeover: Cardiff, where talent that established itself in this city gets to perform on the big stage under the WWE banner. \Says Harris: “With the spotlight focused firmly back on the new wave UK stars, the audience has watched the rise of some of the biggest names on the international wrestling scene today grow from rookies, to the ring, to the national and international stage.”

Sure to be on the bill are Mark Andrews, Wild Boar and Flash Morgan Webster, who were all nurtured here in Wales with Dragon Pro Wrestling – as was Travis Banks, who wrestled here numerous times for Attack!, and fondly recalls wrestling in Cardiff in 2016. “The first match that got me noticed on the UK independent scene was actually me versus Tyler Bate at Walkabout.”

With his imminent return to Cardiff, what can a casual WWE fan expect from this show? “We are up for it, the crowd will be up for it and the whole spectacle of the event will be enough to draw even a casual fan in.”

NXT UK Takeover: Cardiff, Motorpoint Arena Cardiff, Fri 31 Aug; NXT UK Live Cardiff, Motorpoint Arena Cardiff, Sat 1 Sept. Tickets: £41.80 Fri 31 Aug; from £18 Sat 1 Sept.

Info: 029 2022 4488 / motorpointarenacardiff.co.uk

listings

Inclusion in Buzz listings is free. Send via email (listings@buzzmag.co.uk) or post (220c Cowbridge Road East, Canton, Cardiff CF5 1GY) by the 17th of the previous month. Buzz takes no responsibility for material sent or any errors made after this date.

recommended *–u – repeated

OVER THE BRIDGE Spinning off from our Summer Days Out guide near the front of this issue, here are a couple of very exciting events occurring just beyond that there bridge this August. Of course, depending on where you’re reading Buzz it may well be easier to get to Bristol than (say) Swansea or Carmarthen.

First up, Bristol’s International Balloon Fiesta (Ashton Court Estate, Thurs 8-Sun 11 Aug. Tickets: free; parking £11.70-£27.70. Info: www. bristolballoonfiesta.co.uk) – Europe’s largest annual balloon meeting, offering four days of free family entertainment. It’ll bring an array of events to the city, including balloon tethering, mass hot air balloon lifts, arena entertainment and balloon rides. There will also be a fiesta bandstand throughout the event with performances from local up-and-coming musicians.

As dusk sets on Thursday and Saturday, the sky will be illuminated by a

nightglow, created by 25 hot air balloons, before a firework display. The final day will feature more arena entertainment, before a mass balloon lift will bring the fiesta to a close.

A few weeks after that is the Downs festival (Bristol Downs, Sat 31 Aug + Sun 1 Sept. Tickets: £55/under-13s £15. Info: thedownsbristol.com).

Bristol’s largest music festival returns for its fourth year, bringing music, live performances, art and good food to the city. This year’s lineup includes Ms. Lauryn Hill, Grace Jones and Neneh Cherry on the Saturday, with Madness on the following day.

The Information Stage, which aims to open discussions about issues impacting our society, will also be returning, and will feature keynote speakers such as Charlie Craggs, the founder of Nail Transphobia, as well as a presence by folks such as Extinction Rebellion.

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art ABERYSTWYTH ARTS CENTRE University Of Wales, Aberystwyth. Free. Mon-Sat 10am-8pm. 01970 621903 / www.aber.ac.uk/artscentre Clay Local responses to the recent International Ceramic Festival by schools, colleges and charities (Until Wed 14 Aug) Welsh Illustrators Exhibition celebrating the best published Illustration from Wales, and coinciding with the Welsh Book Of The Year awards here on the opening date. (Until Thurs 22 Aug) Road To Discovery Contemporary examples of work from the seven potteryproducing areas in Uzbekistan.

(Until Mon 26 Aug) Gareth Griffith ‘Trelar’ Paintings from north Wales-based artist who seeks to explore connections between time and place: 1960s Liverpool, 70s Jamaica and his current home in the Ogwen Valley. (From Mon 22 July until Sat 7 Sept) Catrin Davies New works combining paintings and drawings with digital media: landscape paintings converted to animated images. (From Tue 20 Aug until Mon 14 Oct) Ruth Koffer ‘Observations From The Life Room’ Drawings, installation work and film intended to “celebrat[e] the human form, in all its beauty and awkwardness.” (From Sat 31 Aug until Sat 2 Nov) ABERYSTWYTH UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF ART GALLERY Buarth Mawr, Aberystwyth.

Free. Mon-Fri 10am-5pm.

01970 622467 / www.aber. ac.uk Classic/Romantic: Works From The School Of Art Collection Curated by undergraduate students here

who are doing a module titled Curating An Exhibition: Researching, Interpreting, Displaying. (Until Fri 30 Aug) Ailymweld Cymru A’r Mudiadau Modern / Wales And The Modern Movements: Revisited A look back at an exhibition, Wales And The Modern Movements, held here in 1973 and which aimed to interpret 20th century art through the works of artists working in Wales. (Until Fri 30 Aug) ALBANY GALLERY 74b Albany Road, Cardiff.

Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 11am-4pm. Free. 029 2048 7158 / www.albanygallery. com Summer Exhibition A tradition as regular as the coming of summer itself, this will feature over 50 artists both old and new, including Donald McIntyre, Mike Jones, Tim Fudge, David Barnes, Theo Crutchley-Mack, Sol Whiteside and Emily Powell. (Until Sat 17 Aug) Martin Llewellyn Welsh painter working in the impasto style with a palette knife. (From Thurs 22 Aug until Sat 14 Sept) THE ANDREW BUCHAN 29 Albany Road, Cardiff.

029 2021 2509 / facebook. com/andrewbuchanbar Reid Allen ‘Yallah’ Subtitled ‘Exploring Palestine Through Skateboarding’, this exhibition ties into a book of the same name by Allen, a Cardiff-based skater/photographer who travelled to Palestine last year to teach youths there how to skate. (Until Mon 30 Sept) ANDREW LAMONT GALLERY (THEATR BRYCHEINIOG) Canal Wharf, Brecon. Open Mon-Fri 10am-5pm. Free.

01874 611622 / enquiries@ brycheiniog.co.uk / www.

brycheiniog.co.uk Andrew Morton / Brecon Jazz Club ‘...And All The Jazz’ Paintings (by Morton, no relation to the royal biographer) and photography (by BJC) that capture the atmosphere and ‘the faces of jazz’ from the 2018 Brecon Jazz Festival concerts. (Until Sun 1 Sept) ARCADECAMPFA Queens Arcade, off Queen Street, Cardiff. Usually open Wed-Sat 12.30-5.30pm. arcade-campfa.org Ric Bower, Nástio Mosquito & Kelly Schacht ‘The Reverse Panopticon’ Subtitled “a brief introduction to AEI (Aesthetically Enhanced Interrogation)”, this incorporates performance and an installation, and was produced in participation with the Iranian refugee and asylum seeker community in Cardiff.

(Until Sat 24 Aug) Ethan Dodd ‘Gestures’ “New, unseen 2-D work; mirrors, collages, watercolours, sketchbooks, literature and video detailing my ongoing deconstruction of identity within my practice,” in the words of this Cardiff-based artist. (From Fri 2 until Sat 10 Aug) Criw Celf Summer showcase, featuring a mix of ceramics, print, installation and drawing, of work created through this art scheme for young people from across south Wales. (From Fri 16 until Sat 31 Aug) ATTIC GALLERY 37 Pocketts Wharf, Maritime Quarter, Swansea. Tue-Fri 10am-5.30pm, Sat 10am4.30pm. Free. 01792 653387 / www.atticgallery.co.uk Summer Mixed Show Over 40 Welsh artists will show here, with the display regularly changing to reflect the variety.

(Until Fri 20 Sept)

KATE HAYWOOD: TRACES Llantarnam Grange Art Centre, Cwmbran, Sat 3 Aug-Sat 14 Sept Admission: free. Info: 01633 483321 / www.lgac.org.uk Kate Haywood, winner of the Fenton Arts Trust Scholarship and the Future Lights International Ceramics Competion, is bringing her collection, Traces, to Cwmbran this summer. This exhibition, previously showcased in Ruthin and Aberystwyth earlier this year, features detailed porcelain forms which she uses to reimagine forgotten objects, such as an old toy, or to recreate an ancient ritual. Haywood also combines her creations with other materials, such as felt or silver, to add a little softness to her designs, or to help illuminate its form. Traces is part of the Language Of Clay series at this gallery: an ongoing project, curated by Ceri Jones, that celebrates the diversity of accomplished ceramic practice.

BARNABAS ARTS HOUSE New Ruperra Street, Pillgwenlly, Newport. Free.

01633 673739 / barnabasartshouse@ outlook.com / barnabasartshouse.co.uk Ajay Kothawale ‘Emotional Tones’ Goan artist, exhibiting in the UK for the first time, whose paintings reflect the colour and chaos of the Indian street. (Until Sat 7 Sept) BOUNDARY ART 3 Sovereign Quay, Havannah Street, Cardiff.

Tue-Sun 10am-5pm. 029 2048 9869 / www. boundaryart.com Inscape Work by painters Ping Gang Cheng, Daleet Leon, Sarah Spencer and Sky Siouki, plus ceramicist Aaron Davies.

The exhibition is named after a term coined by Victorian poet Gerard Manley and, says the gallery, “conveys the unique inner nature of a person or object as shown in a work of art.” (Throughout August) CHAPTER GALLERY Chapter Arts Centre, Market Road, Canton, Cardiff. Tue, Wed, Sat + Sun 12-6pm; Thurs + Fri 12-8pm. Free. 029 2030 4400 / www.chapter.org Freya Dooley ‘Find Joy In These Scenes Of Fruitless Labours’ Art In The Bar display, a new commission from Cardiff-based artist Dooley produced in collaboration with Sunderland’s Foundation Press. (Until Sun 25 Aug) CRAFT IN THE BAY The Flourish, Lloyd George Avenue, Cardiff. Mon-Sun 10.30am-5.30pm. Free. 029 2048 4611 / www. makersguildinwales.org.uk Michael Flynn Solo exhibition of figurative ceramics, created over the last 15 years,

by Cardiff-based sculptor who takes much of his inspiration from myths and fairytales.

(Until Sun 18 Aug) Verity Pulford North Wales-based artist who draws and creates experimental glass work that investigates the correlation between structures and microstructures within plant and human biology. (Until Sun 18 Aug) CYFARTHFA CASTLE MUSEUM Cyfarthfa Park, Brecon Rd, Merthyr Tydfil. 01685 727371 / museum@ merthyr.gov.uk A Celebration Of Welsh Contemporary Painting The second biennial celebration of contemporary artists working in Wales, with work ranging from oil paintings to street art. (Until Mon 23 Sept) ELYSIUM GALLERY 210 High Street, Swansea.

Wed-Sat 12-5pm. Free. www.elysiumgallery.com Helen Booth ‘Matter’ See Art for more on this exhibition,

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monchrome dot paintings created as a response to the Icelandic landscape. (Until Sat 10 Aug) Kelly Ewing & Jason Gregory ‘Equilibrio’ Recent paintings from two artists – from Londonderry and Tonypandy respectively –who offer very different approaches to the same medium. (Until Sat 10 Aug) Katie Trick ‘Looking Through, Odes To Nowhere’ Figurative and abstract paintings from a Port Talbot-based artist. (Until Sat 10 Aug) Kate Bell ‘Poetics Of Place’ Painter (primarily) and art teacher (of 30 years’ standing) who is based out of the Elysium studios, and whose work here work is concerned with concepts relating landscape to philosophical thought about place and space. (Until Sat 10 Aug) Liam Dunne ‘Rolling With The Punch’ multidisciplinary artist, who works primarily in painting, drawing, stop motion animation and installation, and whose work explores people’s relationship with power and how this manifests in reality. (From Fri 23 Aug until Sat 21 Sept) FFOTOGALLERY 29 Castle Street, Cardiff.

Tue-Sat 11am-5pm. Free.

029 2070 8870 / www. ffotogallery.org Paul John Roberts ‘One Match’ Exhibition tying in with the Homeless World Cup, which runs in nearby Bute Park until Sat 3 Aug (see Events listings), by Welsh photographer Roberts who has captured the progress of the Welsh players in the run-up to the event. This will also be the final exhibition in this location; Ffotogallery is moving to Cathays in September. (Until Sat 10 Aug) FOUNTAIN FINE ART Rhosmaen Street, Llandeilo, Carmarthenshire. Mon-Sat 10.30am-5pm. Free. www. fountainfineart.com Andrew Douglas-Forbes Solo work depicting Welsh farms, Welsh dressers and flower studies. (Until Sat 10 Aug) Summer Group Exhibition New mixed discipline work from regular gallery artists here. (From Sat 17 until Sat 31 Aug) FUTURES GALLERY / ORIEL GALLERY Pierhead Building / Senedd, Cardiff Bay. Daily 10.30am4pm. Free. 0845 0105500 / www.pierhead.org Jack K Neale ‘Schooners From Brittany In Cardiff Docks’ Paintings given a literal title, apparently inspired by the views Neale was afforded as an office worker near the West Bute Dock. (From Wed 7 Aug until Tue 24 Sept) Drawn Together Results of a national, participatory arts project that invited everybody to take a few moments out of their day to draw something they could see. (From Mon 12 until Fri 30 Aug)

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G39 Oxford Street, Roath, Cardiff. Saturdays 11am5.30pm. Free. 029 2047 3633 / post@g39.org Sprung Spring Work based on the overlapping concepts of “failure, exposure and humour” from artists Tim Bromage, Philippa Brown, Marcos Chaves, Rebecca Gould, George Manson and Night Shift International – working various in mediums including drawing, film and puppetry. Talks and Performances by Bromage, Sian Robinson Davies, Mel Brimfield will also feature.

(From Fri 9 Aug until Sat 12 Oct) Y GALERI, CAERFFILI Lower Ground Floor, The Visit Caerphilly Centre, The Twyn, Caerphilly. Tue-Sat 10am-5pm. Free. 029 2132 2570 / www.ygalericaerffili. co.uk Summer Show Evolving showcase of artwork by established and emerging Welsh artists and makers.

(Until Sat 3 Aug) Prints Of Wales Linoprints and collographs inspired by the Welsh landscape, courtesy of artists Georgina Brownlow, Katherine Jones, Michelle Jones, Bronwen Thomas, Eleanor Whiteman and Lee Wright. (From Tue 13 Aug until Sat 14 Sept) THE GATE Keppoch Street, Roath, Cardiff. Mon-Sat 10am9pm. Free. 029 2048 3344 / www.thegate.org.uk Lynsey Reeves ‘10,000 Collars’ Colour-heavy paintings in acrylic inks, liquitex acrylic paint, acrylic pens and oil pastels – based, in Reeves’ words, on “a year-long project to raise awareness of the thousands of dogs killed each year at the annual Yulin Festival in China”. (From Thurs 8 Aug until Sat 14 Sept) GLYNN VIVIAN ART GALLERY Alexandra Rd, Swansea.

Tue-Sun 10am-5pm. Free.

01792 516900 / www. swansea.gov.uk/ glynnvivian Hand Drawn Action Packed See Art for more on this drawing-based show featuring 10 artists of renown: Marcel Dzama, Marcel van Eeden, Inci Eviner, Yun-Fei Ji, William Kentridge, Nalini Malani, Otobong Nkanga, Raymond Pettibon, Amy Sillman and Rinus Van de Velde. (Until Sun 1 Sept) Frances Richards: An Artist Apart Frances, wife of Ceri Richards, is represented here in the form of her wartime-era embroidery-collages and unseen drawings and monotypes, plus figurative and flower paintings from her later years. (Until Sun 1 Sept) KING STREET GALLERY 33 King Street, Carmarthen. Free. 01267 220121 /

gallery@kingstreetgallery. co.uk The Graduate Show Degree work by six graduates of the Carmarthen School Of Art: Megan Scales, Alex Baitup, Mark Dutton, Kelly Richards, Stephen Treharne and Charlotte Voaden. (Until Wed 7 Aug) LLANTARNAM GRANGE ARTS CENTRE St. David’s Rd, Cwmbran, Torfaen. Mon-Sat 10am5pm. Free. 01633 483321 / www.lgac.org.uk Kate Haywood ‘Traces’ An exhibition in the Language Of Clay series here, about which the gallery say, “Her objects are made at the edge of her consciousness, in the place where fiction and truth collide.” (From Sat 3 Aug until Sun 14 Sept) Criw Celf South East Criw Celf is a young person’s art scheme in Wales, and some of the results of its work in this region will be shown in two sections here.

The cafe gallery/foyer will feature work by participants aged 10-13, created over a week, while Gallery 3 features work created under the tutelage of ceramic artist Ann Gibbs.

(From Sat 3 Aug until Sun 14 Sept) Carolyn Tripp Craft showcase from a classically trained ceramic artist based in south London. (From Sat 3 Aug until Sun 14 Sept) Zsuzsi Morrison Jewellery showcase featuring work made using traditional enamelling techniques. (From Sat 3 Aug until Sun 14 Sept) M.A.D.E. GALLERY 41 Lochaber St, Cardiff.

Wed-Sat 10am-6pm. Free.

029 2047 3373 / facebook. com/cardiffmade Hot-House Residency Six recent graduates occupy the whole of this building as part of a scheme in conjunction with TactileBosch to work towards a collaborative presentation in September.

(Throughout August) MARTIN TINNEY GALLERY 18 St Andrew’s Crescent, Cardiff. Mon-Fri 10am6pm, Sat 10am-5pm. Free.

029 2064 1411 / mtg@ artwales.com Summer Selection Changing exhibition by leading Welsh artists including Kyffin Williams, Peter Prendergast, Ceri Richards, Harry Holland, Shani Rhys James and Kevin Sinnott. (Until Thurs 8 Aug) Charles Burton Ninetieth birthday exhibition, and his first of any sort since 2005, for a Treherbert-born painter who made his name in the late 1940s as part of the Rhondda Group alongside Ernie Zobole and Glyn Morgan. (From Thurs 15 until Thurs 29 Aug) MISSION GALLERY Gloucester Place, Swansea.

Tue-Sun 11am-5pm. Free.

01792 652016 / www. missiongallery.co.uk Criw Celf West Showcase

exhibition in the [...] space, featuring work created in this gallery’s flagship education programme by kids aged 9-19.

(Until Sat 3 Aug) Migrations Work in the [...] space featuring contemporary dance films from a company who bring international contemporary dance and installations to Wales. (Until Fri 16 Aug) Beverly Bell-Hughes Maker In Focus show from an artist who uses flattened coils of clay into which other materials are added. (Until Sat 14 Sept) Jane Phillips Award Graduate Showcase Selections from 2019 graduate exhibitions across south Wales, plus work by other new designers. Showing in the main gallery and the [...] space. (From Sat 17 Aug until Sat 7 Sept) MUSEUM OF CARDIFF (FORMERLY CARDIFF STORY) The Old Library, The Hayes, Cardiff. Daily 10am-4pm.

Free. 029 2034 6214 / cardiffstory@cardiff.gov.uk Cardiff’s South Wales Miners’ Galas Find out about these galas, the first of which was held in Cardiff in 1953, and see original archive programmes. (Until Sun 1 Sept) Cardiff’s Sound City Lab exhibition highlighting the different sounds and styles of music that are important to Cardiff’s communities. (Until Sun 2 Feb) Memories Of Partition Stories, collected by community members, from people living in Cardiff who witnessed the partition of British India in 1947, or whose family members have passed down their memories of that time. (From Sat 10 Aug until Sun 20 Oct) NATIONAL MUSEUM CARDIFF Cathays Park, Cardiff. TueSun 10am-5pm. Free except where noted. 029 2057 3500 / museum.wales/cardiff David Nash ‘Sculpture Through The Seasons’ Important British sculptor with an exhibition marking 50 years of working from the same studio, a chapel in Blaenau Ffestiniog. (Until Sun 1 Sept) Snakes! Price TBC. Family-friendly educational show about, in short, Snakes!

(Until Sun 15 Sept) NATIONAL WATERFRONT MUSEUM Oystermouth Road, Maritime Quarter, Swansea. Daily 10am-5pm.

Free. 029 2057 3600/ museum.wales/swansea Tina Francis ‘The Changing Face Of Mining’ portraits of miners at the East Pit opencast mine at Tairgwaith, one of Wales’ last such operating mines. (Until Sun 1 Sept) Pobl Discover the stories of people who have shaped the way in which this museum has evolved and its role as a community space.

(Until Sun 29 Sept) Andrew Vicari ‘King Of Painters, Painter Of Kings’ Vicari was born and brought up in Port

Talbot and went on to paint some of the most influential figures in modern history; this is a look at how that journey transpired. (Until Sun 3 Nov) NORWEGIAN CHURCH ARTS CENTRE Harbour Drive, Cardiff Bay. Daily 10.30am-4pm. Free.

029 2087 7959 / www. norwegianchurchcardiff. com Judith James Paintings from an artist based just outside Cardiff and who has had a few exhibitions here before.

(Until Sun 4 Aug) ORIEL COFFI 5 High Street, Llanidloes.

Mon-Sat 10am-5.30pm.

Free. 01686 625041 / www. orielcoffi.cymru Sarah Jane Brown Exhibition at this brand new fine art gallery in Pembrokeshire, featuring distinctive landscapes influenced by walking the local coast and working on the sea.

(Throughout August)

ORIEL MYRDDIN Church Lane, Carmarthen.

01267 222775 / www. orielmyrddingallery.co.uk Land Acts Work by five artists – Stefhan Caddick, Rebecca Chesney, Morag Colquhoun, Ella Gibbs and Owen Griffiths – collectively exploring the power of land and contemporary, rural experience. (Until Sat 12 Oct) ORIEL Q The Queens Hall, High Street, Narberth. Wed-Sat 10am-5pm. Free. 01834 869454 / www. orielqnarberth.com Jean Thomas Exhibition of drawing and painting. (From Sat 3 Aug until Fri 13 Sept) The Open Drawer Mixed drawing show running concurrently with Jean Thomas’ exhibition. Thomas, alongside Bonnie Grace, will also be hosting drawing workshops on various dates throughout the exhibitions. (From Sat 3 Aug until Fri 13 Sept)

Natalie Chapman is a portrait painter but lists photographers Nan Goldin and Richard Billingham as her stated influences. In Love You Mum (Volcano Theatre, Swansea, Fri 2-Wed 14 Aug) she examines the beauty spots and warts of family identity.

ORIEL CRIC Beaufort Street, Crickhowell. Mon-Sat 10am5pm, Sun 10am-1pm. Free.

01873 813669.

Summer Exhibition Mixed work from local artists.

(Throughout August) ORIEL DAVIES The Park, Newtown, Powys.

Mon-Sat 10am-5.30pm.

Free. 01686 625041 / enquiries@orieldavies.org Cecile Johnson Soliz ‘Twist’ Drawing and sculptural works from Cardiff-based artist, with some pieces incorporating both forms and using materials like paper and fabric, Soliz’s art reflects her interest in process and what constitutes a finished product in art. (Until Wed 11 Sept) ORIEL JOANNA FIELD Torch Theatre, St. Peter’s Road, Milford Haven. Free.

01646 695267 / www. torchtheatre.co.uk Charlotte Cortazzi ‘Passing Through’ Paintings inspired by a walk undertaken by Cortazzi in 2018, from Porto to Santiago in Portugal. Poems by Sue Kullai and sculpture by Robert Jakes and Pauline Le Britton will also feature in this show.

(Throughout August)

ORIEL Y BONT University Of South Wales, Ty Crawshay Building, Llantwit Rd, Treforest.

Mon-Fri 9am-4.30pm. Free.

01443 480480 / gallery. southwales.ac.uk The Sculpture Collection Significant sculptural works from the University Of South Wales Art Collection, including pieces by David Garner, Andrew Cooper, Lilian Rathmel, Dilys Jackson, David Nash and Islwyn Watkins.

(Until Fri 6 Sept) ORIEL YR ARDD National Botanic Garden Of Wales, Middleton Hall, Llanarthne, Carmarthenshire. Daily 10am-6pm. £10.50/£8.75 concessions/£4.95 under17s/free under-5s. 01558 667149 / botanicgarden. wales Annette Townshend ‘For Safekeeping’ Wax botanical sculptures of wildflowers and original drawings on copper plates of preserved insect specimens from a museum collection. (Until Sun 8 Sept) PENARTH PIER PAVILION The Esplanade, Penarth.

Daily 10am-5pm. Free. 029 2071 2100 / www. penarthpavilion.co.uk Paws At The Pavilion

Photo exhibition of dogs, submitted by entry (closing date was the end of July though, sorry), with a chance for one winner to have a professionally drawn portrait of their dog.

(From Sat 17 Aug until Sun 1 Sept) QUEEN STREET GALLERY Queen Street, Neath. WedSat 10am-4pm. Free. 01639 631081/ www. queenstgallery.co.uk Summer Exhibition Mixed and evolving exhibition of gallery artists and newcomers including painting, mixed media artworks, printmaking, ceramics, jewellery and applied arts. (Throughout August) REDHOUSE Old Town Hall, High Street, Merthyr Tydfil. Free. 01685 384111 / info@ redhousecymru.com New Blood Work by Fine Art students from The College Merthyr Tydfil. Part of Celebration Of Welsh Contemporary Painting, a programme of various exhibitions and events across Wales this summer. (Until Sat 10 Aug) 6 Artists Last in the Celebration Of Welsh Contemporary Painting series, this features Jacqueline Alkema, Keith Bayliss, Joanne Headington, Angela Kingston, Elfyn Lewis and Jason Williams. (From Fri 16 Aug until Mon 23 Sept) THE SHO Castle Emporium (upstairs), Womanby Street, Cardiff. Tue-Sat 10am-5.30pm. Free. www. thesho.co.uk Oliver Hopkins Cardiffbased street photographer displays work depicting Roath, Canton and the city centre.

(From Sat 3 until Sat 10 Aug) Ophelia Dos Santos Clothing and accessories, all made from recycled denim and hand-embroidered, from Welsh textile designer. (From Tue 13 until Tue 20 Aug) Aliceartwork ‘A Night At The Circus’ Original pieces created using signwriting and glass gilding techniques.

(From Fri 30 Aug until Fri 27 Sept) SWANSEA MUSEUM Victoria Road, Swansea.

Tue-Sun 10am-4.30pm.

Free. 01792 653763 / www. swanseamuseum.co.uk Cartographic Imaginaries: Interpreting The Literary Atlas Of Wales Multi-artist exhibition featuring commissioned artwork in response to 12 English language novels set in Wales.

(Until Sun 8 Sept) TENBY MUSEUM & ART GALLERY Castle Hill, Tenby. Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, £4/£3/£2 kids.

01834 842809 / www. tenbymuseum.org.uk Pamela Scott Wilkie A solo exhibition of paintings, prints

and drawings by this widely exhibited artist, now in her early 80s. (Until Sun 18 Aug) A Gentleman’s Collection Of Pembrokeshire Art sales show featuring works by artists including Graham Sutherland, Gwen John, Augustus John, Nina Hamnett, Arthur Giardelli, Claudia Williams and John Knapp-Fisher. (From Mon 19 until Sun 25 Aug) Graham Hadlow Paintings from a watercolour specialist who has lives in Pembrokeshire for nearly 50 years. (From Fri 30 Aug until Sun 6 Oct) TOWER GALLERY 49 High Street, Crickhowell.

Wed-Sat 10am-5pm. Free.

01873 812495 / www. towergallery.co.uk Lesley Lillywhite & Harriet Lloyd Lillywhite: printmaker showing intricate depictions of trees; Lloyd: painter focusing on the minutiae of the decorative and the domestic. Also showing work by all members of the Usk Valley Artists’ Co-operative.

(Until Sat 21 Sept) VICTORIA FEARN GALLERY 6B Heol y Deri, Rhiwbina, Cardiff. Mon-Sat 9.30am5.30pm, Sun 10am-3pm.

Free. 029 2052 0884.

Summer Featuring both new artists to this gallery and new work from established favourites here, pottery makers Gwilli will also be exhibiting two ranges at this seasonal show..

(Until Sat 7 Sept) VOLCANO THEATRE 27-29 High Street, Swansea.

Mon-Fri 10am-4pm. Free.

01792 464790 / www. volcanotheatre.co.uk Natalie Chapman ‘Love You Mum’ “Portraits that engage with family identity and issues based around dysfunctional relationships and social documentary,” says Chapman herself,. also noting the influence of photographers Richard Billingham and Nan Golding. (From Fri 2 until Wed 14 Aug) Dale Sinoia & Simphiwe Moyo ‘When Great Minds Collide’ New work from hyperrealist pencil artist Sinoia and photographer Moyo. (From Tue 20 until Fri 30 Aug) WALES MILLENNIUM CENTRE Bute Place, Cardiff Bay. Free. 029 2063 6464 / www. wmc.org.uk Luke Jerram ‘Gaze At Gaia’ Installation piece, in 3D and 23ft across, based on detailed NASA images of the Earth’s surface. (Until Sun 1 Sept) WEST WHARF GALLERY Top floor, Jacobs Market, Cardiff. Thurs-Sat 10am5pm. Free. westwharfgallery@gmail. com Bernard Heslin ‘Seeing Voices’ Paintings which are linked to this Barrow-born, BUZZ 63

* – recommended south Wales-based artist’s interview in ARThabens, or so his website states. (From Thurs 15 until Sat 31 Aug) WORKERS GALLERY 99 Ynyshir Road, Ynyshir, nr Porth. 11am-4.30pm Thurs-Sat and by appointment. Free. 01443 682024 / www.workersgallery.co.uk August In Residence Residency programme offering visitors the chance to see artists in their natural habitat. The calendar goes like so: Bel Blue and Lucy Jane Purrington (Thurs 8 Aug, 1-4pm); Ieuan Edwards (Fri 9 and sat 10, 11am-4.30pm); Tom Berry (Fri 16 and Sat 17, 9.30am-5.30pm); Tracey Paddison and Patricia Clifford (Fri 23, 11am-4.30pm); Melanie Honebone (Sat 24, 11am-4.30pm) and Stephen Inkpen (Fri 30 and Sat 31, 11am-4.30pm). (From Thurs 8 until Sat 31 Aug)

clubs THE ANDREW BUCHAN 29 Albany Road, Cardiff.

029 2021 2509 / facebook. com/andrewbuchanbar Sun 4 Soundtrack 3.0: Superfly 8pm, free. Dave Grooveslave with soul/funk selections akin or relating to the Curtis Mayfield soundtrack to this 1972 movie.

THE ARCH 11 Commercial Street, Neath. 07791 923214 / jack. thearchneath@gmail.com Sat 24 Club Uropa Reunion 9pm-4am, £10 adv.

Club classics, funky house etc from Kelly Llorena & DJ Kuta doing a live PA plus DJs Derrick Blackmagic, Lee Buxton and Daz Hockley.

THE ATTIC 5-6 Castle Bailey St, Swansea. 01792 450850 / facebook.com/ theatticswansea Sat 10 Ibiza Anthems 11pm-3am, £1-£5. Courtesy of Big Al, Taz Meah and Jamie Morgan. Thurs 15 A-Level Results Confetti & Lazer Rave 10pm-3am, £1-£5. Not to sound like someone who comments under Guardian articles but the correct spelling is laser. Sat 24 100% Old Skool 9pm-3am, £7-£12 adv.

Main room: UK garage classics from DJ Cartier, MC Kie, Greg P, SBA and MC Footy. Room two: house anthems from Greg P and residents.

THE BIG TOP / 10 FEET TALL 11a + 12 Church Street, Cardiff. 029 2022 8883 / thisis10feettall@yahoo. co.uk Thursdays Rock hits from DJ Andy Rhys Lewis. Fridays + Saturdays Resident DJs playing soul and funk. Thurs 15 House Party 10pm-3am, £5/free before 11 if registered in advance. Three-floor bonanza; see Undertone’s listings for the third part, meanwhile the Big Top has house, techno, UKG and bass music from Electra, Jack Darwin, Beekay and Maxwell. 10 Feet Tall: liquid drum’n’bass and “chilled garage” from Maxwell, Bandit, Mumble B and a Riddim Records takeover. Register in advance on Facebook.

Saturdays Under A Groove 9pm-3am, £3 after 10. Funk and neo-soul. Sat 17 Robot Monkey 9pm-3am, £7/£5 adv.

House music with live tribal drumming and saxophone.

This time they’re trying to get a hula theme going.

BLIND TIGER 49 Cambrian Road, Newport. 01633 243500.

Wednesdays Wild Wednesdays Cocktails, drink deals and tunes as part of a cross-city midweek session.

Fridays Beekay & Friends 11pm, £3-£5. House, techno and bass music with guest DJs, breaking producers and residents from Wales’ freshest nights. Saturdays Re:work 11pm, £5. Underground and cutting edge club music promised. Sat 3 Fixate Sunset Session 4pm-4am, £5. A full half-day of chuggers up on the roof terrace with these DJs: Owen Kilby, Tom Ashton b2b Adam Evans, Ryan Goodman, PH & Lam, Lee Cooke, Jamo, Madame Twisted, Dan Waite and J-Tech.

BOX BAR 11 The Strand, Swansea.

07876 505482 / box-bar. co.uk Sat 10 Secret Garden Party 7pm, free. House and techno from Bullr, State Of Minds, Kurt Jones, Smiley and Luke Armstrong.

THE BRASS BAT St Mary Street, Cardiff. 029 2022 6802 / www. thebrassbat.com Fridays Team Up 10pm4am, £5/£3 adv. Emo, poppunk, alternative, metal, hardcore etc every Friday, with lots of drinks deals. Sean Smith, ex of The Blackout, is now the guest DJ every last Friday of the month also.

BAMBU BEACH BAR 51 Wind Street, Swansea.

01792 651651 / www. bambu-bar.co.uk

CHAPEL 1877 Churchill Way, Cardiff.

029 2022 2020 / www. chapel1877.com

Saturdays Tropical 5pm3am. New night that promises “chilled, disco, soulful, jackin’ and funky grooves” from DJs Leon Atolagbe, Laidback Lew and Dan Purcey plus weekly guests.

Fri 2 White & Gold Party 10pm-2am, £29-£95. Billed as Cardiff’s most exclusive event of the year, this features DJs over three floors, circus performers and lots of other incredibly tacky sounding

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garnishes, including a DJ set from Alex Mytton of Made In Chelsea.

CHAPTER ARTS CENTRE Market Road, Canton, Cardiff. 029 2030 4400 / www.chapter.org Sat 3 Silent Disco 8-10pm, £3/£5 including movie screening. This takes place after a screening of the film Rocketman, which is from 6-8pm.

CINEMA & CO 17 Castle Street, Swansea.

07305 908260 / www. cinemaco.co.uk Sat 3 Attached 7pm-12am, £5 adv. House, techno, jackin’ house and drum’n’bass from Connor Thomas, Justin Williams, Corey Squires, Aaron Price, Taylor Phillips, Barry Green and Matt Parker.

CLUB ICE Broadway, Pontypridd.

07771 920726 / www. clubiceponty.com Fridays Flashback 10pm3am. Retro hits from the 80s, 90s and 00s. Saturdays Gravity 10.30pm-3am, £7/£5 before 11. House, techno and

Fridays (bottom) Yum! 11pm-3am, £3-£5. Indie and pop. Fri 9 Black Parade 11pm-4am, £5 adv. Noughties emo anthems. Fri 30 Dirty Knees Reunion Meets Bullion 11pm-4am, £15 adv. See Clubs for more on this rave/jungle/drum’n’bass night featuring Ratpack and Saxxon, plus local residents.

Fri 6 Sept The Spin Doctors 11pm-4am, £8-£12.

Drum’n’bass featuring the Cardiff debut of the TNA trio, plus Benji b2b Ebbens, Diskrete, Shed, Replicait and MCs A.R.K and Pablow.

Saturdays Dirty Pop 10pm4am, £5. Three floors of fun: Grltlk and Andrew Rhys Lewis’ top floor resident indie shindig; Dirty Pop; and Mr Potter’s proper disco.

COTTON CLUB (FORMERLY WAREHOUSE54) 54 Cambrian Road, Newport. 01633 213161.

Wednesdays Hump! 7pm.

Cocktails, drink deals and tunes over two floors. Fridays Rock & Rum 9pm, £2-£4.

Rock, indie, alt and pop from Aaron Lillie and Jaivinder.

Selected drinks from £1.50.

Saturdays Raise The Roof

Newport’s Cotton Club, until recently called Warehouse54, implores us to Bring Back The Rave! on Sat 24 Aug, before doing so itself with a night of old skool hardcore headlined by UK ambassador Hixxy. dance every week on the club’s Void soundsystem.

CLUB LOGIC 12 High Street, Gorseinon, Swansea. 07763 000382 / www.the-rainbowrooms. com Fridays Open Mic Night 9pm-4am. With resident DJ Trixta plus guests each week. Saturdays 9pm-4am.

With residents plus guests each week. Sat 3 is Rob and Dippy’s birthday bash; Sat 17 is an afterparty for the Logic Festival launch party earlier in the day, at Pontardawe’s Dillwyn Arms Hotel. Sun 25 Trance Anthems & Logic Festival 4 Launch Party Bank holiday special.

CLUB OXYGEN 1 Northampton Lane, Swansea. 0844 8849171 / www.globaloxygen.co.uk Fridays Dance Anthems 11pm-4am, free. House, house & bass and tech-house all night. Saturdays 11.30pm5am, £5/free before 1. Upstairs: deep house, commercial house and tech-house. Downstairs: urban, chart, classics, r’n’b, hip-hop and UK garage.

CLWB IFOR BACH Womanby St, Cardiff. 029 2023 2199 / www.clwb.net

10pm. Funk, disco, r’n’b and classics. Sat 24 Bring Back The Rave! 10pm-6am, £5.

Old skool and hardcore from Hixxy, Adam Harris, Kevlar, The Councillor, Barno, LG Project, Smallzy Smallz, Jonny P, Odd SE and hosts Wotsee and Adam Lee. Your fiver gets you into all the other affiliated Newport clubs also.

COURTYARD 48 Cambrian Road, Newport. 01633 213161.

Wednesdays Wild Wednesdays Upfront dance anthems and “Urban Vibes”.

Fridays Spotlight Sessions / The Kickstart 5pm, £3/ free before 9. Urban and club anthems and drinks deals.

Part of the NPCLUBHOP price deal which also includes entry to Blind Tiger, Meze Lounge and Labamba. Saturdays Mischief Beat-driven anthems is the ambiguous description for tonight’s music policy. Sat 3 Reggae On The Roof 10pm-5am, £5.

Afterparty fopr the Reggae & Riddim Festival which is in Tredegar House earlier today.

DJs Peter Ice, Uprising and Matt Smooth play old school reggae and r’n’b. Sundays Good Time Social Club 8pm, free. DJs til late and the weekend’s sports highlights.

u – repeated

EDDIES 4 Quay Street, Haverfordwest. 01437 779595 / www.eddies.co

HAVERHUB 12 Quay Street, Haverfordwest. haverhub. org.uk

Fri 9 Housewerk 9pm-4am, £5 adv. Sets from ADR b2b Kailo, Jamie Morgan b2b Smiley, Scott Phillips b2b Locomote, Callum Bergin b2b Taz Meah and a competition winner.

Sat 31 Dub Soundsystem Sessions 10pm-5am.

Soundclash night featuring Green King Sounsdystem, Kai Dub, Sun Of Selah, Tailored Sound, Alliance Sounssystem and an art exhibition from Breaking Out Of The Gallery.

FERNHILL FARM BARN Pennydarren Road, Merthyr Tydfil. cellardoorcardiff.com Sat 3 Cellar Door 3pm-2am, £20 adv/£15 early bird. House and techno from the stable of this south Wales clubbing brand, up on a farm and with a Martin Audio WPC soundsystem which Cellar Door reckon is impressive.

FICTION & VINYL The City Gates, Little Wind Street, Swansea. 01792 828777 / www.fictionclub. co.uk/swansea Mondays Quids In 10.45pm2.30am, £3.50/£2 before 11.

Chart, cheese, r’n’b, dance and house. Wednesdays Underground 11pm-3.30am, £3.50/£2 before 1. House, chart, r’n’b and cheese across two rooms. Thurs 15 A Level Results Party 11pm-3am, from £2. A-level results?

Scouting For Girls? No, this isn’t a glimpse into the world of a British newspaper photographer, it’s a guest DJ set from one of Britain’s worst bands.

Who are also in Walkabout in Cardiff this evening at some point. Fridays 11pm-3am, £5/£3 adv. Drinks offers and, uh, music I guess. Saturdays Agenda 10.30pm-3am, £3.50/£2 before 1. Fiction: house, r’n’b, EDM. Vinyl: pop and party. Sat 3 is something called an Agenda Beach Party.

FUEL 5 Womanby Street, Cardiff.

07970 063107 / facebook. com/fuelcardiff Thursdays FUBAR 10pm2am. Rock, metal and alternative clubnight. Fridays + Saturdays Rock and metal anthems each weekend, plus special guests when such types are in town.

THE GLOBE AT HAY Newport Street, Hay-OnWye. 01497 821762 / www. globeathay.org Sat 24 New City Sound 8pm, £5. Loosely south Walesbased house label/DJ collective with a showcase night. Disco, funk, dub, house and good vibes are promised.

HANGAR 18 50 Plymouth Street, Swansea. 07984 664008 / facebook.com/hangar18mv Sat 3 Dead Of Night 9pm3am, £3. Goth/alternative club night, on the first Saturday of every month. Fri 9 Fantasy 10pm-3am, £8/£5 adv/£3.50 early bird. Ibiza club classics from Jonny Griffiths and presumably more TBC.

HEADROOM Venue TBC, nr Abergavenny. www.residentadvisor.net/profile/headroom.dance Fri 2-Sat 4 Headroom 2019 12pm, £75 (three days).

This new dance festival is bordering on private party status – capacity 250; there’s a Facebook group to join for more and women/non-binary people are favoured in the ticketing process – but it looks good so I’d like to boost it. Lineup: Aalice, A Boy From Outer Space, Anina, Anu, Banoffee Pies, Blasha & Allatt, Chantz, DJ Autumn, DJ October, Dr Banana, Duckett (live), Eliza Rose, Facta, Futuregarden, Gwenan, Harri Pepper, How Du (live), Jake Hodgkinson, Jaye Ward, Jessica, Marlon Clark, OK Williams, Ranks, Raoul Edwards, Soulstate Jazz (live), Tilly, Tom Ellis and Tristan Ferguson plus “ambient selections” from Dan Wild, DJ Boursin, Ellie Stokes, Equaliser and Monika Taneska.

INKSPOT The Old Church, Newport Road, Cardiff. 029 2049 0254 / www. inkspotartsandcrafts.com Fri 30 + Sat 31 Still 21 8pm-4am, £10-£15. See Clubs for more on this two-day event spanning, genre-wise, grime, drum’n’bass and trance with a local focus. Raw Stage (grime): Starvz, Fernquest, T-Rev, Just Jax & Stanza, Livewire, E Why Easy v Crash (battle), Anwar Siziba and Lucas J Rowe (Fri 30); Luke RV, Conrad Stone, Razkid, Local, Murkage, Shawgz, Smxk3 and Cujo (Sat 31) plus and DJs Dubzta and Mumble B both days. Drum’n’bass stage: ADHD with T Motion & Slick Trickz, Plethora b2b Diskrete with Chew & Hayez, Oni with Vizable & Cookie, Raudi TT with Supa Darkaz, Apollo b2b T Bone w/ Jaydee, Ryder & Ayres, Pabz with Hoodfellaz and Low with Ez Rah, Razkid & Conrad (Fri 30); Kenetix with T Motion & Slick Trickz, Cyclone b2b with Chew & Hayez, Bason with Ryder & Vizable, Joe Blow with Missy G & Hoodfellaz, Lion UK with Supa Darkaz & Cookie, Walshy Selecta with Dirty Elements and Aktik b2b Reload (Sat 31).

Trance Dun Differently stage: acts TBC. JACOB’S MARKET West Canal Wharf, Cardiff.

029 2039 0939.

Sat 17 Babylon Rooftop 4.10.30pm, £10-£20. Touring club brand has one of

its regular parties on the roof here. Sun 25 Delete 1-10.30pm, £18 adv/£23 inc afterparty. House and techno from Spokenn (a Dutch duo of DJs Ferro and Reiss) and Voightmann, plus locals Marc Parsons, Matt Owen and Lee Graves. Outdoor (well, under a marquee) party which moves to Jacobs’ basement from 10.30pm-4am.

LASER STATION Bridge Wharf, Carmarthen.

01267 235648 / www. laserstationwales.com Thurs 15 Madd Media x Wonkcrafts Invite Sessions 8pm-12am, £5 adv.

Showcase event for up and coming local DJs, the nights also being filmed on Madd Media’s online TV channel.

Book in advance please.

LE PUBLIC SPACE High Street, Newport. 01633 221477 / www. lepublicspace.co.uk Fri 7 Return Of Drop Your Pants 11pm-3am. Indie/ alternative disco that used to be resident in various grotty Newport venues. Sat 3 Thnks Fr Th Mmrs 11pm-3am, free.

Emo, pop-punk and nu-metal from the previous decade, here on the first Saturday of each month.

LOGIC FESTIVAL Riverside Caravan Park, Swansea. 07763 000382 / www.logicfestival.co.uk Sat 7 Sept Logic Festival 2019 11am-11pm, £40 adv.

See Clubs for more on this big alldayer. Lineup like so.

Logic Trance Arena: Judge Jules, Scott Project, Bliss, Dave Pearce, Marcella Woods, Nicholson, Argy, Big Al, Jonny Griffiths, Rob Rees, John Hughes and Andrew Butty Davies. Logic Xtra Hard: Darren Styles, Technoboy, Uberdruck, Francesco Zeta, Andy Whitby, MKN, L.E.D, Juice b2b Jason P, Faze 2, Frisky, Ed ET, Odd-S-E b2b Angle Eyes and hosts Wotsee,

K-Ner and Skyz. Clubland Arena: Ian Van Dahl, N-Trance, 4 Strings, Flip & Fill, Breeze, Scott Brown, Fallon, Martin Dibble, Rob EJ, Jay P, Chris Miller and hosts MC Keyes and Finchy. 100% Old Skool Arena: Marcella Woods, Greg P, Nicky G, Newmans vs Stiens, Dan T, Justin Thomas, Peters Mobile Disco, John Steffanick, Josh Morgan, D-Vox, Steve John and James Wilding. Chill Out Area: Trixta, Cabreeni, DJ XJ, Wesley Harding, Madame Twisted, J-Tech and DJ Pure.

MARY’S 89 St Mary Street, Cardiff.

Mon-Thurs 4pm-2am, Fri 4pm-3am, Sat 12pm-3am, Sun 12pm-1am. 029 2066 8647 / www.maryscardiff. co.uk Wednesdays Wednesday Club 8pm-2am. Dance and chart toppers with DJ Chris. Thursdays Mixxet 8pm-2am. Fun, games, and cabaret with Amber Dextrous and Alphaa Heart. Fri 2 Hey Mary: Category Is 90s 9pm-2.30am, £3. Drag discotheque with DJs Sissy Boy Tears and Dando, plus performances from Eletra Complex, Felicity Saunders, Lunda Sea and hosts Medusa Repulsa and Nemesis Repulsa.

Fridays Non Stop Party 8pm-2am. DJ Lee plays tunes from the 90s onwards. Fri 23-Sun 25 Pride! Various bonus stuff to tie in with Cardiff Pride weekend. Fri 23 is hosted by Miss Kitty and Charlie Hides; Sat 24 features Son Of A Tutu, Mary Golds, Victoria Scone and Justin Drag, and Sun 25 has Miss Kitty, Rachel Roberts as Shirley Bassey, drag artist Ruby Slippers, The Motown Devotions and South Wales Gay Men’s Chorus doing their varied things. Saturdays 8pm-2am. Dance, pop and chart with DJ Billy Joe. Sundays Service 5pm-2am, free. Bingo with Aunty Ade and Aunty Betty from 5pm, with cash prizes; DJ Mary Golds until 9pm; guest cabaret at

9pm and DJ Billy Joe on the tapes (this is an odd turn of phrase but I like it) until 1am.

METRO’S Baker’s Row, Cardiff. 029 2039 9942 / www. metroscardiff.com Wednesdays Cheapskates 10pm-4am, £2 before 11. Pop and alternative old and new.

Fridays Meltdown 10.30pm4am, free before 11. Punk and rock anthems. Saturdays Lose Yourself 10.30pm-4am, free before 11. Stereo Brain playing indie, beats, treats and pop-punk.

MINSKYS SHOW BAR Cathedral Walk, St David’s Centre, Cardiff. 029 2023 3128 / www.minskysshowbar.com Fridays & Saturdays 8pm1am. Dancing and cabaret with regular drag acts including Tina Sparkle, Miss Babs and Jolene Dover.

MOCKA LOUNGE Mill Lane, Cardiff. Mon-Sat 11am-late. 029 2022 1295 / www.mockalounge.com Thursdays Iqos Social Club / Intuition 7-9pm: Iqos Social Club; 9pm-late: Intuition with DJs Monique B and Dan Willow. Fridays Feeling Soul, funk, disco, rare groove and r’n’b with resident DJs and happy hour from 5-8pm.

Saturdays House Of Play House and r’n’b from resident DJs. Sundays Secret Resident DJs play 90s music.

Sun 4 Sounds Of Ibiza Terrace Party 4pm, free.

My understanding is that the sounds of Ibiza will be played on this bar’s terrace area.

THE MOON Womanby Street, Cardiff.

029 2037 3022 / info@ themooncardiff.com Tue 13 Psychedelic Tiger 10pm-2.30am. New drum’n’bass night. Wed 28 Womanby’s Clubbing 5-8pm. Monthly clubbing

DJ CARTIER & MC KIE 100% Old Skool @ The Attic, Swansea, Sat 24 Aug Tickets: £7-£12. Info: 01792 450850 / facebook.com/ theatticswansea The old skool in question here is garage, as in the effervescent bubbly UK stuff from the late 90s and early 00s primarily, and the proportion of it at this night is not actually 100%, because the second room in the Attic is given over to funky house anthems.

Pedantry aside, let’s talk about DJ Cartier, who is the headliner for this Bank Holiday weekend shakedown. Since emerging over two decades ago, he’s stayed loyal to the UK garage scene, and it to him: one of the prominent spinners of the sound on Rinse FM since 2008, he’s also a fixture on lineups for Garage Nation and the like. He’ll be joined here by MC Kie, with Greg P, SBA and MC Footy also in the main room.

events for adults with learning disabilities, physical disabilities and mental health conditions. Run in partnership with Student Volunteering.

Thursdays One More Time 10.30pm-3am, free.

Music from the 90s and 00s.

Fridays Gigantic Until 4am, free. Funk, punk, rock’n’roll,

free for carers. In the venue’s words, a gentle club night with music, a bar and chillout area, accessible toilet and friendly staff. Also open to under-18s until 9pm. First Friday of every month.

THE PHILHARMONIC 76-77 St Mary Street,

Cardiff LGBT+ haven Wow Bar has moved a short distance to Windsor Place, into the building vacated by Buffalo in January, and is carrying on much as before. Open every day, with DJs, cabaret, drag, showgirls and offers on sugary booze galore. hip-hop, indie, reggae and soul after bands finish playing. Fri 2 Urban Dun Differently 6pm, free. Hip-hop showcase.

Saturdays Five Dollar Shake Until 4am, free. Bebop, funk, soul, Motown, hip-hop, reggae, ska and everything in between, after bands finish playing.

MUSIQUE BAR & LOUNGE Market Street, Newport.

01633 533666 / theneon. co.uk/neon-bar-lounge Fridays + Saturdays 9pm-2am, free. Soul, funk, old skool hip-hop, reggae, house, UK garage, lovers rock etc.

Sun 25 Unity 8pm-3am, £2/ free before 10. House, techno and tech-house from Richie Moulton, Chris Cane, Jon Williams, Oliver Harvey and Greg Baker.

THE NEW FORESTERS 110 High Street, Blackwood.

01495 223200.

Sat 31 Revolution 9pm, £8.

UK hard dance fave Dark By Design (not typed that name into these listings in a while) headlines over DNA, Jay G, The Instigator, DJ Dash, BKR Vs MYK, Valley Houser and MC Dee. NO.3 The Old Warehouse, Bridge Street, Haverfordwest. no.3entertainment@ outlook.com / facebook.com/ no.3nightclubhaverfordwest Sat 17 Tectonic Summer Sesh 10pm-3am. Drum’n’bass, jungle, bassline, hardtek and ghetto funk from Kelvin 373, Rogue One, One_Z, Damage, Mackay, Tone and RV. Sun 5 Boogie Nights: Alfresco 9pm. This is hosted by Dai Die Fünf and takes place in the smoking area outside this club.

OCEAN ARTS CARDIFF Unit 2, East Moors Business Park, East Moors Rd, Cardiff Bay. 029 2132 0030 / www.oceanartscardiff. co.uk Fri 2 All Accessible Club Nights 7.30-11.30pm, £3/

Cardiff. 029 2132 0740 / www.thephilharmoniccardiff. co.uk Fri 2 Paradox 9pm-3am, from £7 adv. Newish house and techno promoters with a night spread over three rooms.

Room 1: KUSP, Mathew Hart and Ryan Ross; room 2 (the terrace): Old As Dust, State Of Minds, Lee Grey and Jamie Howells. Room 3: chillout room.

THE PINK GERNAIUM 31-33 Herbert Street, Pontardawe. 01792 862255.

Sat 17 The Pink Alldayer 11am-1am, free. Annual (I think?) day-long rave taking place outside until 11pm, then indoors for the last two hours.

DJs: Nathan ‘Titch’ Morgan, Julie Chamberlain, Brett Williams, Matthew O’Keefe, Anthony Antwon Davies, Jamie Morgan, Conor Smillie , Ben Hughes, Alan Tomlinson, Martin Dibble , Matthew Evans, John Evans and Taz Meah.

PITCHER & PIANO Wind Street, Swansea.

01792 461312 / www. pitcherandpiano.com Fri 16 Heft 8pm-2am, free. House and that from The Deep, General Funk Recordings, Gemini Twins and Heft residents plus a secret special guest. You have to tag your name on the wall of the Facebook event page to guarantee entry, it says here. Sun 25 Groove 4-11pm, from £6 adv. Daytime’n’evening Bank Holiday house vibes.

PLATFORM 11 High Street, Pontypridd.

Fri-Sun 7.30pm-2am. www. platform11.co.uk Sun 25 029 6pm-4am, £7-£12. Headlined by DJ/ production duo JSRP, who are called Jack and Richey, met in Ibiza and have released singles on Elrow.

POPWORLD 96 St Mary Street, Cardiff.

Mon, Tue + Thurs 9pm3am; Wed 8pm-3am; Fri

5pm-3am; Sat 1pm-3am.

029 2023 5825.

Mondays Pop Rocks 9pm.

A night of what they call alternative pop. Wednesdays Top Banana 10pm-3am.

Retro gaming, giveaways and DJ Giggsy playing the songs.

Thursdays Top Of The Pops 10pm-3am. Discounted drinks, free entry and a chance to party the night away, all advertised using the logo from defunct TV show Top Of The Pops which, as a national brand of venues, I assume Popworld are using with the full permission of the BBC. Fridays Reflex 7pm-3am. Drinks deals until 11pm. Saturdays Popworld Party 1pm-3am. Drinks deals from 3-6pm.

POPWORLD 2-5 Wind Street, Swansea.

Mon-Fri + Sun 8pm-3am; Sat 3pm-3am. 01792 470676.

Mondays Cheapskates 9pm-3am. With DJ Rubell “spinning the mixes on the decks” in the slightly confusedsounding words of Popworld itself. Wednesdays Quids In 8pm-3am. Student night where drinks are £1. Thursdays Neon Disco 9pm-3am. Dance r’n’b, pop, chart and punk.

Fridays #WTF 9pm-3am, £2-£4. Tunes, games etc.

Saturdays Pop Party 8pm3am, £2-£4. Sundays SIP 9pm-3am, That’s short for Service Industry Party.

PRYZM Greyfriars Road, Cardiff.

029 2023 3854 / www. pryzm.co.uk/cardiff Mondays Quids In 10pm3am, £1 adv/£6 VIP. Student night featuring various special guests. Thurs 15 A Level Results Fest 9.30pm-3am, from £5 adv/from £12 VIP. This features three stages and the main one has performances from B Young, Devilman and Dr Vades among others.

Fridays Smack. 9pm-3am, £4 adv. Weekly student event described by one enthusiast as “lit Friday nights with chilled fam bams and regular bants”.

Saturdays Agenda 10pm3am, £5. Three music arenas, VIP booths, other stuff. Sat 3 features a giant ball pit so is called ‘Goes Balls Deep’, Sat 10 is an Agenda UV Rave, Sat 17 is an Ibiza Summer Party and Sat 24 is a Mamma Mia Tribute Takeover and features an Abba cover band at some point.

PULSE 3 Churchill Way, Cardiff.

029 2064 1010 / www. pulsecardiff.com. Gay venue.

Wednesdays Kapow!

10pm-4am. Student night with Jolene Dover and DJ Warren.

Fridays Full On 10pm-5am, £4/£3. DJ Craig downstairs, Opal upstairs. Saturdays The Sound Of Saturday 10pm-5am, £5/£4 b4 11. The very best chart remixes and classic hits all night long.

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THE RED LION 97 Queen Victoria St, Tredegar. 01495 724449 Sat 3 Powercore 7pm2am, £5. Hardstyle from Natski & MC Enemy, Xsiv, The Instigator, DNA, Webbe, Leif Boi, Blocaldini, Rob b2b Danny, Pete Rampage and MC Pieman.

SAX BAR & NIGHTCLUB 4A Derwen Road, Bridgend.

01656 856650.

Sat 10 Jungle Tech 002 11pm-4am, £6/£5 adv. With headline DJ Natasha Denby, who from what I can make out via looking online doesn’t play jungle, or much techno even.

Ronan Williams, Greg Sage, Taz Meah and Ethan Keeble are the other DJs anyway SHOOTERS SPORTS BAR 16 New Street, Neath. 01639 798090.

Sat 3 Hedone 9pm-4am, £7/£5 before 11. House and techno headlined by DJ W!ld from Paris. Previously announced as being at the Duke, and earlier in the day, in case you saw that first.

SIN CITY Dilwyn Street, Swansea.

01792 468892 / www. sincityclub.co.uk Tuesdays Hustle 10pm3am, £3/£2 before 12. Motown, r’n’b and hip-hop. Thursdays Sin Savers 10pm-3am, £3.

Student night. Saturdays Sink 10pm-3am. Hip-hop, drum’n’bass, dubstep etc, with special guests plus resident DJs Dubman, Swiss Elf and South.

SODA St Mary Street, Cardiff. 029 2037 3363 / www. sodacardiff.com Wednesdays Replay 9pm4am, £4. Chart, cheese and r’n’b for students. Fridays Guilty Sounds 10pm4am, £4/£6 VIP. R’n’b and house from the 90s and 00s.

Saturdays Soiree 9pm4am. Three rooms including the Attic which is “the social playground for the high flyers and social elite, the only place to be seen.” Imagine catching your reflection in the mirror just after writing that.

Sundays Soda Sundays 9pm-3am, £4/£8 VIP. Three floors of music for students and industry workers. Sun 11 Summer All-Dayer 4pm4am, £4/£8 VIP. DJ sets from Colin Francis, Mr Biba, Jordan Valleys, DJT, DJ Jigga, Jay Vivet and Monique B. TALYWAIN RFC New Road, Talywain, Pontypool. 01495 772597 / talywain.rfc.wales Sat 3 Tremor 1-10pm, £15/£10. Hard dance from Jordan Suckley, Steve Hampton, Bradz, pH & Lam, CJM, Cai B, Paul Hicks and The Insomniacs.

TIGER TIGER Friary House, Greyfriars BUZZ 66

Rd, Cardiff. Open Mon-Fri 12pm-2am, Sat 12pm-3am, Sun 12pm-12.30am. 029 2039 1944 / www.tigertigercardiff.co.uk Every Day Lucky Voice Karaoke From £2.50 per session. The UK’s leading private karaoke experience each day of the week. Mondays Dolla Dolla 10pm-3am, £5/£2. Student night with special guests. Tuesdays Sync 10pm-3am, £3. R’n’b and hip-hop from DJ Sole and Alex Davies; disco, house and bass from Lewis Disson, Kyle Thom and Jordan Witts.

Wednesdays Shotgun Rules 10pm-3am, £5/£3.50.

Exclusive midweek student party. You don’t need NUS to get in though. Thurs 15 Shutdown 9pm-3am. A-level results party featuring a set from Jay 1. Tiger Tiger “has been the number one venue for A-levels for the last eight years,” it says here. A sad decline from how it was in my day, when that status was held by the humble ‘school’.

Fridays Tic Toc 10pm-3am, £4. “Forget the DJs who play the stuff you’ve never heard of, ours will be playing your favourite tracks all night long.” Saturdays Kanaloa Polynesian style area with cocktails, VIP booths, dancers etc. Sun 25 Crunk 10pm3am, from £1. Bangers from the old and new school with DJ Piddy. The last Crunk of 2019, it says here.

TREDEGAR PARK Tredegar House, Duffryn, Newport. 01633 815880.

Fri 2 Urban Circle Summer Fest 11am-6pm, free. Previewed in last month’s clubs section, this is headlined

by Lady Leshurr and presumably has other local acts also.

Book in advance via Eventbrite please (if there are still tickets left). Sat 3 Reggae & Riddim Festival 12-8pm, £3 adv. Mentioned in last month’s clubs section, today features memetastic toaster Macka B alongside a bunch of others TBC. Sat 10 BBQ Jam Summer 19 12-10.30pm, £20 adv. Bassline, dancehall, funky house, grime and r’n’b from Marcus Nasty, Ms Banks, Young Lion, Jack Junior and more.

UNDERTONE (BASEMENT OF 10 FEET TALL) 11a + 12 Church Street, Cardiff. 029 2022 8883 / www.undertonecardiff.com Thurs 1 Free Rave 10pm3am, free before 11.30 with your name tagged on the event page wall. Drum’n’bass all night, of course, with Package, Beanieguy, Bennie, Morse Code and ADHD. Fri 2 Darth DNB 9pm-4am, £8/£5 adv. Drum’n’bass from Filthy Habits, Beanieguy, JE3, Ebbens, Ejay, H:az, Leightdon, Raudi TT, Plethora and Shed, presumably not the techno producer of that name. Hosted by MCs Ryder, Air Z and T-Motion. Sat 3 Mango & M8s 3-9pm, free.

Dubstep and grime early on

from Sir Hiss, Mango, Cell, Sarki, OCG and Plethora, then drum’n’bass from Bandit, Raidi TT, Beanieguy (does this person live in the venue now?) and host MCs Pablow and Tremmah. Thurs 15 House Party 10pm-3am, £5/ free before 11 if registered in advance. Also taking place in the Big Top and 10 Feet Tall, down here there’s drum’n’bass sets from Benny Bootleg, Riddim 68, Ejay and takeovers from Riddim Records and Heatwave. Fri 9 Ryan Ross & Jack Darwin 10pm-4am, £6/£5 before 12. Ross is from Paradox, Darwin from Breathe, and they’ll be playing house and techno all night long. Sat 10 XL Invites 10pm-3am, £5 adv. Drum’n’bass from Cesco, Ransom, Sour Sounds Promotions, Wrekka, Erb and hosts XL, Hazey and Jordy G. Sun 25 Nu:Clear 10pm-3am, £5. Drum’n’bass from Benji, Shed b2b Jrdn, Ark, Replicait and H-az.

VALE WAREHOUSE Cambria House, Penarth Road, Cardiff. info@ valewarehouse.com Sat 3 Groove Car Park Summer Series Part 2 3-10.30pm, from £8. Located outside, as per the event name, this has been on the roof of Glam for the last two summers but is now here. Lineup features Rebuke and more TBC. WALKABOUT 65-74 St Mary Street, Cardiff. 029 2072 7930 / www.walkaboutbars.co.uk/ venues/cardiff Thurs 15 A Level Results Party 10pm-3am, £3/£7 VIP. With a DJ set from Scouting For Girls, who are also in Swansea tonight, the hardworking, desperate bastards.

Sun 25 Ali G’s Jungle Is Massive Live PA + Meet & Greet 10pm-3.30am, from £5 adv. “Expect all the best big jungle, UKG + 90s love making riiiiiiddems you can crank up inside your Vauxhall Nova to, grab ya Julies and come get a snap with the don himself to for a LIVE PA + Meet & Greet!

This event is not related to Channel 4 or its Subsidiaries and/or Sacha Baron Cohen as himself.” Why would anyone want to meet and/or greet some random guy dressed as Ali G? WOW BAR 11 Windsor Place, Cardiff.

Gay venue. www. wowbarcardiff.com Mondays Ida’s Mellow Mondays Free. Music from DJ Chris, hosted by Ida Mann.

Wednesdays Gypsy’s Jaunty Wednesdays Free.

Music from DJ Craig, hosted

by Gypsy Divine with a guest artist every week. Thursdays Krazy Karaoke Free. Music from DJ Chris, hosted by Dominique Trix and with a free shot for everyone who does a song. Fridays Capilicious Cabaret Free before 11.

Hosted by various members of the WOW Showgirls, plus special guests every week.

Saturdays Double Trouble Free before 10. Pop and party with DJs Gypsy, Krys and Craig. Sundays Fundays 12pm-1.30am, free. DJ Krys and Chris play the tunes until late, plus there are guests artists every week.

events EVERY MONDAY uEscape Reality Cardiff Escape Reality, John Street, Cardiff. Mon-Fri + Sun 1.309pm; Sat 12-9pm, £16-£20 per player. Info 029 2132 3120 / cardiff@escapereality.com.

Escape room setup where players have an hour to solve puzzles and exit the room in question. Offers each day for hen/stage parties, corporate events etc. uNoFit State Circus Classes And Courses Four Elms Road, Adamsdown, Cardiff. £4-£12 per class. Info 029 2022 1330 / www. nofitstate.org. Classes for various age groups on every day; check the website for full details. uUp Side Down Circus

Library. 4-6pm, free. Info 01873 811579. Drop-in creative writing sessions led by Uschi Turoczy. Running throughout summer but with no set finish date at present.

English Conversation Group For Beginners M.A.D.E. Gallery & Shop, Cardiff. 11am, free. Info 029 2047 3373. Led by a qualified English language teacher.

Mid Wales Dance Academy Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon. Info 01874 623219.

With Lesley Walker. Also on Thursdays, Fridays aand Saturdays.

Open Mic Night Porter’s, Cardiff. 8pm. Info info@ porterscardiff.com. uSeeWales Sightseeing Day Tour National Museum Cardiff (pickup point). 9am5.30pm, £5 off if you present this magazine. Info 029 2022 7227 / www.seewales. com. Tuesdays and Fridays: Mines & Mountains, visiting Big Pit Mining Museum and Brecon Beacons National Park. Wednesdays and Saturdays: Romans & Ruins, visiting Caerleon, Caerwent, Tintern Abbey, the Wye Valley, Abbey Mill Craft Centre and Raglan Castle. Thursdays and Sundays: Golden Gower, vis-

A fortnight before Cardiff’s main Pride weekend, Cathays Community Centre hosts a BAME Pride day on Sat 10 Aug. Aimed at black and minority ethnic LGBT+ persons living locally – and their friends/ allies – a fashion show and live performances are slated to feature.

Classes Cave Venture Workshops, Tremorfa Industrial Estate, Cardiff. Info 029 2048 8854 / info@ upsidedowncircus.co.uk.

Classes for various skill levels on every day; check the website for full details.

EVERY TUESDAY uAdult Give It A Go Climbing Session Boulders, St Catherine’s Park, Cardiff.

6.30-7.50pm, £15. Info 029 2048 4880. Every Tuesday to Thursday.

Beginners Ballet Dance House, Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 6.157.30pm, £6. Info 029 2063 5614. Covering key ballet principles including developing core strength, improving posture, basic steps, flexibility and coordination. Hosted by National Dance Company Wales.

Beginners Contemporary Dance Dance House, Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7.30-8.45pm, £6. Info 029 2063 5614. Exploring the basic principles of contemporary dance through a set of exercises. Hosted by National Dance Company Wales.

Caban Sgriblio Brecon

intg visits the Gower, Swansea Bay, Parc-Le-Breos, the Dylan Thomas Centre and more.

EVERY WEDNESDAY Djembe Drumming Workshops Ocean Arts Cardiff, Cardiff Bay. 6.309.30pm, £5/£3. Info oceanartscardiff@gmx. co.uk. 6.30-8pm: beginners (£3); 8.15-9.30pm: intermediate/ advanced (£5). Drop-in classes.

Welsh Conversation For Learners M.A.D.E. Gallery & Shop, Cardiff. 10am, free. Info 029 2047 3373. Led by a qualified Welsh language teacher.

EVERY THURSDAY FAN Group Meeting Cardiff Central Library. 5.30pm, free. Info www.thefancharity. org. Meet new people, make friends and get to know your neighbours.

Learn To Roller Skate Cardiff Central Youth Club, Cardiff. 6-7.30pm, £4/£40 for eight weeks at two sessions per week. Info www.brawlers. co.uk. With Cardiff roller derby team Tiger Bay Brawlers; fully coached and with veteran

skater lead. Also on every Sunday.

Mid Wales Dance Academy Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon. Info 01874 623219.

Singing For Lung Health Bridges Centre, Drybridge House, Monmouth. 11am12pm, £3. Info 03000 555555.

New singing group set up by the British Lung Foundation and open to anyone living with a lung condition.

Yinyasa Yoga Class Cathays Community Centre.

1.05-1.55pm, £5. Info facebook. com/yinyasacardiff.

Yoga First Floor, 3 Assembly Square, Britannia Quay, Cardiff Bay. 12.30-1.15pm, £5.

Info elliecoptor@hotmail.com.

With Mat Roblin.

EVERY FRIDAY Bingo Lingo The Depot, Cardiff. 6pm, £5. Info www. depotcardiff.co.uk. Features street food, a wheel of fortune and “rubbish prizes”. Also in Newport on Sat 29 this month.

English Conversation Group For Advanced Adult Learners M.A.D.E. Gallery & Shop, Cardiff. 11am, free. Info 029 2047 3373. Led by a qualified English language teacher.

Mid Wales Dance Academy Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon. Info 01874 623219.

Rhiwbina Farmers Market The Butchers Arms, Rhiwbina.

10am-1pm, free. Info 029 2022 7982.

EVERY SATURDAY Mid Wales Dance Academy Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon. Info 01874 623219.

Roath Real Food Market Mackintosh Sports Club Car Park, Roath, Cardiff. 9.30am1pm, free. Info 029 2022 7982.

EVERY SUNDAY Cooper’s Quiz Porter’s, Cardiff. 8pm, £1 to play. Info info@porterscardiff.com.

Hosted by Ben Cooper.

Draw Somebody’s Sunday Body Little Man Coffee Co, Cardiff. 1.30-3.30pm, £7.50.

Info 07830 381930. Hosted by Cardiff Life Model.

Learn To Roller Skate Cardiff Central Youth Club, Cardiff. 12-1pm, £3/£40 for eight weeks at two sessions per week. Info www.brawlers. co.uk. Uncoached session hosted by Tiger Bay Brawlers.

Riverside Farmers’ Market Fitzhammon Embankment, Cardiff. 10am2pm, free. Info 029 2022 7982.

Always worth a trip.

Sunday Board Games Cardiff Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 3pm, free. Info 029 2030 4400. Weekly session featuring a mixture of competitive and co-operative games.

THURSDAY 1 AUGUST uFinn’s Weekly Hootenanny Gentileza, Cardiff. 6pm, free. Info gentilezacdf@gmail.com.

Planned to be every Thursday, this is an multi-disciplinary open mic night upstairs in this Duke Street Arcade cafe.

Today features performances from Francesca’s World Salad and Gareth Davies. uHomeless World Cup

Bute Park, Cardiff. Free. Info homelessworldcup.org. Event, in Cardiff for the first time, which started on Sat 27 July and which we wrote about last month including an interview with its ambassador Michael Sheen. In addition to a week of football matches featuring some 500 homeless players, there’ll be an area with live music hosted by Pyst (see Music listings for those), family activities, theatre, art, workshops and debate. Today features a live recording of The Guilty Feminist podcast, with guest Michael Sheen, starting at 5.15pm. (Until Sat 3) uKids’ History Festival: Weaving Willow Workshop Oxwich Castle, Gower, nr Swansea. 11-4pm, free after admission to site. Info 01792 390359. First in a month of events under the Kids’ History Festival banner, promoted by Cadw across various castles (Iisted the ones in the area we cover). Also on Thurs 8, 15 and 22.

Literary Lunch: Vaseem Khan All Saints’ Church, Penarth. 12.30-3pm, £15. Info 029 2070 3170. Author talks about his latest novel Bad Day At The Vulture Club. uMakers Market National History Museum, St Fagans.

10am-5pm, free. Info 029 2057 3500. Also featuring workshops and demonstrations as well as wares for sale. (Until Sun 11, and from Sun 24-Thurs 29) uMiners Fortnight Postcard Making Big Pit National Coal Museum, Blaenafon. 11am-4pm, free.

Info 029 2057 3650. (Until Sat 10) uMonmouth Festival Chippenham Fields, Monmouth. Free. Info www. monmouthfestival.co.uk.

Annual event, on this site as opposed to the town centre for the first time this year. Not clear exactly what’ll be on offer, apart from no music in the main bit as in previous years.

(Until Sat 4) uPirate Week Gower Heritage Centre, Swansea.

10am-5.30pm. Info 01792 371206. Kids’ activities such as gold panning, bouncy castle, craft activities, movies held in Wales’ smallest cinema La Charrette, and the opportunity to cross swords with Captain Jack Sparrow and Captain Charlotte Duberry. (Until Sun 4) Summer Holiday Free Activities Glynn Vivian Art Gallery, Swansea. 10am4.30pm, free (suggested donation £1). Info 01792 516900.

A week and a bit of drop-in self-led activities (finishing today) based around the Hand Drawn Action Packed exhibition, including a Giant Magnet Board, a collaborative drawing conveyor belt, a three-dimensional world-building project and a competition to draw yourself as a dog. Plus craft stuff and activity packs. uThe Green Gathering Chepstow Racecourse. £120 adv/£75 16-17-year-olds/£55 11-15-year-olds/£10 under-11s/ free under-6s/£35 per day on the gate. Info www. greengathering.org.uk.

Hippyish festival, been going

a few years now, with craft, permaculture, alt-tech, healing, activism and the like all available to do or investigate.

Music-wise, though, expect to hear Henge, Dragonsfly, Keepers’ Brew, Society Of Imaginary Friends, She, Robot, Guranfoe, Mamatung, Great Big Feet, Mazula, True Strays, Devonbird, Danieal, Moan, Edd Donovan, Arcadia Roots, Celtarabia, Smiley & The Underclass, FireFarm, Mal Webb And Kylie Morrigan, Hattie Hatstar, Sika, Solar Love Society, Boom Boom Racoon, Buff, Brian Boothby, Dora Darling-Swann, Hannah Scott, Bethlehem Casuals, Prudent Primate, Ask My Bull, Mobius Loop, Hoopy Frood, The Don Bradmans, Pattern Pusher, The Fabulous Red Diesel, Jabba Cartel, The Fecktones, Andy Twyman, Matthew Frederick, E:clipse, Saachi, Hedge Gods, Captain Starfighter & The Lockheeds, Robert King and Emma Black over four days. Plus poetry and comedy from Salena Godden, Johnny Fluffypunk, The Antipoet, Roxconscious, Other Tongues, Meera Patel, Pete The Temp, Fossilheads, Rich Butnotfamous, Kath Tait, Gadael Tir and Mal Webb.

(Until Sun 4) uUpcycling Week Foyer, Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 11am-4pm, free.

Info 029 2063 6464. Family activities where you are invited to bring knackered old socks, t-shirts etc and transform them into a toy sea creature. uWooden Spoon Pirate Puppets National Wool Museum, Dre-fach Felindre.

12-3pm, free. Info 029 2057 3600. Drop-in Scrappy Sheep craft session. On tomorrow also.

FRIDAY 2 AUGUST uBingo Lingo The Depot, Cardiff. 6pm, £5. Info www. depotcardiff.co.uk. Features street food, a wheel of fortune and “rubbish prizes”. Every Friday this month.

Cardiff Inter Varsity Club Meeting Park Plaza Hotel, Cardiff. 8.30pm, £5 (threemonth trial membership). Info 07526 141392 / www.cardiffivc. org.uk. Meeting here on the first Friday of each month. uDinky Donkey Walking Venue TBC, Brecon Beacons. £35/£25 under-16s. Info 01874 749092. Spend a couple of hours with a pair of Miniature Mediterranean Donkeys. Also on Tue 6, Fri 16, Thurs 22 and Thurs 29 this month. uDrop-In Art Workshops Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff.

2-5pm, £1 per activity. Info 029 2030 4400. Aimed at ages 4-11 and families more generally, every Friday this month will feature a number of different craft projects to try. uGraft Craft: Bug Boxes National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 12.30-3.30pm, free.

Info 029 2057 3600. Make a box with a magnifier in and look at bugs through it. (Until Sun 4) I Can... Draw Glynn Vivian Art Gallery, Swansea. 10.30am1pm, free (suggested donation £3). Info 01792 516900. First

ST FAGANS FOOD FESTIVAL National Museum Of History, St Fagans, Sat 7 + Sun 8 Sept Admission: free (charges apply for some activities). Info: 029 2057 3500 / museum.wales/stfagans Food festivals pop up, as the parlance has it, and sometimes disappear soon after, but this one, dotted in and around the grounds of the museum at St Fagans, reaches its 10th annual edition next month. It’s one of the better ones, too, combining food from more seasoned Welsh producers with some slightly leftfield interactive stuff as opposed to just hauling in the same street food trucks you see everywhere else in south Wales. As well as lots of scran and liquids to purchase and/or consume, there’s live music drawing from the BBC’s latest crop of acts on the Horizons scheme and a display of prize-winning legumes from the Welsh branch of the National Vegetable Society. Onions both bigger and prettier than your head are hotly anticipated. of four family workshops here this month, the others being on Fri 9, 16 and 23, where the Gallery’s learning team will help participants experiment with a range of materials and techniques.

Little Mice Club: Bugs And Mini-Beasts National Waterfront Museum, Swansea.

10.30am-12pm, free. Info 029 2057 3600. Monthly event for preschool children and their parents/carers.

Shell And Rock Painting Mission Gallery, Swansea.

11am-1pm, free. Info 01792 652016. Workshop for ages 7+. uStreet Food Circus Old School Yard, Canton, Cardiff.

6-10pm, free. Info streetfoodcircus.co.uk. Street Food Circus return to Cardiff, in a new location (behind the Corporation pub/Canton library), with two dozen or so stalls, trucks etc. On from 6-10pm every Friday; 12-9pm all other days. (Every Saturday and Sunday, plus Mon 26, until Sun 1 Sept) SATURDAY 3 AUGUST uBarry Island 10k Run Whitmore Bay seafront, Barry Island (starting point).

10am, £5-£25 to enter/free to spectate. Info 01446 704737.

Featuring fundraising and fun run options – see barryisland10k.co.uk for more.

On tomorrow also. uBig Welsh Bite Ynysangharad Park, Pontypridd. 11am-5pm, free.

Info 07492 260298. Lots of food and drinks stalls plus cookery demos and other entertainment. On tomorrow also. uButetown Carnival

Parade Workshops BEAT Centre, Cardiff Bay. 11am8pm. Info 07952 296633.

Making costumes, floats etc in preparation for the carnival parade itself on Sat 25. Open daily except for Sundays.

(Until Fri 24) Creative Sketchbooking Mission Gallery, Swansea.

11am-4pm, £30. Info 01792 652016. Workshop aimed at ages 16+.

Dewch i Ganu National Waterfront Museum, Swansea.

11am, free. Info 029 2057 3600.

Join musician Delyth Jenkins and learn Welsh through song.

Enfys Craft Fair St. Francis Millennium Centre, Barry.

10am-4pm. Info 01446 792149.

Every first Saturday of the month.

Film Focus 3.0: City The Andrew Buchan, Cardiff.

8pm, free. Info 029 2021 2509.

Exploring a selection of early film classics tied to various themes, in this case the rise of the city at the same time as cinema (in the 1920s). uKids’ History Festival: The Defence Of Blaenavon Blaenavon Ironworks. 11-4pm, free after admission to site.

Info 01495 792615. On tomorrow also.

Landscape Photography Brecon Beacons National Park. £65. Info 01874 749092.

Three-hour small group session with local photographer Sean Crawford. A Good Day Out event.

Mini Mono Workshop The Printhaus, Canton, Cardiff.

1-5pm, £35. Info 029 2022 0349. One-day course on the first Saturday of every month this year. uPottery Summer School Peak, The Old School,

Crickhowell. 10am-3pm, £185 (five days). Info 01873 811579.

Martin Craddock. (Until Wed 7) The Bone Yard – One Last Time! The Bone Yard, Pontcanna, Cardiff. 12-8pm, free. Info 07738 092524. Final version of the regular market here on the first Saturday of the month, until The Bone Yard moves to a different site.

As such it’ll be bigger than normal and feature DJ sets and live music.

Welsh Vegan Festival Tramshed, Cardiff. 10am, £3.

Info 029 2023 5555. Organised by and/or in aid of Farplace Animal Rescue.

SUNDAY 4 AUGUST Echoing Sound & Weave Course Mission Gallery, Swansea. 11am-4pm, £150 (four sessions). Info 01792 652016. Adult workshop. uHave Fun / Meet New People Grangetown Community Choir Cornwall Street Baptist Church Hall.

Grangetown, Cardiff. 7.309.30pm, £10 per session/£80 for 12 sessions. Info paulinedown7@gmail.com.

With Pauline Down, every Monday this summer.

Juicy Sound Bath Aberystwyth Arts Centre.

5pm, £12. Info 01970 623232. Presented by Stuart Hampton, who in the publicity photo for this event is shown playing a guitar as well as the customary range of gongs – not sure about this Stu! – and featuring, in the ticket price, a fruity drink from Rhiannon Taylor.

Rhiannon claims to be Wales’s first qualified natural juice therapist, and I for one

believe her. uPiggy Walking With A ‘Pig-Nic’ Senni Valley, Brecon Beacons. £30/£20 under-16s. Info 01874 749092. Take a pair of friendly Kune Kune pigs (from New Zealand, look a bit like Ewoks) for a walk, then return to the smallholding for refreshments. Also on Sat 10, Thurs 15, Tue 20, Sun 25 and Fri 30 this month. uWalk A Sheep Crai, Brecon Beacons National Park. £35/£25 under-16s.

Info 01874 749092. Take a sheep for a walk on a lead in a 200-acre organic farm. A Good Day Out event. Also on Sun 18, Sun 25 and Sat 31 this month.

MONDAY 5 AUGUST Storytime with Louby Lou Bedwellty House, Tredegar. 11am, £7. Info 01495 355945. Interactive storytelling for kids.

TUESDAY 6 AUGUST Board Games The Gate, Cardiff. 6.30-11pm, £3.50.

Info 029 2048 3344. Hosted

by Rules Of Play on the first Tuesday of every month. uFilmmaking Course Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff.

10am-4pm, £120 (five days).

Info 029 2030 4400. Aimed at ages 9-14, participants will learn the practical elements involved in planning, filming and editing their own short film. On from 12-5pm on Sat 10. (Until Sat 10) Holiday Memory: Letters & Postcards Dylan Thomas Centre, Swansea. 1-4pm, free (£3 suggested donation). Info 01792 463980. Family drop-in BUZZ 67

workshop. There are Holiday Memory workshops running all summer here, until Sun 1 Sept to be exact.

Kids’ History Festival: Victorian Crafts & Games Castell Coch, nr Cardiff.

11-4pm, free after admission to site. Info 029 2081 0101.

Nature Prints! Cyfarthfa Castle, Merthyr Tydfil. 11am1pm + 2-4pm. Info 01685 727371. Drop-in workshops on how to make cyanotype images.

Owl Encounter Brecon Beacons National Park. £30/£20 under-16s. Info 01874 749092. Two-hour session in a barn in the Beacons handling and flying at least four owl species under the guidance of a conservation enthusiast. A Good Day Out Event. uUplift Singing Sessions Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon.

12.30-1.30pm, £5/£4. Info 01874 611622. Every Tuesday this month.

WEDNESDAY 7 AUGUST uArt About Town Workshops Carnegie House, Bridgend. 11am-12.30pm.

Info 01656 815757. Kids’ workshops every Wednesday this month, with a different artistic process each week.

Today is compose and colour; Wed 14 is building; Wed 21 fabric painting and Wed 28 the chance to paint the future you dream of, in tribute to Martin Luther King. uBat Walks National History Museum, St Fagans.

9pm, £5. Info 029 2057 3500.

Afterdark journey looking for bats. Dress up sensibly and bring a torch. Also on Wed 14, Thurs 22 and Wed 28.

Conservation And Collections Care National History Museum, St Fagans.

11am-1pm + 2-3pm, free. Info 029 2057 3500. The museum’s cxonservationan volunteers demonstrate their skills.

Country Games Day Gower Heritage Centre, Swansea.

10am-5.30pm. Info 01792 371206. Old timey kids’ games from before they all rotted their brains with bleepy gizmos and nos balloons. uFamily Crafts Museum Of Cardiff, The Hayes, Cardiff.

10am-3pm, £1. Info 029 2034 6214. Summer holiday drop-in sessions, also on Wed 14 and Wed 28 this month.

Full Steam Ahead National Waterfront Museum, Swansea.

11am-3pm, free. Info 029 2057 3600. See the Penydarren steam locomotive replica drive down the track. uGadget Camp The Riverfront, Newport. 10am12.30pm, £10. Info 01633 656757. iPad-based interactive workshop incorporating stop motion animation, Sphero and Lego. Also on Wed 14 and Wed 28 uHissy Handling Session National Museum Cardiff.

11am, 1pm + 3pm, £5 adv.

Info 029 2039 7951. Or snake handling sessions, if you can live without alliteration.

First two sessions today are in English; the 3pm one is in Welsh. Every Wednesday this month. uKids’ History Festival: History Live! Cilgerran BUZZ 68

Castle, Pembrokeshire.

11-4pm, free after admission to site. Info 01239 621339. On tomorrow also.

Kids’ History Festival: Legends Of The Sea Crafternoon Strata Florida Abbey, nr Tregaron. 1-4.30pm, free after admission to site.

Info 01974 831261.

National Play Day: Grow!

National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 10am-1.30pm, free.

Info 029 2057 3600. Games, crafts and circus skills.

Reminiscence Monthly Museum Of Cardiff, The Hayes, Cardiff. 11am-1pm, free. Info 029 2034 6214. Come to the museum and share your memories of Cardiff, on the first Wednesday of every month. Museum Of Cardiff is the new name for Cardiff Story. uScriveners Writers’ Group The Badminton Club, Ebbw Vale. 8pm. Info 01495 309863 / burningcanary@ aol.com. Also on Wed 21 this month.

Soulful Sunrise Summer Fiesta Big Moose Coffee Co, Cardiff. 6-9am, £10-£15 adv/ free under-12s. Info leah@ leahsiandavies.co.uk. Various wholesome activities to help you keep it posi before you go to work or whatever.

Summer Stories Creative Writing Workshop Dylan Thomas Centre, Swansea.

1-3pm, free (£3 suggested donation). Info 01792 463980.

With Eloise Williams/ For ages 10-14.

Vale Of Glamorgan Agricultural Show Fonmon Castle Park, Vale Of Glamorgan. 8.30am-7.30pm, £12/£10 adv (kids £5). Info www.valeofglamorganshow. co.uk. Featuring over 200 trade stands, displays, produce for sale etc. uWelsh Wrestling De Valence Pavilion, Tenby. 7.309.30pm, from £7.50. Info 01834 218228. Also here on Wed 14. uWildlife Wednesday Parc Bryn Bach, Tredegar. 10.30a Shift Cardiff m-2.30pm, free.

Info 01495 355945. Blaenau Gwent Council’s Green Team present nature-related activities including pond dipping and a nature walk. This one is fully booked but it’s also on Wed 14, which you can still book as I type.

THURSDAY 8 AUGUST Kids’ History Festival: Roman Sword Make And Take Day Caerleon Roman Fortress And Baths. 10am4pm, free after admission to site. Info 01633 422518.

LGBT+ Single Mingle Beelzebub’s, Cardiff. 7.3010.30pm, £3. Info events@ craftydevilbrewing.co.uk. New monthly event here, open to anyone who identifies as LGBT+ and is looking for a bunkup or maybe just a pal.

Summer Craft Club M.A.D.E. Gallery, Cardiff.

10am-3.30pm, £30-£35. Info larkdesignmake@gmail.com.

Lark Design Make craft workshop for ages 7-12.

FRIDAY 9 AUGUST I Can... Animate Glynn Vivian Art Gallery, Swansea.

10.30am-1pm, free (suggested

donation £3). Info 01792 516900.

Maciek Pysz Ty Helyg Lounge, Brecon. 1-1.55pm, £8/£6 adv. Info info@ breconjazz.org. Brecon Jazz event, the opening one of a weekend running until Sun 11 – you’ll find the rest in the Live Music listings, this however is a talk by jazz guitarist Pysz about his life and work. uRooftop BBQ Celtic Manor, nr Newport. £35/£17.50 kids.

Info 01633 413000. Held on the rooftop terrace here, this will feature both grilled food and live music over two weekends this month. (Until Sun 11, and from Fri 23-Mon 26) uUcele Yoga: Yin Yoga Class Natural Health Service, Swansea. 7.30-9pm, £8/£4 for your first class. Info facebook. com/victoriauceleyoga. Quiet, mindful yoga open to all. Here every fortnight; also on Fri 23 this month.

SATURDAY 10 AUGUST BAME Pride Cathays Community Centre, Cardiff.

3-6pm, free. Info 029 2037 3144. Described as “Wales’ first ever celebration of Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic LGBT+ people, friends and

www.depotcardiff.co.uk. Both “refreshing rum-based beverages” and a “relaxing offbeat reggae rhythm section” are promised here. uKids’ History Festival: A Medieval Weekend Caerphilly Castle. 10am-5pm, £5.30-£8.90/free members, disabled people and their companions. Info 0300 0256000. Archery shows, a weapons show, Sword School and hands-on weapons and armour display throughout the day. On tomorrow also.

Meet The Objects: Gilbern Anniversary National History Museum, St Fagans.

11.30am, 1pm + 2.30pm, free.

Info 029 2057 3500. The 60th anniversary, specifically, of the obscure and long discontinued Gilbern cars from Wales.

Minibeasts Workshop National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 12 + 2pm, £3.50.

Info 029 2057 3600. Hang out with snakes, geckos, snails and suchlike. Presented in association with Plantasia.

Nimble Fingers Craft Fayre Victoria Hall, Mumbles, Swansea. 10am-4pm, free. Info 07790 298913. On the second Saturday of every month. uSeafaring Pirate

Starting on Bute Street at midday on Sun 25 Aug, and wending its way up to Loudon Square, the Butetown Carnival Parade is a longstanding summer staple of this Cardiff district’s community. It disappeared for a few years but is back in business, blessedly.

today are in English; the 3pm one is in Welsh.

Ynyswen Craft Show Ynyswen Welfare Hall, Treorchy. 9am-4.30pm, £5 to set up a table. Info 01443 520299.

Younger People Speak Up Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 10.30am1pm, free. Info 0845 2263510.

Workshop with Welsh rapper/ poet Rufus Mufasa; aimed at ages 11-17.

SUNDAY 11 AUGUST Abfab Vegan Fairs Paget Rooms, Penarth. 1-5pm. Info 029 2070 0721. Organised by Sue Thomas and described as a “prehistoric family fun day”.

Graft Summer Garden Party National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 12-4pm, free. Info 029 2057 3600. Live music, games and crafts for kids.

Marina Market Dylan Thomas Square, Swansea.

10am-3pm, free. Info 029 2057 3600. Monthly event selling handcrafted goods and fresh food.

Mumbles Raft Racew 2019 Knab Rock, Mumbles, Swansea. 4-7pm, free. Info themumblesraftrace@gmail. com. Annual charity event in aid of the The Mumbles Lifeboat RNLI. Spice Wales: Walk & Talk The Angel Inn, Pontneddfechan, nr Neath (starting point). 11.30am, free.

Info 029 2111 1058. Social walk along the Elidir Trail waterfall, courtesy of Spice Wales.

Wildlife Walks: Bug HuntNational History Museum, St Fagans. 2-3.30pm, free. Info 029 2057 3500. With the Wildlife Trust Of South & West Wales.

MONDAY 12 AUGUST

allies”, this will feature live performances, a fashion show and food and drink.

Chepstow Show Chepstow Racecourse. £10/£8 OAP/£4 under-17s/free under-5s. Info chepstowshow@hotmail. co.uk. Annual agricultural and related events and showcases hosted by Chepstow Agricultural Society.

Film Focus 3.0: Soviet The Andrew Buchan, Cardiff.

8pm, free. Info 029 2021 2509.

Exploring a selection of early film classics tied to various themes, this week exploring some 1920s/30s Soviet canon classics.

Funky Craft Fayre Ostreme Centre, Mumbles, Swansea.

10am-4pm. Info nigel.mason@ ntlworld.com. Second Saturday of every month. uHave A Go Archery Caldicot Castle & Country Park. £1.50 per four arrows.

Info 01291 420241. On tomorrow also. uHedgehog Experience West Wales Hedgehog Rescue, Lampeter. £45. Info 01874 749092. Be a volunteer at a hedgehog rescue for three hours as part of a very small group. A Good Day Out event.

Also on Wed 14, Sat 24 and Wed 28 this month.

It’s A Rum Ting The Depot, Cardiff. 5-11pm, £7 adv. Info

Adventure Weekend National Botanic Garden Of Wales, Llanarthne, Carmarthenshire. 11am-5pm.

Info 01558 667149. Family event, on tomorrow also. Make your own treasure chest, join in the pirate games and search for treasure.

Spoken Word Saturday Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 3pm, £3. Info 0845 2263510.

Street Food And Live Music Kings Road Yard, Pontcanna, Cardiff. 4-10pm, free. Info 07773 348655. Every second Saturday of the month until October.

Summer Cider Cycle Various locations, Llanwrtyd Wells. Info 01591 610270. A fun bike ride of 14-25 miles, wherein you drink cider here and there: either Ralph’s or an obscure new name calling itself ‘Strongbow’. Post-cycle there’ll be live music (and cider) in town.

The Adder: Misunderstood Treasure Of The Countryside National Museum Cardiff. 2pm, free.

Info 029 2039 7951. Family talk about the only venomous snakes native to Wales.

Venom National Museum Cardiff. 11am, 1pm + 3pm, £5 adv. Info 029 2039 7951.

Snake-themed interactive family day. First two sessions

uMid Wales Dance Academy Summer School Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon.

10am-5pm, £110 (five days).

Info 01874 611622. Different styles of dance will be explored culminating in a performance at the end of the week. (Until Fri 16) TUESDAY 13 AUGUST Holiday Memory: Story Suitcase Game Dylan Thomas Centre, Swansea.

1-4pm, free (£3 suggested donation). Info 01792 463980.

Pablo Escobar: The Real Story Portland House, Cardiff Bay. 7-9pm, £12 adv. Info 029 2048 7602. Funzing talk by Shaun Attwood, who like Pablo Escobar made lots of money supplying class A drugs, and unlike Pablo Escobar now tours schools telling kids not to do drugs.

Shibori Dye Workshop M.A.D.E. Gallery, Cardiff.

1-3pm + 6.30-8.30pm, £25 per session. Info larkdesignmake@gmail. com. Lark Design Make craft workshop.

WEDNESDAY 14 AUGUST Beach Fun Day Gower Heritage Centre, Swansea.

Free. Info 01792 371206. It’s not at the actual beach but it will be full of sand and feature

appropriate activities for the family.

Holiday Memory: Creative Writing Workshop Dylan Thomas Centre, Swansea.

10.30am-12.30pm, free (£3 suggested donation). Info 01792 463980. Hosted by author Wendy White and aimed at ages 6-10. uScandinavian Language Meetup Group The Philharmonic, Cardiff. 7pm, free. Info meetup.com. Every three weeks.

Summer Of Diverse II Kuku Club, Cardiff. 7-10pm, £12.99 adv. Info abbylouisethomas@hotmail. co.uk. Fashion show aiming to show, according to its organiser, that “all kinds of sizes, colours, heights and shapes are all beauty and unique.”

Sunset Cinema; Jurassic Park Pembroke Castle. 7pm, £13/£11 adv. Info 01646 695267.Outdoor screening presented by the Torch Theatre.

Tea Dance Brangwyn Hall, Swansea. 2-4pm, £7 adv. Info 01792 475715. With Phillip and Garnor Evans.

THURSDAY 15 AUGUST Book Club The Gate, Cardiff.

8pm, free. Info 029 2048 3344.

Third Tuesday of every month.

Booklaunch: Jo Thomas Griffin Books, Penarth. 6-8pm, £5. Info 029 2070 6455.

Launching her new Sicilyset novel My Lemon Grove Summer. uBug Boxes National Wool Museum, Dre-fach Felindre.

12-3pm, free. Info 029 2057 3600. Drop-in Scrappy Sheep craft session in which you turn a takeaway box into, er, a box you put bugs in. On tomorrow also. uGraft Craft – Bee Bookmarks National Waterfront Museum, Swansea.

12.30-3.30pm, free. Info 029 2057 3600. Also on Fri 16, Sat 17 and Mon 19.

Japanese Language Meetup Group The Philharmonic, Cardiff. 7pm, free. Info meetup.com. Every three weeks; also on Thurs 25 this month.

Law And Disorder During The Black Death National Waterfront Museum, Swansea.

11am, free. Info 029 2057 3600.

Lecture by Stephanie Brown.

Open Mic Poetry Night Imperial Hotel, Merthyr Tydfil.

7.30pm, free. Info 01685 722555. With guest poet Ness Owen launching her new poetry collection Mamiaeth.. uWelsh Kennel Club Dog Show Royal Welsh Showground, Llanelwedd, Builth Wells. 1-4pm. Info 01446 792457. Including various categories on different days, plus agility and obedience competitions. The WKC’s website (thewelshkennelclub.org) is really hard to read but maybe you’ll make more sense of it than me. (Until Tue 20) FRIDAY 16 AUGUST uBeer Festival Bluestone Brewing Company, Newport, Pembrokeshire. 12pm, free.

Info 01239 820833. Local ale makers serve their own produce plus pizza and live music tonight and tomorrow (12-6pm).

I Can... Paint Glynn Vivian Art Gallery, Swansea. 10.30am1pm, free (suggested donation £3). Info 01792 516900.

Talk: Gerald Gabb Attic Gallery, Swansea. 6-8pm, free.

Info 01792 653387. On the subject of ‘Some Pre-Victorian Artists And Swansea’. uVolksfest Wales 2019 Watton Show Fields, Brecon.

6pm, £35 weekend/free under16s. Info www.volksfest.wales.

Volks = people’s. Fest = fest.

More specifically, this is a three-day gathering of vintage Volkswagen enthusiasts with lots of extra entertainment.

(Until Sun 18) SATURDAY 17 AUGUST An Evening With Swansea Legends Patti Pavilion, Swansea. 7pm, £40 adv. Info 01792 475444. As in Swansea City FC, the legends being Alan Curtis, Lee Trundle, Alan Tate and Andy Robinson, plus compere Kevin Johns and live music from Woolfey.

Brechfa Trail Half Marathon, 10k & 5k Bergwym Brechfa Forest, Carmarthenshire. 11am-4pm, £14-£32 to enter/free to spectate. Info info@ toughrunneruk.com. Hosted by Tough Runner UK. Brecon Craft Fair Market Hall, Brecon. 9am-4.30pm.

Info 01495 753782. Every third Saturday of the month. uBrewstock 2 Tenby Brewing Co, Tenby. 3pm, £25 weekend/£15 per day. Info 01834 218090. Beer festival from local craft company, with live music from Dirty S Collective, Honey Fungus and Meister plus DJ sets (today) and Black Key & The White Notes, Glue, The Sun Dogs and more DJ sets (tomorrow). uCadstock 2019 Victoria Park, Cadoxton, nr Barry.

12-6pm, free. Info www. valeofglamorgan.gov.uk. Live music on the bandstand plus other entertainment. On tomorrow also.

Cardigan River & Food Festival Quay Street carpark, Cardigan. 10am-5pm. Info 01239 615554. Featuring food and drink stalls, cookery demos, entertainment etc.

Annual event.

Drawing Made Easy: Urban Sketching Workshop Llantarnam Grange Arts Centre, Cwmbran.

2-4pm, £15. Info 07876 014902.

Hosted by Julian Merriman.

Family Fun Day Glynn Vivian Art Gallery, Swansea.

10am-4pm, free (suggested donation £3). Info 01792 516900. Art and craft activities, specifically Saturday Art Club (10am-1pm, age 6-11); Yaoguai Creatures Shadow Puppet Workshop; (10.30am-1.pm) and Young Makers (2-4pm, age 12-16). Book the first and third of those in advance please.

Flats & Shanks Walkabout, Cardiff. 9.30pm, from £9 adv.

Info 029 2072 7930. “Popular Rugby podcasters and former professionals David Flatman and Tom Shanklin will be giving you all their thoughts, views and jokes on the upcoming Rugby World Cup in Japan.” Ticket price includes a drink. uKids’ History Festival:

Tudor Takeover Tintern Abbey, Monmouthshire.

10.30am-5pm, free after admission to site. Info 01291 689251.

On tomorrow also.

Llantwit Major Flower And Vegetable Show Llantonian Hall, Llantwit Major. 2-5pm, £1/20p under-5s.

Info www.valeofglamorgan.gov. uk. Featuring prizes and raffles as well as all the displays of produce. Not many things cost 20p these days, especially not things listed in Buzz.

Saturday Socials Bridge Studios, Western Avenue, Cardiff 12-8pm, free. Info 07738 092524. Craft beer bar, street food, crafts and makers market. Also on Sat 21 Sept next month.

St Fagans Real Food Market National History Museum, St Fagans. 11am4pm, free. Info 029 2057 3500.

With Riverside Real Food.

Thai Inspired Street Food Margam Park, nr Port Talbot.

12-5pm, free. Info 01639 881635. Clip-on Thai, you might call it. uTournament Of The Knights Cardiff Castle. 10am5pm, £3-£7. Info 029 2087 8100. Medieval style combat displays plus other period-specific supplementary entertainment. On tomorrow also.

Wake Up And Sing Ceridwen Centre, Llandyssul, Carmarthenshire. 10.30am4.30pm, £25 adv. Info 01559 370517. Swansea-based voice tutor/choir leader Kate Davies leads a day in which particpants sing a variety of music from Britain and around the world.

SUNDAY 18 AUGUST NES, Nibbles & Boardgames Night Ocean Arts Cardiff, Cardiff Bay. 8-11.30pm, free. Info oceanartscardiff@gmx.co.uk.

Retro social event – other consoles are available (Xbox and Gamecube, specifically).

Sheepdog Experience Venue TBC, nr Crickhowell. £25. Info 01874 749092. Learn how to command a Welsh collie moving sheep around a field with a young local shepherd who competes nationally in sheepdog trials and trains young dogs. A Good Day Out event.

Souls Awakening Family Mind Body Spirit Festival Insole Court, Llandaff, Cardiff. 10am-5pm, £5/£2.50 kids. Info 029 2116 7920.

“Holistic Therapies Room, Psychic & Clairvoyant Readers, Runes, Numerology, Spiritual & Psychic Art, Aura Photography, Naturopathic Health & Wellbeing, Crystals, Jewellery, Clothing, Spiritual Gifts, Incense, Henna Tattoos, Sound Therapy, Natural Cosmetics, Books, Salt Lamps and much more.”

Thrifty Sew ‘n’ Sews Club Ocean Arts Cardiff, Cardiff Bay. 7-11.30pm, free. Info oceanartscardiff@gmx.co.uk.

Sewing and altering social event, aiming to stop people buying sweatshop clothes and generally be more sustainable.

MONDAY 19 AUGUST Animal Fun Bedwellty Park,

Tredegar. 11.30am-4.25pm, £9.50. Info 01495 355945.

Interactive storytelling for kids. uMedieval Fun Week Gower Heritage Centre, Swansea. 10am-5.30pm. Info 01792 371206. Storytelling, knight training, swordfighting and other reenactment type things all week. (Until Sun 25) uPrintmaking Summer School Peak, The Old School, Crickhowell. 10am-3pm, £185 (five days). Info 01873 811579.

Hannah Firmin. (Until Fri 23) TUESDAY 20 AUGUST Holiday Memory: Holiday Comic Book Dylan Thomas Centre, Swansea. 1-4pm, free (£3 suggested donation). Info 01792 463980. For ages 8+.

WEDNESDAY 21 AUGUST Art History Lectures: Edward Hopper Penarth Pier Pavilion. 7-9pm, £15 adv.

Info 029 2071 2100. American realist painter of note is discussed by Stella Grace Lyons.

Price includes a glass of wine.

Craft And Family Film Time Museum Of Cardiff, The Hayes, Cardiff. 10am-2.30pm, £1. Info 029 2034 6214. Drop-

Weekend Civic Centre, Cardiff. 6pm, £5-£10 per day/£30 VIP Sat 24 or Sun 25.

Info www.pridecymru.com.

LGBT+ weekender returnsd for its 20th birthday edition.

Today features tributes to Bruno Mars, Dolly Parton, Pink, Lady Gag, plus cabaret from local drag queens plus headliner Charlie Hides. Sat 24: Texas, Gok Wan (DJ set), Shellyann, Tina Cousins, Jordan Gray, Rothwell, Victors, Thomas Pound, Dr Bev & Miss Kitty, the Admiral Choir, Pride’s Got Talent London and Cardiff winners, The Valli Boys (a Frankie Valli tribute band – there is literally no escape in south Wales), Jordan and Olivia, plus a Cabaret Stage with local and national drag acts. Sun 25: musical theatre in the daytime, acts TBC. (Until Sun 25) SATURDAY 24 AUGUST An Evening With Wales & Lions Legends Caerphilly RFC. 6.30-11.30pm, £40. Info www.megaday.net. Featuring Shane Williams, Martyn Williams and Andy Powell. In aid of Velindre Cancer Centre; presented by Megaday, who are doing a music festival tomor-

Following a successful opening year, Llancaich Fawr Manor in Caerphilly is the landlubbery location for the second Brotherhood Of The Black pirate festival on Sat 31 Aug and Sun 1 Sept. Lots of dressing up and live music from people dressed up. in craft session untiol midday followed by a screening of The Road To El Dorado.

THURSDAY 22 AUGUST uRope Making National Waterfront Museum, Swansea.

12.30-3.30pm, free. Info 029 2057 3600. Using a 19thcentury rope machine. (Until Sat 24) uSwansea Bay Beer & Cider Festival Brangwyn Hall, Swansea. 5-11pm, £5/£3 CAMRA members. Info 01792 475715. Annual event at this venue, hosted by Swansea CAMRA and featuring over 150 real ales and ciders. On from 12-11pm tomorrow and Sat 24.

(Until Sat 24) FRIDAY 23 AUGUST I Can... Print Glynn Vivian Art Gallery, Swansea. 10.30am1pm, free (suggested donation £3). Info 01792 516900.

Kate Noakes + Quirk The Globe At Hay, Hay-On-Wye. 8pm, free. Info 01497 821762.

Poetry readings. Noakes is also taking a poetry workshop at 4pm today, costing £5.

Lipstick & Lip Balm Making M.A.D.E. Gallery, Cardiff. 6.30-8.30pm, £25. Info larkdesignmake@gmail.com.

Lark Design Make workshop. uPride Cymru’s Big

row (see Live Music listings).

Back To Basics Course The Printhaus, Canton, Cardiff.

10am-4pm, £60. Info 029 2022 0349. One-day course, on the last Saturday of every month this year. Apart from this month I guess. uBank Holiday Beer Fest The Depot, Cardiff. 12-11pm, £5 adv per day/£8 both days.

Info www.depotcardiff.co.uk.

Promising 25 breweries/cider makers plus street food. On tomorrow also.

Bog Triathlon Waen Rhyd bog, Llanwrtyd Wells. 11am, £15 to enter/£25 per team of three. Info 01591 610270.

Featuring an eight-mile run followed by two lengths of the 60-yard peat bog trench and then a 12-mile mountain bike ride.

Life Drawing Peak, The Old School, Crickhowell. 10am3pm, £25. Info 01873 811579.

With Tony Tribe.

Lollipop Promo Cardiff Pride Afterparty 2019 Café Jazz, Cardiff. Free. Info 029 2038 7026. Acts including drag artist Ruby Slippers, DJs Kim and DJ Stephen Owen plus the winner of some sort of competition.

Pig Street Craft Fair The Queens Hall, Narberth. 10am4pm, free. Info enquiries@ pigstreetcrafts.co.uk. Selling

original arts and crafts here most months until Christmas.

Pirate Party National Waterfront Museum, Swansea.

12-4pm, free. Info 029 2057 3600. Crafts, storytelling etc.

SUNDAY 25 AUGUST Butetown Carnival Parade Wales Millenium Centre, Cardiff Bay (starting point).

12pm, free. Info 07952 296633.

Annual event (albeit one that’s skipped the odd year) for the Butetown community, to give it its proper/pre-Cardiff Bay name, which will travel up Bute Street to Loudoun Square.

Pontcanna Brocante Kings Road Yard, Pontcanna, Cardiff.

10am-4pm, free. Info 07773 348655. Vintage flea market, every last Sunday of the month until October. uScratch & Sniff Treasure Maps National Waterfront Museum, Swansea.

12-3.30pm, free. Info 029 2057 3600. Craft activities. They don’t smell of pirates, who were almost certainly disgusting, but spices. On tomorrow also.

World Bogsnorkelling Championships Waen Rhyd bog, Llanwrtyd Wells. 10am.

Info 01591 610270. Annual event here in mid-Wales which attracts hundreds of participants.

MONDAY 26 AUGUST Bank Holiday Free Fun Fair Big Family Raceday Chepstow Racecourse. 12pm, from £15. Info 0844 2491000.

Includding seven races and the chance to meet giant dinosaurs, no less.

Fisherman’s Tales National Waterfront Museum, Swansea.

12, 1 + 3.30pm, free. Info 029 2057 3600.

Making Fossils Big Pit National Coal Museum, Blaenafon. 11am-4pm, £1 per fossil. Info 029 2057 3650.

Not in the authentic manner, obviously.

Traditional Fishing National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 11-4pm, free. Info 029 2057 3600. Learning about it more than doing it. It wouldn’t be very traditional to go fishing in a museum.

Featuring hands-on netmaking, a coracle display and The Blackrock Lave Netsmen of the Severn Estuary.

TUESDAY 27 AUGUST Ekphrastic Writing Group The Gate, Cardiff. 7-45-9.30pm, free. Info 029 2048 3344.

Readings and discussions. On the fourth Tuesday of every month.

Film Activity Day: The Lion King Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 10am-3.30pm, £22. Info 029 2030 4400. Arts and craft day inspired by themes and characters from the world of this film.

WEDNESDAY 28 AUGUST Adult Industry: Reality In The Life Of The Performer Portland House, Cardiff Bay. 7-9pm, £12 adv. Info 029 2048 7602. Funzing talk by a former porn star named Rachel. “Not her real name, obvs,” adds

the listing for this. Pretty sure lots of retired bongo actors are happy to let people know their real names, though, so this doesn’t seem that obvious really.

Art History Lectures: Andrew Wyeth Penarth Pier Pavilion. 7-9pm, £15 adv. Info 029 2071 2100. Followup to the Wed 21 lecture; another American realist painter is discussed by Stella Grace Lyons.

Price includes a glass of wine.

Film Activity Day: The Playmobil Movie Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 10am3.30pm, £22. Info 029 2030 4400. Arts and craft day inspired by themes and characters from the world of this film.

Memo Board Making M.A.D.E. Gallery, Cardiff. 6.308.30pm, £20. Info larkdesignmake@gmail.com.

Lark Design Make workshop.

THURSDAY 29 AUGUST uGraft Craft: Plant Hammering! National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. 12.30-3.30pm, free. Info 029 2057 3600. “An amazing craft that transfers a flower’s natural pigment onto fabric at the tap of a hammer,” it says here. (Until Sun 1 Sept) Lyrical Miracles NosDa, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info 029 2037 8866. Spoken word.

FRIDAY 30 AUGUST Art Lunchtime Talk: David Nash National Museum Cardiff. 1pm, free. Info 029 2039 7951. With Nicholas Thornton.

SATURDAY 31 AUGUST uBrotherhood Of The Black Pirate Festival Llancaiach Fawr Manor, nr Caerphilly. £11 weekend (£5 kids); £6 Sat or Sun only (£3 kids); free under-5s. Info 07411 132940. Featuring lots of people dressed up as pirates, burlesque dancers, wandering minstrels, ferret racing and live music from The Captain’s Beard, Jolly Roger and Gallows Revivers. On tomorrow also.

Craft Fair Community Hall, Neath. 10am-3.30pm. Info ariancrafts@hotmail.co.uk.

Life Drawing Glynn Vivian Art Gallery, Swansea. 2-4pm, £5. Info 01792 516900.

The End Of Summer Slam Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff.

8-10pm, £5. Info 029 2030 4400. Slam poetry, standup comedy, spoken word and music, written and performed by people aged 15-24.

Weekend Adult Workshop Glynn Vivian Art Gallery, Swansea. 10am-1pm, £5. Info 01792 516900. A class for people of all abilities to create art in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. This month participants can try creative animation, taking inspiration from the Hand Drawn Action Packed exhibition currently showing here.

Wrestling: NXT UK TakeOver Motorpoint Arena Cardiff. 5pm, £41.80. Info 029 2022 4488. WWE spinoff has its second ever UK showcase, and first in Cardiff, with BUZZ 69

* – recommended appearances from Walter, NXT Toni Storm, the Grizzled Young Veterans, Pete Dunne, Tyler Bate and Trent Seven among others. It’s followed on Sun 1 Sept by NXT UK Live, not sure how that differs precisely.

live THURSDAY 1 AUGUST Black Peaches + DD Darillo The Big Top, Cardiff.

7.30pm, £10 adv. Info 029 2022 8883. Funky Latin indie stuff fronted by someone who was in Hot Chip.

ConunDrum Theatr Gwain, Fishguard. 11am, £1-£10. Info 07474 072118.

Fishguard Music Festival event, interactive and aimed at families. The festival in question started in late July, taking place across various Pembrokeshire venues, and finishes tomorrow.

Eädyth x Shamoniks The Moon, Cardiff. 7.30pm, free.

Info info@themooncardiff. com. Launch gig for an album which you can read more about in the Ones To Watch section this month. Presented

by Pyst and featuring Ladies Of Rage members contributing in undisclosed ways.

Jane’s Calamity Porter’s, Cardiff. 8pm. Info info@ porterscardiff.com. Monthly singalong around the piano.

Joel Frank The Stable, Cardiff. 7pm, free. Info 029 2022 1721. Acoustic session in the pizza joint under the Admiral building.

Lecu + Quartz Blue Honey Local, Roath, Cardiff. 7-10pm, £5 suggested donation. Info 029 2019 5463. Live electronic music from a solo artist and duo respectively.

Musicfest 2019: Evening Concert Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 8pm, £20/£18. Info 01970 623232. Recitals of music by Huw Watkins, Schumann and Schubert. The annual Musicfest series of concerts started in late July and run until Sat 3.

Musicfest 2019: Lunchtime Concert The Old College, Aberystwyth.

1.30pm, £14/£12. Info 01970 623232. Featuring the Sacconi Quartet.

Newport Music Society Concert Ebenezer Chapel, Newport, Pembrokeshire.

7.30pm, £1-£10. Info 07474 072118. Fishguard Music Festival event.

Ocean Mic Ocean Arts Cardiff, Cardiff Bay. 8-11.30pm, £5/£3. Info oceanartscardiff@gmx.co.uk.

Monthly open mic night with a different host each month. uOpen Mic Cellar Bar, Cardigan. 7.30pm, free.

Info 07818 056599. Every Thursday this month.

Porcelain Hill + Hobgoblin + Mojo Phono The Bunkhouse, Swansea.

7.30pm, £5/£3 adv. Info info@bunkhousebar.co.uk.

Headliners are a Californian hard rock band who listed of stated influences reads like a middle-aged divorcee’s CD collection.

Sexy Pretty Things + Black3lvis + BoxCat + Aaron Hopkins Fuel Rock Club, Cardiff. 7pm, £5/£3. Info 07970 063107. Isle Of Wight rock band on their Standing Ovulation tour. Nice wordplay Phil (Skin Splitter), Jacob (Low End Rambler), Stu (Banjo Gringo) and Jack (Douche Bag)! In Swansea tomorrow.

Stanley Strong The Pear Tree, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info 029 2025 2042.

The Joy Formidable + Mellt Bute Park, Cardiff.

7pm, free. Info homelessworldcup.org.

Playing outside as part of the Homeless World Cup events in this park; further gigs are on tomorrow and Sat 3.

FRIDAY 2 AUGUST 360 Degrees Ty Newydd, Barry. 9pm, free. Info 01446 407767.

All Consumed + Autocracy The Green Rooms, Treforest. 7pm. Info 01443 841133. Death metal and melodic metal.

Backstreet Thunder McCanns Rock N Ale Bar, Newport. 9pm, free. Info 01633 253648. Thunder tribute band, in Swansea tomorrow.

Beyond Oblivion + Urfe + Electus The Dragonffli, Pontypool. 7pm, £2. Info gigs@thedragonffli.com.

Bruce Anderson The Plough, Whitchurch, Cardiff. 9pm, free.

Info 029 2062 3017.

Celtic Pride Cross Keys Hotel, Neath. 8.30pm, free. Info 01639 643927.

Hang 11 + Addiction + Fathom Jac’s, Aberdare.

7.30pm, £3. Info 01685 879491.

Joe Kelly & The Royal Pharmacy + Bryony Sier The Phyllis Maud Performance Space, Newport. 7.30pm, £10 adv. Info 01633 673739. Folkrockin’ type stuff in this small but neat-looking microvenue that used to be a public convenience and holds 35 people.

Johnny Trashed The Lion, Chepstow. 8pm, free. Info 01291 630886. This is in the Smirnoff Bar, which I think is part of The Lion, also known as the White Lion – which also hosts live music in a room called Aunty Al’s. I’m sure it makes sense to people from Chepstow.

Junior + Raiders + Who Saves The Hero? Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7pm, £7. Info 029 2023 2199. Pop-punk band from Cardiff with a debut album out today. They have largely passed me by I must admit. Assume they’d have contacted Buzz at some point if they were fussed. uLanded Festival Doldowlod Estate, nr Rhayader, Powys. 10am, £70 adv. Info enquiries@ landedfestival.co.uk. Eclectic hippyish festival with several stages. Main stage: Paradox,

Cartoon Violence, Deadly Lightshades, Eff The Count, Monsterometer, Wide Open Spaces, 100,000 Body Bags (Fri 2); Yoko Pwno, Smoke Like A Fish, Bombskare, Chalk Outlines, Skalinskis, Reckless Breakfast, Rufus Mustafa (Sat 3); Lorainne, Zub Zub, Solana, Mama Jerk, Dirty Virtebrae, Tits Up and Excellent Skeleton (Sun 4). Verbal Melodies stage: Binbag Wisdom, Ask My Bull, Verbal Remedies, Funkd Up, Billy In The Low Ground, Freeborn Rising, Fossilheads, Xerru, News From Nowhere, The Warbirds, Verbal Melodies and Sonya Smith. Alphawave stage: Aneurin, Josheep, Chris P, Steffan Taylor and Alex Souloud (Fri 2); BLAP, Krash, Organchrist, Tom Algorithm, Bolschy, Boglin and Kelda And Raife (Sat 3); J-Tech, Jinal, Toby, Simoncelli, Minuten and Steptoe (Sun 4). Nefelibata stage: The Love!, Janelle Lawrence, Beth Lily, Moira, Just Jude, George Nash, Ioan Price, Dysfunction, Darbi, Toffees, Fortify, All The Good Names Are Gone, Unbrand3d and Kitty. Acoustic stage: Sango & Chef, Adrian Roper, Chris Money & Cosmic, Empire Of Lights, Taiko Drummers, Sonya Smith, Didge Beat George, Sleepy

Grace Williams’ Fantasia On Welsh Nursery Tunes.

Papur Wal + Charlotte Church’s Late Night Pop Dungeon Bute Park, Cardiff.

7pm, free. Info homelessworldcup.org.

Punchline Vivian Arms, Swansea. 9pm, free. Info 01792 516194.

Rats In The Kitchen Earl Haig Memorial Club, Cardiff.

7pm, £15 adv. Info 029 2062 6015. UB40 tribute band.

Sarah Brown The Stable, Cardiff. 7pm, free. Info 029 2022 1721.

She Made Me Do It + Starsha Lee + Scant Regard The Globe, Cardiff.

7.30pm, £6 adv. Info 07590 471888. Headliners feature two ex-members of bargain bin 90s Welsh glam rockers Rachel Stamp, in fact one of those members also opens proceedings as Scant Regard.

Sexy Pretty Things + Carolines + BoxCat + Those Exposed The Garage, Swansea. 7pm, £5. Info 01792 475147.

Slash & Myles UK Fuel Rock Club, Cardiff. 8pm, £6.

Info 07970 063107. Tribute to top-hatted GN’R guitarist and his latterday sideman. In Crumlin tomorrow.

Stop, Stop! + Saints Of

On Sat 10 Aug, Dare Valley Country Park in Aberdare is the perhaps unlikely setting for a Welsh rap battle tournament, titled BattleFest. Five head-toheads have been confirmed at the time of writing plus there are some guest sets.

Folk, Becca & Jake, The Modern World, Billy In The Low Ground, Johnathan Day, Luke Williams and Christian Punter. (Until Sun 4) Mangata The Duke Of Wellington, Cowbridge. 9.30pm, free. Info 01446 773592.

Musicfest 2019: Evening Concert Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 8pm, £20/£18. Info 01970 623232. Titled from From Vienna To Broadway, this evening’s programme is curated and performed by pianist Tom Poster.

Musicfest 2019: Lunchtime Recital The Old College, Aberystwyth. 1.30pm, £14/£12. Info 01970 623232.

Performances of Peter Maxwell Davies’ Eight Songs For A Mad King and a specially commissioned new work by Anna Semple.

National Youth Orchestra Of Wales St David’s Cathedral, Pembrokeshire.

7.30pm, £1-£25. Info 07474 072118. Final event of this year’s Fishguard Music Festival. Andrew Litton conducts a programme of Copland, Shostakovich and

Sin Hangar 18, Swansea.

7.30pm, £5 adv. Info enquiries@ hangar18musicvenue.co.uk. uThe 17th Dream Of Dr Sardonicus Cellar Bar, Cardigan. £65 (three days).

Info 07818 056599. Annual psych underground fest organised by local spacerockers Sendelica. It’s already sold out but here’s the deets in case you can somehow get a ticket in time. Today: Fellowship Of Hallucinatory Voyagers with special guest Paul Sax of Curved Air), Elfin Bow, The Lost Tuesday Society and a Kris Needs DJ set. Sat 3: Groundhogs, Sendelica, Chemistry Set, Alain Pire Experience, Moon Goose, Spurious Transients and a Fruits De Mer Records raffle.

Sun 4: The Bevis Frond, 3D Tanx, Mark McDowell, Sarah Birch and I Am Voyager One. (Until Sun 4) The Bohemians Lyric Theatre, Carmarthen. 7.30pm.

Info 0845 2263510. Queen tribute band. Sold out.

The Fugitives Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £4/£3. Info 029 2038 7026. Blues.

u – repeated

The Ultimate Classic Rock Show Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon. 7.30pm, £15/£13. Info 01874 611622.

World Vs World + Kikker + Christian Sayers Cinema & Co, Swansea. 7.30pm, £3.

Info 07982 624959.

SATURDAY 3 AUGUST 360 Degrees Birchgrove, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2031 1319.

A Tribute To Darrell Jenkins Gower Heritage Centre, Swansea. Info 01792 371206. Gower Bluegrass presetn a barndance/hoedown type night of live music paying respects to an associate of theirs who died late last year.

Backstreet Thunder Hangar 18, Swansea. 6pm, £10 adv. Info enquiries@ hangar18musicvenue.co.uk.

Begw + Louise & The Feathers Carmarthen Park Lodge, Carmarthen. 1.303.30pm, free. Info rewiredmusic@gmail.com.

Presented by Rewired Music.

Buzzard Buzzard Buzzard + Y Sybs Bute Park, Cardiff.

7pm, free. Info homelessworldcup.org.

Captain Accident & The Disasters Bluestone Brewing Company, Newport, Pembrokeshire. 8pm, £10 adv.

Info 01239 820833.

Chris Kelly The Mariners, Laugharne. 8.30pm, free. Info 01994 427688. In sister venue Browns tomorrow.

Eva Bartok + Mines + Only Fools And Corpses Creature Sound, Swansea.

7pm, £3. Info 01792 301178.

Foo Fakers The Dragonffli, Pontypool. 7pm, £6. Info gigs@thedragonffli.com. Foo Fighters tribute band.

Fragment Cockett Inn, Swansea. 9pm, free. Info 01792 588748.

Guardians Of Public Morality + Addiction Clwb Y Bont, Pontypridd. 8pm, £3.

Info 01443 491424. Presented

by DFTS. *Gutter Knife + Stiff Meds + Shishu Cathays Community Centre, Cardiff.

8pm, £5. Info 029 2037 3144.

Two great hardcore bands in the form of Brighton’s Gutter Knife and Wales’ Shishu, plus one I’ve not heard as they’re brand new but who sound good. uJon Crespo Quartet Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm. Info 029 2038 7026. Funk and Latin tunes, also on Sat 10 this month.

Musicfest 2019: Evening Concert Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 8pm, £24/£22. Info 01970 623232. This year’s final Musicfest event features the Orion Orchestra and pianist Tom Poster among other performers, tackling pieces by Poulenc and Schumann.

National Youth Orchestra Of Wales St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £16/£5 under25s. Info 029 2087 8444.

Off The Record Hen Dderwen, Swansea. 9pm, free.

Info 01792 203631.

Pi & Hash Showcase

NosDa, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info 029 2037 8866.

Primo Duo The Pod, Newport. 9.30pm. Info 01633 535440.

Ramon Goose Band Cwmbran RFC, Pontnewydd, Cwmbran. 7.30pm, £12. Info 01633 483238. Borough Blues Club gig.

Slash & Myles UK The Patriot, Crumlin. 8pm, £5. Info 01495 247178.

Stanley Strong The Red Dragon, Bridgend. 8.30pm, free. Info 01656 654753. The online listings for Nailed It, who are promoting this gig, also have Stanley listed as playing another Bridgend pub, The Pheasant, at the same time this evening. So all you Stanley Strong fans out there will just have to take your chances.

Stay Voiceless + Scarsun + Red Rooster Le Public Space, Newport. 7pm, £3. Info sam@lepub.co.uk.

SusiesBlues + Jeff Phillips Earl Haig Memorial Club, Cardiff. 7pm, £7 adv. Info 029 2062 6015. Jeff is doing a Neil Diamond tribute act.

The Magic Of Motown Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl.

7.30pm, £22.50-£26.50. Info 01656 815995. Tribute show.

The Pollen Count Rhondda Hotel, Porth. 7pm, £5 adv. Info 01443 682388.

The Rainbreakers The Globe At Hay, Hay-On-Wye. 8pm, £6. Info 01497 821762.

The Replicas Jac’s, Aberdare. 7.30pm, £3. Info 01685 879491. Rock and pop covers The Tony Breen Band The Roath Park, Cardiff. 8.30pm, free. Info 029 2047 1961.

Tie Fighter Pilot The Moon, Cardiff. 7pm, free. Info info@themooncardiff.com.

Whitesnake UK + Total Thunder The Globe, Cardiff.

7.30pm, £10 adv. Info 07590 471888. Two hard rock tribute bands.

Windshake + All Dead All Dead + Diggs + Kikker Sin City, Swansea. 7pm, £5/£3 adv. Info 01792 468892. Local bands play a show in this venue’s Hometown Shows series, which are running until Sat 7 Sept.

SUNDAY 4 AUGUST Abertillery Town Band Bedwellty Park Bandstand, Tredegar. 3-5pm. Info 01495 355945.

Angri Kidd + Guity Rascals + Riding Giants Jac’s, Aberdare. 5.30-9.30pm, £3. Info 01685 879491.

Bohemian Grove + Deference + In Depths + Sentry + Virtue In Vain + Good Morning Vietnam + Dreameater The Bunkhouse, Swansea. 6.30pm, £7/£5 adv.

Info info@bunkhousebar. co.uk.

Brenig Carmarthen Park Lodge, Carmarthen. 1.303.30pm, free. Info rewiredmusic@gmail.com.

Presented by Rewired Music.

Chris Kelly Browns, Laugharne. 3pm, free. Info

JUST ANNOUNCED FOR SEPTEMBER: YELLOWMAN (The Globe, Cardiff, Sun 1) JEFFREY LEWIS & THE VOLTAGE (Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff, Thurs 26) JIM JONES & THE RIGHTEOUS MIND (Clwb Ifor Bach, Fri 27) THE NIGHT CAFE (Tramshed, Cardiff, Fri 27) FINLEY QUAYE (The Neon, Newport, Sat 28) JUST BUZZ 70

01994 427688. uFrankie Wesson Hen & Chickens, Abergavenny. 8pm, free. Info 01873 853613. Every Sunday this month.

Grooveline Earl Haig Memorial Club, Cardiff. 6-8pm, free. Info 029 2062 6015. UB40 tribute band. uSteve Tarner Jazz Hen & Chickens, Abergavenny. 2pm, free. Info 01873 853613. Every Sunday this month.

The Great Unknown The Windsor, Penarth. 9pm, free.

Info 029 2070 8675.

UltraSepulChral Margam Park, nr Port Talbot. 1-3.30pm, free. Info 01639 881635.

Described as “medieval songs, poems and chants with voices and instruments”, with three half-hour sets at 1, 2 and 3pm.

MONDAY 5 AUGUST Groucho Club Noah’s Yard, Swansea. 8pm. Info 01792 447360. Playing the jazz night which is here every Monday. uWindow Sessions 10 Feet Tall, Cardiff. 8pm, free Info 029 2022 8883. New acoustic night, hosted by Tomos Lewis and on every Monday.

TUESDAY 6 AUGUST Acoustic Tuesday South Riverside Community Development Centre, Cardiff.

7.30pm, £5. Info 029 2030 4400. Regular event led by pioneering local musicians and singers.

Cancer Bats + Incite Hobo’s, Bridgend. 7pm, £15 adv. Info www. hobosmusicvenue.com. Punky metal gumbys.

John Davies Quintet Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £4.50/£4 members/£2 NUS. Info 029 2038 7026.

Leftover Crack + Pizzatramp The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £15 adv. Info 07590 471888. Grotty ska-punk band from New York. Didn’t know they were still together.

Well I did cos I saw this gig announced months ago, but before then.

Le Vent Du Nord Lyric Theatre, Carmarthen. 7pm, £19.50. Info 0845 2263510.

Québecois folk band. uOpen Jam Session NosDa, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info 029 2037 8866. Presented by Pi & Hash, every Tuesday this month. uOpen Mic Night Porter’s, Cardiff. 8pm. Info info@ porterscardiff.com. Every Tuesday.

WEDNESDAY 7 AUGUST Bella Collins Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm. Info 029 2038 7026.

Donnie Joe’s American Swing Ex-Servicemen’s Club, Penarth. 7.30pm, £5/£4.40 adv.

Info feelgoodmusicorg@gmail. com. Also featuring swing DJ The Medicine Man. Faith I Branko Quartet Burnett’s Hill Chapel, Martletwy, Pembrokeshire.

7.30pm, £12. Info 01646 651725. UK/Serbian gypsy jazz group.

Forté Project Live Music Night Porter’s, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info info@porterscardiff. com. With acts TBC. Memory Camp The Moon, Cardiff. 7.30pm. Info info@ themooncardiff.com.

Noson Jazz Clwb Y Bont, Pontypridd. 7.30pm. Info 01443 491424. Monthly jazz club night.

Open Mic Night NosDa, Cardiff. 7.30pm, free. Info 029 2037 8866. With a different guest host every week this month; tonight’s is Joe Kelly.

The Richard West Experience with Alicia Hooper Rogerstone & Bassaleg Social Club, Bassaleg, Newport. 8pm, £10.

Info malc@dancebands. plus.com. A South Wales Big Band Society gig, on every Wednesday.

THURSDAY 8 AUGUST 8: A Film & Live Soundtrack National Museum Cardiff. 8pm, £5-£9.

Info 029 2039 7951. The film features Super 8 footage of eight Welsh locations suffering from environmental damage, and the live soundtrack will feature eight musicians – namely Gareth Bonello, Toby Cameron, Charlotte Church, Cian Ciarán, Kris Jenkins, Jonathan Powell, Secondson and Meilyr Tomos. This sounds pretty cool but it would really balls up the numerical theme if someone dropped out or they had to change the date.

Mangata The Pear Tree, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info 029 2025 2042.

Police Synchronicity + DS:UK + U2UK Chepstow Castle. 6.30pm, £20 adv. Info 01291 627122. The first of 12 gigs here this month under the banner of Castell Roc, featuring tributes to The Police, Dire Straits and U2.. *Pram + Alice Hubble The Moon, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £10/£9 adv. Info info@ themooncardiff.com. Pram are a Birmingham experimental/ indie band who formed in the early 90s and made a bunch of cool wonky synthy records, then broke up, then reformed as bands do. They don’t feature their original singer, and I don’t know if this is specifcally because she is now a Spiked magazine dickhead with absolutely awful opinions on everything, but she is that regardless.

Songwriters Network Ocean Arts Cardiff, Cardiff Bay. 8-11.30pm, £5/£3. Info oceanartscardiff@gmx.co.uk.

Meetup and jam type night, every second Thursday of the month.

Wonderbrass Porter’s, Cardiff. 8pm. Info info@ porterscardiff.com.

FRIDAY 9 AUGUST Acoustic Sinners City Arms, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2064 1913.

Bruce Anderson The Duke Of Wellington, Cowbridge.

9.30pm, free. Info 01446

773592.

Calling Apollo + Raiders Tiny Rebel, Cardiff. 7pm, £7/£5 adv. Info 029 2039 9557.

South Wales electro-rock sorts headline.

Far From Animals + Calling Sheriff Buzby + The Government + Windshake Sin City, Swansea. 7pm, £3 adv. Info 01792 468892. Hometown Shows gig.

James Kennedy Ty Newydd, Barry. 9pm, free. Info 01446 407767.

Jimmy Mac’s Blues Band Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £4/£3.

Info 029 2038 7026. Blues.

Liane Carroll St Mary’s Stage, Brecon. 6-7.15pm, £15.

Info info@breconjazz.org.

Brecon Jazz gig, also a fundraiser for Side By Side With Refugees.

Olivia Fern The Globe At Hay, Hay-On-Wye. 8pm, £5.

Info 01497 821762. Indie-folkie.

Samantha Wright Quintet The Muse, Brecon. 2.153.30pm, £12/£10. Info info@ breconjazz.org. Brecon Jazz gig.

Saykridd Daly The Moon, Cardiff. 7pm, free. Info info@ themooncardiff.com. Local hip-hop MC does an album launch gig.

Scarlet Rebels The Patriot, Crumlin. 7pm, £6 adv. Info 01495 247178. Album launch gig for a band previously known as V0iD. Siriol & Talfan Jankins Ty Helig, Brecon. 8-9pm, £10/£8 adv. Info info@breconjazz.org.

Brecon Jazz gig. uSolarsphere Penmaenau Farm, Llanelwedd, Builth Wells. £50 weekend/£25 13-16-year-olds/free under-13s and/or carers for registered disabled under-13s. Info office@solarsphere.events.

A music festival with a large side order of astronomy. Bands playing over three days: Def Neon, Zero Gravity, In Vitro (a Nirvana tribute band), Alien Stash Tin, The Biggest Thing Since Powdered Milk, Dirt (Alice In Chains tribute), Hoo-Hah Conspiracy, Civilian Zen, Tyrannosaurus Nuvulous, The Fireside Family, Joe Kelly & The Royal Pharmacy, Juliet Falls, Rogue Frequency, Alien Embassy, Rachael Erica Shaw and Tea For One. Speakers: Nigel Henbest, Tim Gregory, Pete Williamson, Dr Julian Onions, Andy Green, Steve Tonkin, Stuart Atkinson and Ronnie The Animatronic Dinosaur (he’s listed as a speaker here OK). Plus lots of workshops and other stuff.

(Until Sun 11) Steve Waterman’s Festival Big Band Castle Hotel Ballroom, Brecon. 8.1510.30pm, £38/£36 adv. Info info@breconjazz.org. Brecon Jazz gig. Price includes food, which I assume you need to order in advance, even though the pay on the door price is higher. Oh I don’t know.

The Pollen Count Cross Keys Hotel, Neath. 8.30pm, free. Info 01639 643927.

The Shires + Laura Evans

8: A FILM & LIVE SOUNDTRACK National Museum Cardiff, Thurs 8 Aug Tickets: £5-£9. Info: 029 203979 51 / museum.wales/cardiff An event with a running numerical motif as heavily telegraphed as its underlying message. On the eighth day of the eighth month, file into this museum’s Reardon Smith theatre for the screening of 8, a documentary shot on a Super 8 camera that features footage of eight locations across Wales, each of which have been affected by the nation’s industrial legacy. This, the film’s debut screening, will be supplemented by a live performance featuring eight Welsh artists: Toby Cameron from 8’s production company On-Par, plus musicians Charlotte Church [pictured], Super Furry Animals’ Cian Ciarán, Gareth Bonello, Leon ‘Secondson’ West, Kris Jenkins, Meilur Tomos and Jonathan Powell.

Chepstow Castle. 6.30pm, £32 adv. Info 01291 627122.

Castell Roc gig.

Ultraviolet The Lion, Chepstow. 8pm, free. Info 01291 630886.

Wager + THiS + Tom Jenkins + Shovelface Jac’s, Aberdare. 7pm, £3. Info 01685 879491. EP launch gig for the headliners. They sent me the EP in fact. Melodic punk kinda stuff.

World Vs World + Southbound The Dragonffli, Pontypool. 7pm, £2. Info gigs@thedragonffli.com.

X Twenty Two + Igam Ogam + Faster On Fire + Tight Muff The Duke, Neath.

7pm, free. Info 0300 3656677.

SATURDAY 10 AUGUST Alice Leggett Quartet Guildhall Theatre, Brecon.

1.30-2.45pm, £14/£12. Info info@breconjazz.org. Brecon Jazz gig.

All Dead, All Dead + Luke Rance Cinema & Co, Swansea. 8.30pm, £6.50 adv.

Info 07982 624959. Music, art and film night also featuring exhibitions from Billy Stillman, Edoardo Sarli, Lauren May Pitson and Simon Goss.

Barbara Dennerlein Trio Guildhall Theatre, Brecon.

5-6.15pm, £28/£26. Info info@ breconjazz.org. Brecon Jazz gig.

BattleFest Dare Valley Country Park, Aberdare. 7pm,

£5 adv/£10 VIP. Info 01685 874672. Welsh rap battle tournament set to feature Morgan Jones v Brave Mugraw, Jake The Ripper v Rubix, Carwyn Jones v Jamie Edward Hiscox, Peter Phoenix Mumford v Todd Jones and Cameron Kilday v Patrick Darren Brogan plus more TBC, with special guests including Noah Bouchard and Live Wire.

Breathe Fire Rhondda Hotel, Porth. 7pm, £5 adv. Info 01443 682388. Rock covers.

Cancel The Transmission The Patriot, Crumlin. 8pm, free. Info 01495 247178.

CJ Birchgrove, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2031 1319.

Cross The Line + Best Of Enemies Cardiff Bus Transport Club. 7.45pm, £5 adv. Info 029 2023 3658.

Darren Eedens & The Slim Pickins + Oxbowlake + Esio + Twammers NosDa, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info 029 2037 8866.

Finding Aurora Le Public Space, Newport. 7.30pm, £4/£3 adv. Info sam@lepub.co.uk.

Single launch gig Gareth Roberts The Muse, Brecon. 3.15-4.30pm, £16/£14.

Info info@breconjazz.org.

Brecon Jazz gig.

Glas Three Horse Shoes, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2069 4630.

Helldown + State Of Deceit + Sydney Fate + Neckbrace Sin City, Swansea. 7pm, free. Info 01792

468892. Hometown Shows gig.

Ian Shimmin Band The Mariners, Laugharne. 8.30pm, free. Info 01994 427688.

Jack Mac’s Funk Pack Porter’s, Cardiff. 8pm. Info info@porterscardiff.com.

One Vision Congress Theatre, Cwmbran. 7pm, £16/£15. Info 01633 868239.

Queen tribute, more specifically a tribute to the We Will Rock You musical. If I was another Queen tribute band I would mock One Vision for not being real Queen fans.

Pardon Us + Good Grief + Bedford Falls + Enouement The Moon, Cardiff. 7pm, free. Info info@ themooncardiff.com. Poppy punk and emo, presented by DIT Cardiff Punchline Hen Dderwen, Swansea. 9pm, free. Info 01792 203631.

Pysz, Cousins & Gardiner Wellington Hotel, Brecon.

12-1.10pm, £16/£14. Info info@breconjazz.org. Brecon Jazz gig.

Royal Blood + The Mysterines Newport Centre.

7pm, £33 adv. Info 01633 656757. Second of five UK dates this month, each at slightly smaller venues than is now the norm for headlining UK rock duo. Accordingly, sold out.

Scarsun + Rapture’s End The Dragonffli, Pontypool.

7pm, £2. Info gigs@ thedragonffli.com. Presented

ANNOUNCED FOR OCTOBER: CHASE & STATUS (Titan Warehouse, Sat 5) THE HOUSE & GARAGE ORCHESTRA (Tramshed, Thurs 10) HEADIE ONE (Cardiff University Students Union, Sun 13) THE CULT (Cardiff University, Fri 18) THE SHERLOCKS (Tramshed, Mon 21) VAN MORRISON (St David’s Hall, Cardiff, Wed BUZZ 71

* – recommended by the zanily named Neon Goat Promotions.

S Club 3 Chepstow Castle.

6.30pm, £22 adv. Info 01291 627122. Castell Roc gig, also featuring a DJ set from Spandau Ballet’s Martin Kemp.

In fact I think he is the de facto headliner.

Scott Hamilton Quartet Guildhall Theatre, Brecon.

8-9.15pm, £12/£10. Info info@ breconjazz.org. Brecon Jazz gig. uSwansisphere 2019 The Bunkhouse, Swansea.

1-11pm, £15 adv/£10 per day.

Info info@bunkhousebar. co.uk. The actual Sonisphere might be gone but here is a two-day tribute band festival which cheekily references its name. Today features two actual tribute bands, L1nkn_p4rk and Down With The System UK, plus tributes to Slipknot (by Sentry), Enter Shikari (by Inscape), Rage Against The Machine (by Throwing Knives), Foo Fighters (by Foxbite) and Papa Roach (by Death By Disco). Tomorrow: tributes to Nirvana (by Welterweight),

New Found Glory (by These Five Years), Alien Ant Farm (by I Am Gravity), Lil Peep (by Scottcantswim), Queens Of The Stone Age (by Heavy On The Ride), The Beatles (by The Dirty Flamingos) and Bowie (by Zed Motel). There’s also an acoustic stager in the bar with tributes to Frank Turner (by Kayleigh Morgan), Deaf Havana (by Callum James), Dashboard Confessional (by Kyle David Smith), Reuben(by Heartwork), Fightstar (by Christian Sayers) and Gorillaz (by Ben Luc).

The Bon Jovi Experience The Globe, Cardiff. 7pm, £14 adv. Info 07590 471888. Tribute band.

The Marc Davies Band Earl Haig Memorial Club, Cardiff. 9pm. Info 029 2062 6015.

The Moody Groover Cambrian Inn, Abergavenny.

9pm, free. Info 07791 526984.

The Flying Spider Revival Jac’s, Aberdare. 7pm, £3/£2 extra to ride the bull. Info 01685 879491. “Why does it say that thing about the bull?” I hear you plead. Well,

it’s because this is a Coyote Ugly-themed evening featuring the band, the bull and dancing barmaids.

The Sisterhood The Pod, Newport. 9.30pm. Info 01633 535440.

The Strip Lights The Buck Sports Bar & Grill, Barry 7pm, free. Info 01446 736333.

This Is The Kit + Rozi Plain Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff.

7.30pm, £16. Info 029 2023 2199. Brace of mannered indie-folk types.

Torchbearer + Dead At 27 + Lead By Lies Fuel Rock Club, Cardiff. 7pm, £3. Info 07970 063107.

SUNDAY 11 AUGUST Big Girls Don’t Cry Chepstow Castle. 6.30pm, £25 adv. Info 01291 627122. Castell Roc gig featuring Frankie Valli tribute band.

Celtic Jazz Quartet Wellington Hotel, Brecon. 8.159.30pm, £12/£10. Info info@ breconjazz.org. Brecon Jazz gig, the final one of the weekend in fact. uFolk Music & Song

Session Arvon Ale House, Llandrindod Wells. 4pm. Info 07477 627267. Every second and fourth Sunday of the month (also on Sun 28 in July), with an extra acoustic session on the third Sunday (Sun 18) too.

Frazer Nelson Trio Ty Helyg Lounge, Brecon. 12pm, £10/£8. Info info@breconjazz. org. Brecon Jazz gig. Don’t worry, it’s unlikely that this Cardiff-based pianist will be platforming any fascists during his set – you’re thinking of Fraser Nelson, editor of the Spectator.

Gethin Liddington’s Goodkatz Wellington Hotel, Brecon. 12.15-1.30pm, £12/£10 adv. Info info@breconjazz.org.

Brecon Jazz gig.

Karen Sharp Quartet Guildhall Theatre, Brecon.

2-3.15pm, £18/£16 adv. Info info@breconjazz.org. Brecon Jazz gig.

Markham Colliery Band Bedwellty Park Bandstand, Tredegar. 3-5pm. Info 01495 355945.

Michale Graves The Globe, Cardiff. 7pm, £15 adv. Info

u – repeated

07590 471888. Former frontman of the Misfits in the late 90s, which yielded two pedestrian albums, Graves maintained notoriety of sorts after this for being a punk rock guy who endorsed George Bush. “However, he became a libertarian in 2013,” Wikipedia reassures us.

Ocaso Latin Quartet Castle Hotel, Brecon. 12-1.15pm, £12/£10 adv. Info info@ breconjazz.org. Brecon Jazz gig.

Open Mic with Dave Kenwrick The Andrew Buchan, Cardiff. 8pm, free.

Info 029 2021 2509.

Rory Ingham Quintet St Mary’s Church, Brecon.

6.30-7.45pm, £14/£12 adv. Info info@breconjazz.org. Brecon Jazz gig.

Ross Stanley Trio The Muse, Brecon. 12.15-1.30pm, £12/£10 adv. Info info@ breconjazz.org. Brecon Jazz gig.

Stochelo Rosenberg Quintette Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon.

4-5.30pm, £26 adv. Info info@ breconjazz.org. Brecon Jazz

gig.

The Bay Rum Hounds + Laura Benjamin Browns, Laugharne. 3pm, free. Info 01994 427688.

The Red Hot Pokers Earl Haig Memorial Club, Cardiff.

6-8pm, free. Info 029 2062 6015.

Tribeless + Paisley Park + The Catacombs Jac’s, Aberdare. 5.30-8pm, £3/free kids. Info 01685 879491.

MONDAY 12 AUGUST *Amythyst Kiah + Darren Eedens The Moon, Cardiff.

7.30pm, £12/£10 adv. Info info@themooncardiff.com.

See Music for more on this gig. Headliner is one of the Our Native Daughters trio and should be really good. Eedens will be performing as part of a duo here.

Gethin Liddington Quartet Noah’s Yard, Swansea. 8pm.

Info 01792 447360.

Invalids + Floral + Sketchshow + Fort Fuel Rock Club, Cardiff. 7pm, £7 adv. Info 07970 063107.

live review

NILE RODGERS & CHIC Cardiff Castle, Fri 12 July

“I have the best day job in the world!” chirps Nile Rodgers, during a typically brief pause between songs and in the manner of someone who considers telling people he has the best day job in the world to be part of his day job. It is true that playing some extremely famous songs to five-figure audiences, who have paid what would in some cases be a day’s wages for the privilege, beats the uranium mines hands down. Yet many, given a similar platform to the Chic founding member and disco doyen, come off like they’re phoning it in; it’s a credit to Rodgers that he avoids this pitfall.

The 90-minute-no-more-no-less show takes in several of the better known Chic songs – Dance, Dance, Dance (Yowsah, Yowsah, Yowsah) opens proceedings – as well as many written by Chic in production-team mode. The duo of Rodgers and bassist Bernard Edwards, who died in 1996, struck big early on with the likes of Sister Sledge’s We Are Family and Diana Ross’ I’m Coming Out, both of which get aired here with minimal trumpet blowing (metaphorically speaking; there is a trumpet player onstage).

Rodgers and band are ruthlessly efficient, fusing songs together quasi-megamix style: Material Girl and Like A Virgin, two Chic-produced Madonna songs, are treated thus. Kimberley Davis, Chic vocalist of a decade standing, is in solid imitation-Madge voice for these – it’s actually only Chic smash Le Freak where she’s noticeably not quite up to the original. Not that the crowd appear fussed about this sort of sonic pedantry, or that most of the big screen graphics look like vintage Windows screensavers, or that Get Lucky – the Daft Punk song which precipitated Rodgers’ return to the elite – is sung in a melismatic ‘soul’ version for two minutes before they quit the pretence and play it properly.

The final lap of a set that feels blessedly shorter than it actually is finds several dozen audience members – I assume VIP ticket holders – bounding onstage for Good Times: the ultimate scene-that-celebrates-itself anthem, one appropriated by the Sugarhill Gang for Rappers’ Delight. At the time, Chic sued the hip-hop progenitors for borrowing Edwards’ bassline without asking. A hair under 40 years later, Rodgers segues into it, does the rap himself, circles back to Good Times and bids us goodnight. A neat reframing of late-20th-century musical history from someone who exerted considerable influence over it. words NOEL GARDNER photos MORGAN DEVINE

23) GRACE PETRIE (The Moon, Cardiff, Sat 26) NSG (Tramshed, Sun 27) ROBYN HITCHCOCK (Clwb Ifor Bach, Wed 30) JUST ANNOUNCED FOR NOVEMBER: LISA STANSFIELD (St David’s Hall, Fri 1) MARINA (Motorpoint Arena Cardiff, Fri 1) MIKE PETERS (Memorial Hall, Newbridge, Fri 1) FIVE + S CLUB + ATOMIC BUZZ 72

TUESDAY 13 AUGUST Apathy Avenue The Duke, Neath. 7pm, free. Info 0300 3656677.

Hailbails + Deadbeat Deluxe Le Public Space, Newport. 8pm, £6 adv. Info sam@lepub.co.uk. Headliners are from Leeds and do retro rockabilly type stuff but include some unlikely late 90s indie landfill personnel in the form of Bruce Renshaw, ex of Ultrasound and The Lodger.

Moonshine Boulevard Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £4.50/£4 members/£2 NUS. Info 029 2038 7026.

Skegss + Gaffa Tape Sandy + Ratbags Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £10.

Info 029 2023 2199. Australian garage-rock band headline.

They don’t seem too eager to buck the beach bum bro stereotype.

WEDNESDAY 14 AUGUST Black3lvis + Lazy Machine The Moon, Cardiff.

7.30pm. Info info@ themooncardiff.com. Local funk-rock kinda band headline a fundraiser gig for this venue.

Cultdreams Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7pm, £7. Info 029 2023 2199. Beers Over Tears present “sad art punks” from Brighton who were until recently called Kamikaze Girls until it was suggested to them that someone could, theoretically and if they were determined, find that name problematic.

Whereupon the band sprang into action and changed it to something equally crap but definitely inoffensive.

Hawthorn Avenue Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7pm, £8. Info 029 2023 2199.

Mark Porter & His All Stars Rogerstone & Bassaleg Social Club, Bassaleg, Newport. 8pm, £10. Info malc@dancebands.plus. com. A South Wales Big Band Society gig.

Mike O’Connor & Barbara Griggs Pontyclun Institute Athletic Club. 7.30pm, £8/£5 members. Info 01443 226892. A Llantrisant Folk Club night.

Noson Werin Clwb Y Bont, Pontypridd. 7.30pm. Info 01443 491424. Monthly folk night.

Open Mic Night NosDa, Cardiff. 7.30pm, free. Info 029 2037 8866. Tonight’s host is Aiden Keryn. uThe Bay Rum Hounds Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm. Info 029 2038 7026. Also on Wed 28.

The Caspiens + These Five Years + Apathy Avenue + Exit To Main Menu + Penny Rich Fuel Rock Club, Cardiff. 7pm, £5 adv. Info 07970 063107.

Presented by South Wales Showcase.

THURSDAY 15 AUGUST A Tribute To Ariana & Jojo Memorial Hall Theatre, Barry. 5.15pm, £15. Info 01446 738622. That’s Ariana Grande and Jojo Siwa. Think this is aimed at the kids, I know some of you ‘poptimists’ out there like Ariana but if you go to this

child-free you might look a bit weird tbh.

Germein + Natalie Jones + Frankie Wesson + Christian Sayers The Bunkhouse, Swansea. 7pm, £8/£6 adv. Info info@ bunkhousebar.co.uk. uGreen Man 2018 Glanusk Park Estate, Brecon Beacons. £189 weekend/£163 NUS/£121 13-17-year-olds/£21 5-12-yearolds/under-5s free with a ticket. Info info@ thegreenmanfestival.co.uk.

Annual festival, once again fully sold out. Here’s the lineup though cos you can always try Twickets and places like that. Today: Amadou & Mariam, these New Puritans, Bodega, Audiobooks and Novel (Far Out stage); Pictish Trail, Brigid Mae Power, Alex Rex, Bess Atwell and Callum Easter (Walled Garden). Fri 16: Yo La Tengo, Villagers, Broken Social Scene, Whitney, Julia Jacklin, Durand Jones & The Indications, Squirrel Flower and Jerry (main stage); Maribou State, Khruangbin, Steve Mason, Gwenno, Marika Hackman, Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs, The Beths, TVAM and Pet Shimmers, plus Greg Wilson in the After Dark Slot (Far Out); Ex-Re, Bill Ryder-Jones, Stealing Sheep, Squid, Bridget St John, Anna St Louis, Tamino, Penelope Isles and Malena Zavala (Walled Garden); Just Musard, Arlo Day, Dry Cleaning, Molly Paxton, Rosehip Teahouse, Meggie Brown and Mama’s Broke (Rising stage). Sat 17: Four Tet, Stereolab, Big Thief, Lee Fields & The Expressions, Sons Of Kemet, Stella Donnelly and Mapache (main stage); Car Seat Headrest, Richard Thompson, Kokoko, A Certain Ratio, The Big Moon, Hen Ogledd, Jockstrap and Modern Nature, plus Shy FX & Stamina and The Comet Is Coming in the After Dark slot (Far Out); Lamb, Jescap Hoop, Aidan Moffatt & RM Hubbert, Avi Buffalo, Tiny Ruins, Willie J Healy, Beebadoobee, Art School Girlfriend and George Ogilvie (Walled Garden); Scalping, Black Country New Road, Porridge Radio, Oscar Lang, Peaness, Eitha Da and Spiritcase (Rising). Sun 18: Father John Misty, Sharon Van Etten, Eels, Aldous Harding, Anais Mitchell, Foxwarren and Self Esteem (main stage); Idles, The Growlers, Ezra Collective, White Fence, the Liminanas, Yak, Say Sue Me and James Heather (Far Out); Nilufer Yanya, Skinny Pelembe, James Yorkston, Hand Habits, Pottery, Chelou, Johanna Samuels, Grimm Grimm and Gweinfer Raymond (Walled Garden); Pozi, Chloe Foy, Chappaqua Wrestling, Intergalactic Republic Of Kongo, PVA and Wych Elm (Rising). Plus Chai Wallahs and various comedy, film, science and talk-y type tents/ stages. (Until Sun 18) uGwyl Pontardawe Festival Various venues, Pontardawe. 7.30pm, £11. Info facebook.com/ gwylpontardawefestival.

Described as “a unique festival that takes place around the

town, with free street entertainment, a street Parade, a street food and craft market, and over 70 live bands in 10 different venues over four days.” Apart from a band called The Filthy Spectacula, who are apparently steampunk, playing on Sat 17, all other details are currently TBC. (Until Sun 18) Idge Logan The Pear Tree, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info 029 2025 2042.

Los Pacaminos Chepstow Castle. 6.30pm, £20 adv. Info 01291 627122. Castell Roc gig.

Pi & Hash Showcase The Moon, Cardiff. 7pm, free. Info info@themooncardiff.com.

The Soapgirls Hobo’s, Bridgend. 7pm, £10/£8 adv.

Info www.hobosmusicvenue. com. South African grunge duo, often unencumbered by clothes while performing.

They were due to play Fuel in Cardiff last year, but it was apparently cancelled as the venue got a tipoff suggesting the band might be racist.

Can’t be too careful these days can you.

FRIDAY 16 AUGUST A Taste Of Nashville The Hyst, Swansea. 7pm, £8 adv.

Info 01792 654366. Country

*Hen Ogledd + Y Prygethwr Cinema & Co, Swansea. 7.30pm, £10/£8. Info 07982 624959. Nawr present another south Wales outing for weird-pop quartet featuring Richard Dawson and Nawr’s own Rhodri Davies; they’re also playing Green Man this weekend.

Lost Tuesday Society Abertawe Road Studios, Swansea. 7pm, £5 adv. Info editor@soundboardmagazine. co.uk. Local folk-rock band play a show that’s being filmed and recorded for something or other.

Metallica Reloaded The New Crown Inn, Merthyr Tydfil. 8pm, £10/£8 adv. Info 01685 387925. Tribute band.

Oas-Is Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7pm, £13.50. Info 029 2023 2199. Oasis tribute band tour to mark 25 years since Definitely Maybe was released. Next year they can do the same for ...Morning Glory, then the Knebworth gigs, then Be Here Now if they’re feeling as overly confident as Oasis themselves.

Pearler + Cadacus The Bunkhouse, Swansea. 7pm, £5/£4 adv. Info info@ bunkhousebar.co.uk.

Rumney Folk Club St Augustine’s Church, Rumney,

Kanda Bongo Man, Congolese Afro-pop sensation of the late-80s boom in such things, is still going strong today. In 2017, he played a gig at the Bluestone Brewing Company in Pembrokeshire and went down so well, they’ve invited him back on Sun 25 Aug. and western tribute from a duo of Dusty Road, who despite their name is a person (unlike Dusty Bin) and Chris Harris.

Bottlekids + Red Rooster + Raised By Sharks McCanns Rock N Ale Bar, Newport. 8pm, free. Info 01633 253648.

Bruce Anderson City Arms, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2064 1913.

Chloe & Friends The Pod, Newport. 9.45pm. Info 01633 535440.

Dansette Café Jazz, Cardiff.

8pm, £4/£3. Info 029 2038 7026. Classic soul.

Diamond Dogz Queens Hall, Narberth. 7pm, £20/£16 adv. Info 01834 869323. Bowie tribute band fronted by Phil Murray, who briefly had a band with Woody Woodmansey just after the latter had been one of the Spiders From Mars.

Doc And The Headshrinkers The Lion, Chepstow. 8pm, free. Info 01291 630886.

Hashtag Acoustic Vivian Arms, Swansea. 9pm, free. Info 01792 516194.

Cardiff. 7.45pm. Info derek@ rumneyfolkclub.co.uk. Monthly session with regular and guest performers.

Simon Trigg The Duke Of Wellington, Cowbridge. 9.30pm, free. Info 01446 773592.

Taxi Rank + Windshake Sin City, Swansea. 7pm, £5/£3 adv. Info 01792 468892.

Hometown Shows gig for garage rock duo.

That Which Ate The Moon + Igam Ogam Le Public Space, Newport. 7pm. Info sam@lepub.co.uk.

The Black Hounds + Fallen Temples Fuel Rock Club, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £5. Info 07970 063107. Headliners are a Wolverhampton hard rock band The Marley Experience Jac’s, Aberdare. 7pm, £13/£10 adv. Info 01685 879491. Bob Marley tribute band.

The Rude Awakening + Circuit Symphony + Sombre Moon The Big Top, Cardiff. 7pm, £10 adv. Info 029 2022 8883. Various synthpop bands. Circuit Symphony are

from Bridgend but hardly ever play live.

Tirade + Bear Island The Moon, Cardiff. 7pm, free. Info info@themooncardiff.com.

Trep + And The Sky Darkened + Birth The Dolls House, Abertillery.

6-11.30pm. Info 01495 213300. uTruefest Baskerville Hall, nr Hay-On-Wye. 12pm, £95 (three days). Info 07561 394582 / www.truefest. co.uk. Live music and DJs of a hip-hop, funk, dub, danceable nature: DJ Yoda, The Allergies, Henge, Afro Cluster, Cut Capers, Onipa, Captain Accident & The Disasters, Unchained XL, Darkhouse Family, Ichi, Binbag Wisdom, Junior Bill, Slipped Disco, Buzzard Buzzard Buzzard, Milk, CVC, Monty Carlo, Veto, Konketsu, Lecu, Mansfield Green, Malavita, Al & The Salty Seadogs, Godbomber, Karyo, Gemini, Saccharyn, Soma Soma and Ophelia Xerri. Rumble In The Jungle takeover: Benny Page ft Sye MC, Kelvin 373, Subcriminal, Bish, HollieMay b2b Frenetic, Kamoh and Monroller. Blue Honey takeover: Andy Warphole, Alfie Swan, James Morgan-Rees and Whiteman. Madame Electrifie Presents: Evil Twin (Mini Da Minx & Madame Elctrifie) ft Kathika. Betti, Suspect and Heedless. Hold Tight Showcase: Halcyonic & G Roots, Muttley, Dutchie, Ickle b2b Drift, Supplya, Stil Bizy MC and Indra MC. Green King Cuts Yard: Mystic State & Transparent, Ethos Ft. D-Los, Kreed Ft Tailored Sound, Reggiments, Sasha Steppa, Gkc & Feline, Roots Agenda b2b Supplya, Drift Continental, 2 Honeys, Ul Tra and Jimanoli.

Moth Club: Versa, Rowl, Akira Neroli and Atherael. (Until Sun 18) Wicked Splinters + Brent Lee The Globe At Hay, HayOn-Wye. 8pm, £5. Info 01497 821762.

Wild Willy Barrett’s Roaring Touring Band Ffwrn, Fishguard. 8pm, £10. Info 01348 875412.

Precursor to the Aberjazz weekend, which runs from Thurs 22-Mon 26 in various Fishguard venues.

SATURDAY 17 AUGUST Acoustic Sinners The Twelve Knights, Port Talbot.

9pm, free. Info 01639 882381.

Beeyonce The Neon, Newport. 7pm. Info 01633 533666. Tribute act. Doesn’t specifically say that it will feature Beyoncé’s songs performed by someone wearing a beard of bees, but I can’t see what else it would ‘bee’ (be) really.

Bois Goetre-Hen Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 7pm, £8-£12. Info 01656 815995.

Gala summer concert from male voice choir.

Cadence Birchgrove, Cardiff.

9pm, free. Info 029 2031 1319. uCadstock Victoria Park, Cadoxton, Barry. 12-6pm, free.

Info 01446 704737. Live bands

on the bandstand, on tomorrow also.

Casio Club Porter’s, Cardiff.

8pm. Info info@porterscardiff. com.

Deadbeat Deluxe + Revolution Rabbit Deluxe The Dragonffli, Pontypool.

7pm, £5. Info gigs@ thedragonffli.com.

Dead Objectives + Social Experiment + Healer Of Bastards + Woodsman The Dolls House, Abertillery.

7pm, £5. Info 01495 213300.

Deadwood The Patriot, Crumlin. 8pm, £5. Info 01495 247178. Lots of bands whose names start with ‘Dead’ in the valleys tonight. Eerie.

Dominic Halpern & The Hurricanes Chepstow Castle.

6.30pm, £22 adv. Info 01291 627122. Castell Roc gig that seems to be one of those cover band-meets-theatre show type things.

FiddleBop The Globe At Hay, Hay-On-Wye. 8pm, free.

Info 01497 821762. Jazz and gypsy jazz. Donations to Hay Cat Rescue will be taken on the night.

Hand In Hand Cardiff 2019 St David’s Hall, Cardiff.

12pm, £15 full day/£10 daytime only. Info 029 2087 8444.

Biennial festival celebrating the LGBT+ choirs of UK and Ireland, indeed featuring performances from over 30 of them. Daytime performances are from 12-6pm while the gala evening event starts at 8pm.

Hi-On Maiden Jac’s, Aberdare. 7pm, £10 adv. Info 01685 879491. Tribute band.

Lighthammer The Andrew Buchan, Cardiff. 8pm, free.

Info 029 2021 2509.

Manifestation + Ballkick + Sore Teeth + El Sid + Made Of Teeth + Positive Reaction + Layman’s Terms + Exit To Main Menu The Moon, Cardiff.

3pm, free. Info info@themooncardiff.com. Slightly-morethan-half-dayer of hardcore and metal bands presented

by DFTS. Only Fools & Corpses + Football FC + Shishu Le Public Space, Newport.

7.30pm, £4. Info sam@lepub. co.uk.

Ponty’s Big Weekend Ynysangharad Park, Pontypridd. 3-11pm, £45 adv. Info orchardlive.com.

Featuring Ocean Colour Scene, The Bluetones, Goldie Lookin Chain doing their ‘Legends’ set, Buzzard Buzzard Buzzard, The Pitchforks, Al Moses and Young Garbo.

Robert Lane Cwtch Coffee, Pembroke Dock. 7.30pm. Info 01646 687635. Folk.

Secret Rule Hangar 18, Swansea. 7pm, £4 adv. Info enquiries@ hangar18musicvenue.co.uk.

Symphonic metal band from Italy.

Showaddywaddy Chepstow Castle. 6.30pm, £23 adv. Info 01291 627122. Castell Roc gig.

The Tearaways Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7pm, £15. Info 029 2023 2199. Middle-aged American rock quintet mainly notable for having recentish

KITTEN (Motorpoint Arena, Sat 2) STEVE MASON (Clwb Ifor Bach, Sun 3) JOJO SIWA (Motorpoint Arena, Mon 4) FEEDER (Cardiff University, Thurs 7) A CERTAIN RATIO (Clwb Ifor Bach, Fri 8) STEVE HACKETT (St David’s Hall, Sat 9) DRAGONFORCE (Tramshed, Tue 12) KATE TEMPEST (Tramshed, Wed 13) REEL BIG BUZZ 73

* – recommended Buzz cover star, Blondie’s Clem Burke, on drums. When I say cover star, I mean we interviewed him but used a picture of Debbie Harry.

The GTs Riverside Sports Bar & Kitchen, Newport. 8.30pm.

Info 01633 439166.

Transmission – The Sound Of Joy Division The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £11 adv. Info 07590 471888. Tribute band.

SUNDAY 18 AUGUST Abba Mania Chepstow Castle. 6.30pm, £20 adv. Info 01291 627122. Castell Roc gig.

Acoustic Session Arvon Ale House, Llandrindod Wells.

4pm. Info 07477 627267.

Ben Smith Browns, Laugharne. 3pm, free. Info 01994 427688.

Chapter Four Jazz Quartet Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2030 4400. Jazz in the bar.

Jack Mac Quintet Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £5. Info 029 2038 7026.

Open Mic Night #1 Jac’s, Aberdare. 4-8pm, free. Info 01685 879491.

Prognosis Earl Haig Memorial Club, Cardiff. 6-9pm, free. Info 029 2062 6015.

Vintage prog rock tribute band.

Tyhai Small World Theatre, Cardigan. 8pm, £10 adv. Info 01239 615952. Indo-Celtic folk trio.

Valley Folk Club Folk Service Gellionnen Chapel, Pontardawe. Info 01792 425231. A Pontardawe Town Festival event.

MONDAY 19 AUGUST Dom Norcross Noah’s Yard, Swansea. 8pm. Info 01792 447360.

Easy Street Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8.30pm. Info 029 2038 7026.

Welsh Music Day Caerphilly Castle. 12-4pm, £5.30-£8.90/ free members, disabled people and their companions. Info 0300 0256000. Featuring a brass band, a choir and a harpist.

TUESDAY 20 AUGUST Phil Wall’s Jazz Band Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £4.50/£4 members/£2 NUS. Info 029 2038 7026.

WEDNESDAY 21 AUGUST Chico Chica Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm. Info 029 2038 7026. Tango, chanson, rumba, jazz and cabaret.

Gethin Liddington’s Goodkatz Rogerstone & Bassaleg Social Club, Bassaleg, Newport. 8pm, £10.

Info malc@dancebands.plus. com. A South Wales Big Band Society gig.

Open Mic Night NosDa, Cardiff. 7.30pm, free. Info 029 2037 8866. Tonight’s host is Ben Dain-Smith.

THURSDAY 22 AUGUST 360 Degrees The Pear Tree, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info 029 2025 2042. uAberjazz Various venues,

Fishguard. 1pm, prices vary.

Info 07973 399429. Annual multi-venue jazz and blues festival in this coastal town. Go to www.aberjazz.com for a comprehensive rundown. Today features the Rumblestrutters and Washboard Resonators (1pm and 2.30pm, Ffwrn, £10), Community Brass Band (5pm, Royal Oak, free) and The Swing Boyz and Jiveoholics (Letterson Memoral Hall, 8pm and 10pm, £10). Fri 23: Auld Man’s Baccie, Jodie Marie and Matthew Frederick (1pm, 2.45pm and 3.30pm, Ffwrn, £10), Blues Collusion (5pm, Yacht Club, £7.50), The Kevin Lawlor Quintet (5pm, Peppers, £10), Embraceable Ella (7pm, Theatr Gwaun, £10), Great West Groove (8.30pm, Barfive, free), The Achievers and Howlin’ Ric & The Rocketeers (8pm and 10pm, Ffwrn, £10) and Duski (9.30pm, Peppers, £10). Sat 24: The Dan Messore Trio and Chico Chica (1pm and 2.30pm, Ffwrn, £10), Sarah Meek & Gareth Evans (2pm, JT@3 / 8pm, the Ship, both free), Tony Harper Quartet (3pm, Royal Oak, free), Hang 11 (5pm, Coach House, free); Omega Two (5pm, Yacht Club, £7.50), Eira (5pm, Peppers, £10), Amera & Rollly (6.30pm, Barfive, free), Ibou Tall & The Jazz Mates (7pm, Theatr Gwaun, £12.50), Great West Groove (8pm, Rugby Club, free), Cosimo Matassa Project and Lucas D & The Groove Ghetto (8pm and 10pm, Ffwrn, £12.50), Crawlback (9pm, Royal Oak, free) and Nuadha Quartet (9pm, Peppers. £10). Sun 25: Mark Harrison and Peanut Shuffle Club (1pm and 2.30pm, Ffwrn, £10), Bay Rum Hounds (1pm, Yacht Club, £7.50), Lowri Evans & Lee Mason (2pm, TS Skirmisher, £7.50), St City Jazz Band (2pm, Market Hall, free), Howlin. Mat (3pm, Mannings, free), Jazz Parade (4pm, The Slade, free), Hideaway Trio (6pm, Coach House, free), Alison Rayner Quintet (7pm, Theatr Gwaun, £15). Pistol Pete Wearn (7pm, The Ship, free), Paul Garner Band and Leburn Maddox (8pm and 10pm, Ffwrn, £15), Mean Mistreaters (8.30pm, Rugby Club, free) and The Transatlantic Hotclub (9pm, Peppers, £10). Mon 26: Sister Bodhi and Afternoon In Paris (1pm and 2.30pm, Ffwrn, £10), Victoria Klein Quartet (6pm, Peppers, £10) and Chalk Outlines and Tom Seals Band (8pm and 10pm, Ffwrn, £10).

(Until Mon 26) British Sea Power Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £15. Info 029 2023 2199.

So-very-British indie perennials. Played Cardiff twice last year and sold the venues out both times. *J McFarlane’s Reality Guest + The Nicoteens + Tom House The Moon, Cardiff. 8pm, £6. Info info@ themooncardiff.com. Hotel De Marl present a gig headlined by neato Australian indie/ postpunk combo.

The Dualers + The Navarones Chepstow Castle.

6.30pm, £20 adv. Info 01291 627122. Headliners are an Anglo-Jamaican band who, I happened to notice this morning (as I write), are booked to play the Motorpoint Arena in November... of next year.

Another watershed moment for me in the ‘band I have never heard of play huge venue’ saga. Anyway I guess if they pull that off this will be thought of as a relatively small gig for them so hey ho.

FRIDAY 23 AUGUST Aiden Hatfield Crowleys Rock Bar, Swansea. 7pm, free. Info crowleysrockbar@ hotmail.com.

Ash + Paws + Nova Club Tramshed, Cardiff. 7pm, £21 adv. Info 029 2023 5555.

Downpatrick rockers implore you to put the downpayment on a ticket for a gig which which was upgraded from The Globe “due to phenomenal demand!”

Bandicoot + Young Garbo + Glass Violet Le Public Space, Newport. 7pm, £4. Info sam@lepub.co.uk. Presented

by City Sessions. uBank Holiday Bunkfest 2019 The Bunkhouse,

bonanza which you can read a little more about in Music.

Tonight is free entry in the Moon and features False Advertising, Threatmantics, The Vega Bodegas, Blue Amber, Secret Base and Nightmares From The Discotheque. Sat 24: Mugstar, The Death Of Money, Guide Dog, Worldcub, Aaronson, Fioled, Hyll, The Dharma Violets, Radio Laika, Boxcat and Comfort State (Moon); My Name Is Ian, Carolines, Rainbow Maniac, North By North, The Now and Jack Perrett (Clwb Ifor Bach upstairs); Darren Eedens & The Slim Pickin’s, Gwenifer Raymond, Cara Cullen, Ynys, Scott Howells, Parish and Owain Felstead (Clwb Ifor Bach downstairs); Charmpit, Woahnows, Witching Waves, Oh Peas!, Cat Apostrophe, Irn Brunette, Jeff, Inanna Meets The Dawn, Natty Paynter and Harvey Jones (Tiny Rebel); Isembard’s Wheel, Beano Naboo & The Real Keepers, Siobhan McCrudden, Arkocean, Spencer Segelov, Dusty Cut and The Mermerings (Bootlegger); Phoxjaw, Ritual King, White Parker, Clusterfuck, Tenplusone, Amber Lights, Karmen Field, Lighthammer,

The Printhaus, an admirable community space in Canton, Cardiff, is to be demolished shortly to build something really cool and interesting.

Just kidding! It’ll be more flats. Anyway, they’re having a closing/fundraiser party on Sat 31 Aug with live music, DJ sets and other goodies.

Swansea. 6-11pm, £7.50 both days/£5 per day. Info info@ bunkhousebar.co.uk. Lineup TBC for both days right now.

On from 1-11pm tomorrow however Cancel The Transmission Hangar 18, Swansea. 7.30pm, £3 adv. Info enquiries@ hangar18musicvenue.co.uk.

ESP The Plough, Whitchurch, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2062 3017.

Eulogy + King Kraken + Who Knows Didley Rhondda Hotel, Porth. 7pm, £3 adv. Info 01443 682388.

Glas City Arms, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2064 1913.

Heavy On The Ride + Peter Greene + Hobgoblin Sin City, Swansea. 7pm, £5/£3 adv. Info 01792 468892.

Hometown Shows gig.

Hollie-Anne Ty Newydd, Barry. 9pm, free. Info 01446 407767. uHub Festival Various venues, Womanby Street, Cardiff. £26 weekend/£16 Sat 24 or Sun 25 only/Fri 23 free.

Info info@themooncardiff. com. Annual multi-venue

Stay Voiceless (Fuel); Kiddus, Point Of View and Ailsa (City Arms); Veins Full Of Static, Mute Branches, Jacob Nico, Lowering and Sunbane (Blue Honey upstairs); Violet Skies, Little Red, Danielle Lewis and Izzy Grace, plus Comedy Sheep and Mega Verse (Beelzebub’s); Ivan Moult, The Honest Poet, Cloud Thieves, Mahouts, Laura Power and Juliette Bell Salter (Quiet Stage); Wounded Healers, Miss G, Sa Collective, TT, Ruth Vibes, Champa, DJ Mumble, E Why Easy, Benzy & Reuboyy, Luke RV, Unity, Lady SP, Fran B and DJ Triz (Community Stage); Manga Saint Hilare, Faith, MVE Collective, Shawgz & Asha, Evrah Rose, DJ Kalo and Switch Up DJs (Kong’s).

Sun 25: The Moon: The Echo & The Always, Living Body, SexSwing, Godspeed You! Peter Andre, Hourglvss, Melin Melyn, Bloom!, Risorius, Malgola No and Fawner (Moon); Red Telephone, Young Garbo, Black3lvis and Telgate (Clwb Ifor Bach upstairs); Breichiau Hir, Papur Wal, The

u – repeated

Zinvandels, Sarah Birch, Y Sybs, Inscape and Kim Hon (Clwb Ifor Bach downstairs); The Barefoot Bandits, Jessy Allen, Hunter From Fremonte, Dyme, Wigwam, Cactus Haus, Lazy Machine, Crystalline, Livin’ Cheap (Tiny Rebel); Year Of The Dog, Ramnastax, Chelsea Blues, Yasmine & The Euphoria, Mari Mathias, Burum and Ellie Parris (Bootlegger); Science Bastard, Eva Bartok, Die! Chihuahua Die!, The Killjoys, The D Teez, Penny Rich and Deathtraps (Fuel); Ayvo, Eadyth, Chembomusic and 100% Rabbit (City Arms); Jodie-Ann, Alekxandr and Chembomusic (Blue Honey upstairs); Jodie Marie, Kizzy Crawford and Asha Jane plus Comedy Sheep and Mega Verse (Beelzebub’s); Ophelia Xerri, Isa Belle, Hitesh, Mistry and Jemma Krysa (Quiet Tent); Stagga & Magugu and The Pride (Kong’s); Conrad Stone, Ez Rah, Cujo, Shawgz, Sick Off, DJ Lipz, Noah Bouchard, Razkid, Routine, Khia Greaves, DJ Effigy, Hayez, Skuzzy Cardiff, Just Jax, Jay Sun and DJ Reba (Community Stage and on the street). (Until Sun 25) Impersonating The Police Jac’s, Aberdare. 7.30pm, £7/£5 adv. Info 01685 879491. Police tribute band. Wish this was just the name of a regular band.

James Kennedy The Duke Of Wellington, Cowbridge.

9.30pm, free. Info 01446 773592.

Last Great Dreamers + Beth Blade And The Beautiful Disasters + The Biggest Thing Since Powdered Milk + Scavengers The Dolls House, Abertillery. 7pm, £10 adv. Info 01495 213300. Presented by Über Röck as part of their 10th birthday celebrations.

Mazula Cellar Bar, Cardigan.

8pm, £8/£6. Info 07818 056599.

Standup comedy.

Sugarspun The Big Top, Cardiff. 7-9.30pm, £6 adv. Info 029 2022 8883. Some sort of retro Britpop band by the sounds.

The Bella Collins Band Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £4/£3.

Info 029 2038 7026. Blues, jazz and soul. uThe Big Tribute Festival Lovesgrove, Aberystwyth. 1pm, £80 weekend/£25 kids/£10 under-12s/free under-5s.

Info 01970 623232. Annual weekend of tribute bands.

Today (day tickets £35/£30 adv; £12 adv kids; £5 adv under-12s): A Band Called Malice, Fell Out Boy, Too Rex, Guns 2 Roses and Meet Loaf.

Sat 24 (day tickets £40/£35 adv; £15 adv kids; £5 adv under-12s): Stereosonics, Bon Jovi UK, Jayne Milleton (Annie Lennox tribute), Little Chix, The Committed, Ultimate Elton & The Rocket Band and Coldplace. Sun 25 (day tickets same price as Sat 24): The Bryan Adams Experience, Liss Jones (Britney/Christina tribute), Chasing Mumford,

Michael Clews (Neil Diamond tribute), Maybe Gaga, the Koycat Killers and The Mersey Beatles. Other Stage (nontribute bands, imagine that) and the Little Rockers Stage: lineup TBC. (Until Sun 25) Virtue In Vain + Dayshifter + Good Morning Vietnam Fuel Rock Club, Cardiff. 7pm, free.

Info 07970 063107. Charity gig (donations encouraged I assume) in aid of Cystic Fybrosis Trust.

Who’s Next Earl Haig Memorial Club, Cardiff.

7.30pm, £12 adv. Info 029 2062 6015.

SATURDAY 24 AUGUST 360 Degrees Cockett Inn, Swansea. 9pm, free. Info 01792 588748.

Big Mac’s Wholly Soul Band Riverside Sports Bar & Kitchen, Newport. 9.30pm, £15 adv seated/£12 standing. Info 01633 439166.

Black Angus Rhondda Hotel, Porth. 7pm, £5 adv. Info 01443 682388. AC/DC tribute.

Black Magic: The Little Mix Show Theatr Hafren, Newtown. 7pm, £15/£12. Info 01686 614555. Tribute band.

Explosive Light Orchestra Torch Theatre, Milford Haven.

7.30pm, £18.50 adv. Info 01646 695267. ELO tribute band.

Hollie-Anne Birchgrove, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2031 1319.

Idle Crooks & Englishment + The Survival Code + Luna Kiss + Sweet Ignitions Fuel Rock Club, Cardiff. 7pm, £6 adv. Info 07970 063107.

Jada Kingdom Cotton Club, Newport. 8pm, £8-£15. Info 01633 213161 Dancehall/pop vocalist with a really good haircut (in this photo I’m currently looking at anyway). The Cotton Club is the new name for Warehouse54 by the way.

Jumpin’ Jimmy & The Nice Guys West End Club, Barry. 9pm. Info 01446 735739.

Nick Russell The Pod, Newport. 9.30pm. Info 01633 535440.

Reef Chepstow Castle.

6.30pm, £22 adv. Info 01291 627122. Castell Roc gig. In Tenby tomorrow, although it’s sold out.

Sepulchre + King Kraken + State Of Deceit The Duke, Neath. 8pm, free. Info 0300 3656677.

Simon Trigg Three Horse Shoes, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2069 4630.

The Brightoners Jac’s, Aberdare. 7pm. Info 01685 879491. Mod covers band.

The Low Down Dirty Dog Blues Band Carmarthen Park Lodge, Carmarthen. 1.303.30pm, free. Info rewiredmusic@gmail.com.

Presented by Rewired Music.

Tides Of Sulfur + Thorun + Blood Slugs Clwb Y Bont, Pontypridd. 7pm, £5. Info 01443 491424. Presented by DFTS.

FISH (Cardiff University, Thurs 14) FAT FREDDY’S DROP (Motorpoint Arena, Fri 15) MAVERICK SABRE (Tramshed, Fri 15) MARILLION (St David’s Hall, Sat 16) ATILLA (Cardiff University, Sun 17) GHOST (Motorpoint Arena, Sun 17) HAWKWIND (Tramshed, Wed 20) !!! (Clwb Ifor Bach, Wed 20) THE STEVE HILLAGE BAND BUZZ 74

SUNDAY 25 AUGUST Big Mac’s Wholly Soul Band Jac’s, Aberdare. 6pm, £12/£10 adv. Info 01685 879491.

Buttonsville Browns, Laugharne. 3pm, free. Info 01994 427688.

Disco Centric Rose & Crown, Pontypridd. 7-10pm, free. Info 01443 402244. Disco cover band.

Fortunate Sons West End Club, Barry. 5-8pm. Info 01446 735739.

Geoff Tate’s Operation: Mindcrime + Gin Annie Patti Pavilion, Swansea.

7.30pm, £20 adv. Info 01792 475444. Queensryche frontman tours under a name combining that band’s most famous album and, er, his own name.

Kanda Bongo Man + Kasai Masai Bluestone Brewing Company, Newport, Pembrokeshire. 7.30pm, £15 adv. Info 01239 820833.

Kwassa kwassa top dog headlines. I’ve got an LP of his from 1987, Amour Fou. It’s good.

Megaday Virginia Park, Caerphilly. 1.30-10.30pm, £10/£8. Info www.megaday. net. Featuring nine bands and other family fun, in aid of Velindre Cancer Centre.

Reef De Valence Pavilion, Tenby. 7.30pm, £22 adv. Info 01834 218228. Sold out!

Taking Care Of Elvis Chepstow Castle. 6.30pm, £25 adv. Info 01291 627122.

Castell Roc gig in which Ben Portsmouth plays Elvis and plays two sets from the ‘68 comeback’ and 70s eras.

The Kenny Driscoll Band Earl Haig Memorial Club, Cardiff. 6-8pm, free. Info 029 2062 6015.

The Soulman The Duke Of Wellington, Cowbridge. 9.30pm, free. Info 01446 773592.

The Undecided Riverside Sports Bar & Kitchen, Newport. 9pm. Info 01633 439166.

MONDAY 26 AUGUST John-Paul Gard Trio Jazz Lounge, Kings Head, Abergavenny. 7.30pm, £10/£8.

Info blackmountainjazz.co.uk.

Black Mountain Jazz present the first Wall2wall Jazz Festival gig this year, in a series which runs until Sun 1 Sept and which is previewed in Music.

Tommy Harris Quartet Noah’s Yard, Swansea. 8pm.

Info 01792 447360.

TUESDAY 27 AUGUST Jazz Cafe The Gate, Cardiff.

8pm, free. Info 029 2048 3344.

Lady Nade Duo Jazz Lounge, Kings Head, Abergavenny. 7.30pm, £10/£8.

Info blackmountainjazz.co.uk.

Bristol jazz/soul vocalist with a show titled Tribute To The Blues Dames.

Once & Future Band + Some Bodies + Pagan Wanderer Lu The Moon, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £10/£9 adv.

Info info@themooncardiff. com. Headliners are an American band on the Castle

Face label who play yachtworthy prog rock. Played Gwdihw not too long ago in fact.

String Beats / Goldies Cymru Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 1pm, £4.50. Info 01656 815995. Live music Now concert combining beatboxing and fiddle music; preceded by Goldies Cymru, music, dancing and talk with the aim of lifting older people out of isolation.

WEDNESDAY 28 AUGUST Bon Giovi Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 7pm, £20. Info 0871 4720400. Tribute band.

Brightr + H_ngm_n + These Five Years + Little To Nothing + The Camel Show The Bunkhouse, Swansea. 7pm, £5/£3 adv. Info info@bunkhousebar.co.uk.

Chris Dean, Trevor Brown, Paul Shepherd, Tom Hill & Vocalist Jo Harrop Rogerstone & Bassaleg Social Club, Bassaleg, Newport. 8pm, £10. Info malc@dancebands. plus.com. A South Wales Big Band Society gig.

Concerts & Cakes Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 12.30pm, £5.

Info 0845 2263510.

Jonny Bruce Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 8pm, £9.50. Info 01656 815995. Trumpeter plays Jazz Club night here, with a trio.

Naimi Rae Melville Centre, Abergavenny. 12pm, £5. Info blackmountainjazz.co.uk. A Jazz For Little’uns performance, aimed at ages 2-4.

Open Mic Night NosDa, Cardiff. 7.30pm, free. Info 029 2037 8866. Tonight’s host is Dr Bland’s Bad Batch.

Oxbowlake + The Roselles + Rhys Davies Band The New Crown Inn, Merthyr Tydfil. 9-11pm, £3.

Info 01685 387925. A U&I Radio night.

Skinny Molly Earl Haig Memorial Club, Cardiff.

7.30pm, £12 adv. Info 029 2062 6015. Southern rock with Skynyrd and Blackfoot members.

Tacocat + Twen Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £8.50.

Info 029 2023 2199. See Music for a preview of the dayglo feminist punk headliners The Sicknote Steve Bluegrass Trio Jazz Lounge, Kings Head, Abergavenny. 7.30pm, £10/£8.

Info blackmountainjazz.co.uk.

Wall2wall Jazz Festival gig.

THURSDAY 29 AUGUST Cate Le Bon Portland House, Cardiff Bay. 7.30pm, £19.25 adv. Info 029 2048 7602. See Music.

Ian Poole Quartet The Pear Tree, Cardiff. 8pm, free. Info 029 2025 2042.

Ian Shaw Angel Hotel, Abergavenny. 7.30pm, £38.

Info blackmountainjazz.co.uk.

Wall2wall Jazz Festival dinner concert, food being included in the price.

Little Steven & The Disciples Of Soul Tramshed, Cardiff. 7pm, £36.50 adv. Info 029 2023 5555. AKA Steven Van Zandt, from the E Street

Band and off of The Sopranos, plus so-called disciples.

Silent Forum + Y Sybs + Papa Jupe’s Taurus Club The Moon, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £6. Info info@themooncardiff. com. Welsh indie bands presented by Libertino.

FRIDAY 30 AUGUST Basement + Honeylung Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff. 7pm, £18. Info 029 2023 2199. Poppunky stuff, sold out quite a while ago. uBetween The Trees Candleston Campsite, nr Bridgend. £70 weekend (£30 under-18s); £20 Fri 30 (£5 under-18s); £30 Sat 31 (£10 under-18s); £20 Sun 1 Sept (£5 under-18s); £5 weekend/£1 per day under-5s. Info betweenthetrees.co.uk. Threeday festival of wholesome indie/folk/pop music plus natural science and art-based events including film screenings. Today features live music from Flight Brigade, Firewoodisland, James Bower and Ellis Thomas. Sat 31: Benjamin Francis Leftwich, Noble Jacks, Sam Kelly, Kit Hawes & Aaron Catlow, Darren Eedens & The Slim Pickins, Ofelia, Sera, Christopher Rees, Little Red, Cara Cullen, Bryony Sier and Rob Lear.

Sun 1 Sept: Luke Jackson Trio, Toby Hay, The Trials Of Cato, The Black Feathers, Aled Rheon, Eve Goodman and Bella Collins & Gareth Evans.

(Until Sun 1 Sept) Bobbie-Jo And The Knock Café Jazz, Cardiff. 8pm, £4/£3.

Info 029 2038 7026.

Calypso The Twelve Knights, Port Talbot. 9pm, free. Info 01639 882381.

Debs Hancock & Dave Hobbs Melville Centre, Abergavenny. 8.15pm, £5/free to ticketholders. Info blackmountainjazz.co.uk.

Wall2wall Jazz Festival gig as a sort of digestif for the John Law one listed below.

Ghost Train The Duke Of Wellington, Cowbridge. 9.30pm, free. Info 01446 773592.

Jacob Rocks Concert Jac’s, Aberdare. 5.25pm, £5 adv. Info 01685 879491. Jacob being a child whose family are aiming to raise funds for him to have neuroblastoma cancer treatment in the US. This will feature five bands who are currently TBC. James Kennedy City Arms, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2064 1913.

John Law’s Re-Creations Melville Centre, Abergavenny.

7pm, £16/£14. Info blackmountainjazz.co.uk.

Wall2wall Jazz Festival gig.

Nick Kacal’s Guerillasound Quartet Melville Centre, Abergavenny.

9.15pm, £18. Info blackmountainjazz.co.uk.

Wall2wall Jazz Festival gig.

Organ Recital National Museum Cardiff. 1pm, free.

Info 029 2039 7951.

Rxptrs + November Plot The Dragonffli, Pontypool.

7pm. Info gigs@ thedragonffli.com.

CHARLIE PARR / JD WILKES The Art Shop & Chapel, Abergavenny, Sat 31 Aug Tickets: £21. Info: 01873 736430 / www.artshopmaterials.co.uk This venue has also been bigged up in this issue for its food and general atmosphere, in the 5 Of The Best section specifically, and their quietly impressive programme of folk and Americana bookings has snared a brace of respected American names for August’s twilight. Charlie Parr [pictured], from Minnesota, didn’t start his career in earnest until his mid-30s but more than 15 years on has established himself as a fine voice in downhome country blues; this’ll be his first south Wales gig since 2010. Touring partner JD Wilkes is a Kentucky fella who started off in the 90s, with cult blues-punks the Legendary Shack Shakers, and has played guest harmonica for a sheaf of big American names, including Merle Haggard.

Sepulchre + In Which It Burns + Stitched Up + Athenas Belt Creature Sound, Swansea. 9pm, free.

Info 01792 301178.

Stand Atlantic Sin City, Swansea. 7pm, £11 adv. Info 01792 468892. Australian poppunk band, presented here by Orchard. uThe Big Cwtch Glanrannell Park House, Crugybar, Carmarthenshire.

12pm, £50 weekend/£60 inc camping/£15-£40 Sat 31 only.

Info info@thebigcwtch.com.

Two-day indie/folk/pop type festival with street food, family events and the following live actsa (runing order TBC): Adwaith, Mathilde Bataille, Dan Bettridge, Mellt, The Moon Birds, Sister Bodhi, Ivan Moult, The Hat & Fiddle Band, Chembomusic, Year Of The Dog, Gillie, The Zinfandels, Prima Queen, Christian Punter, Cynefin, Sarah Birch, Lucy Jones, Mari Mathias, Ailsa Tully, Belle Mellor, The Algal Bloom, Ian Shimmin, Jake Manning & Becca O’Hara, Rum Shunk, Will Jones, Llew Davies, Rhys Sutcliffe, Isobel And Alan and Made With Oats.

On tomorrow also.

The Dapper Cadavers + The Chalk Outlines Small World Theatre, Cardigan. 8pm, £12 adv. Info 01239 615952.

Ska, reggae, 2-tone etc.

The Stoned Roses Platform 11, Pontypridd. 6pm, £5 adv.

Info www.platform11.co.uk.

Locally based tribute band.

Tom Auton The Moon, Cardiff. 7pm, pay by donation.

Info info@themooncardiff. com. Fundraiser gig for this venue.

Touch The Fist Cross Keys Hotel, Neath. 8.30pm, free.

Info 01639 643927. Rock covers from a band who feature members of ‘live entertainment at provincial university’s Freshers Ball circa 1992’ band Dr & The Medics. In Porth tomorrow.

Wayne Hussey + Evi Vine Fuel Rock Club, Cardiff. 7pm, £20 adv. Info 07970 063107.

Yerman from The Mission headlines, touring to promote his autobiography Salad Daze.

SATURDAY 31 AUGUST Blackmore’s Blood The Patriot, Crumlin. 8pm. Info 01495 247178. As in Ritchie, and a tribute to his work in Deep Purple and Rainbow.

Maybe not so much his becostumed medieval ballads with his wife, but who knows.

Calavera Clwb Y Bont, Pontypridd. 7.30pm. Info 01443 491424. Classic rock covers.

Charlie Parr + JD Wilkes Art Shop & Chapel, Abergavenny. 7.30pm, £20 adv.

Info 01873 852960. Two US country/blues/old timey musicians. Parr played Cardiff a few years back and Wilkes was a member of the Legendary

Shack Shakers, who are quite well regarded though I don’t think I’ve ever listened to them.

Choral Evensong Priory Centre, St Mary’s, Abergavenny. 5.30-6.30pm.

Info 01873 858787. Featuring a performance by Academia Musica, as part of St Mary’s Liturgical Festival.

Chube feat Dennis Rollins Melville Centre, Abergavenny.

7pm, £18/£16. Info blackmountainjazz.co.uk.

Wall2wall Jazz Festival gig.

Crazy Town + Apathy Avenue + Foxbite + Dead Crow The Bunkhouse, Swansea. 7pm, £11 adv. Info info@bunkhousebar.co.uk.

ESP Birchgrove, Cardiff. 9pm, free. Info 029 2031 1319.

Guns 2 Roses + Surreal Panther De Valence Pavilion, Tenby. 8pm, £13 adv. Info 01834 218228. Tribute bands.

Guns N Joneses The Hyst, Swansea. 7pm, free. Info 01792 654366. Possibly not a Guns N’ Roses tribute band. Although it might be.

Hometown Glory Jac’s, Aberdare. 7pm, £13/£10 adv.

Info 01685 879491. Adele tribute.

Huw Eddy & The Carnival The Globe At Hay, Hay-On-Wye. 8pm, £7. Info 01497 821762.

King Kraken + Grym + Harbour Way Hangar 18, Swansea. 7.30pm, £5/£4 adv.

Info enquiries@ hangar18musicvenue.co.uk.

(Tramshed, Fri 22) PRIMAL SCREAM (Cardiff University, Sat 23) FRANK TURNER (St David’s Hall, Sun 24) FAT WHITE FAMILY (Tramshed, Wed 27) HALESTORM (Motorpoint Arena, Wed 27) HAPPY MONDAYS (Cardiff University, Fri 29) ADAM ANT (St David’s Hall, Sat 30) HUGH CORNWELL (Sin City, Swansea, Sat 30) BUZZ 75

BAFTA CYMRU AUGUST 2019 Our summer so far has been spent in the joyous company of 144 industry professionals over 25 nights as they deliberated and decided on the nominees and winners for this year’s 28th British Academy Cymru Awards, aka the BAFTA Cymru Awards. We’ve worked hard as a committee to ensure that there was a gender balance at these important meetings – they were 53% female in the end – and held three of the meetings in north Wales to bring in other voices. 12 of our jurors joined remotely so that we could include voices from different parts of Wales as well as over the border (with one in China).

The results of these deliberations will be unveiled during our live nominations announcement at 1.30pm on Thurs 5 Sept via a livestream on our Facebook page, so make sure you tune in to find out who is nominated across 25 craft, performance and production categories this year.

The next ‘moment’ in our Awards journey will come on Thurs 3 Oct when we host our Nominees Party and announce the recipients of our two special awards.

The Sian Phillips Award and Outstanding Contribution Award are presented by our BAFTA Cymru Committee to those who have made significant international contributions to film, games and television.

Then onto the week of the event, where we’ll be announcing who is joining us as guest presenters and nominees during the week of the Awards, with the evening itself kicking off with red carpet arrivals from 6pm. Everyone who wants to be with us on the red carpet, champagne reception, ceremony and after party can and should come along. Tickets go on sale for the Awards on Thurs 5 Sept via our website. You are all invited – we’d love you to be part of the night!

Info: www.bafta.org/wales

BUZZ 76

Lipstick On Your Collar Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl.

7.30pm, £21.50/£20.50. Info 01656 815995. Rock’n’rollinto-the-Beatles-era musical theatre revue.

Maroon V + The Kill3rs The Globe, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £10 adv. Info 07590 471888.

Tribute bands.

National Youth Choir Of Wales Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 8pm, £10/£5. Info 01970 623232. Conducted by Tim Rhys Evans.

Oh, The Guilt + Lessens + Seaside Witch Coven + Monics + Ginger Moush + Sakanaman Le Public Space, Newport. 4.30-11pm, £8 adv/£13 with cassette. Info sam@lepub.co.uk. This is hosted by The Shonk and you can also buy a tape featuring all the acts playing.

Paul Dark The Mariners, Laugharne. 8.30pm, free. Info 01994 427688.

Punchline Black Boy, Swansea. 9pm, free. Info 01792 299469.

Retrospect Riverside Sports Bar & Kitchen, Newport. 9pm.

Info 01633 439166.

Rocket Joe Joe & The Old Time Bangers Porter’s, Cardiff. 8pm. Info info@ porterscardiff.com.

Sarah Gillespie Sextet Melville Centre, Abergavenny.

9.15pm, £19. Info blackmountainjazz.co.uk.

Wall2wall Jazz Festival gig.

Simon Trigg The Red Dragon, Bridgend. 8.30pm, free. Info 01656 654753.

Summer Proms Day 1 Rhos Y Gilwen, Pembrokeshire.

8-9.45pm, £15 adv. Info 01239 841387. First of two days of music, including works

by Dvorak, Beethoven and Schumann, performed by members of the Orchestra Of The Royal Opera House.

The Big Bluesy Jazz Band Melville Centre, Abergavenny.

12.15pm, £13/£11. Info blackmountainjazz.co.uk.

Wall2wall Jazz Festival gig.

The Goodyear Bop Septet Melville Centre, Abergavenny.

4.45pm, £14/£12. Info blackmountainjazz.co.uk.

Wall2wall Jazz Festival gig.

The Hold Up: Inner City Cypher Oner Signs, Cardiff.

1-5pm, free. Info 029 2037 1231. Monthly hip-hop session inviting MCs, beatboxers, DJs etc down to jam.

The Last Supper The Printhaus, Canton, Cardiff.

1-11pm, £30. Info 029 2022 0349. Closing party for the Printhaus in this venue, featuring live music from Tom Bromage, Starlings Planet, John Mouse and a headliner TBC, plus DJing from Tom Raybould, a ton of food and the invitation to make whatever sort of art you like on the walls, as they’re getting knocked down or at least painted over soon.

The Navarones Earl Haig Memorial Club, Cardiff. 8pm, £7/£6 adv. Info 029 2062 6015.

Touch The Fist Rhondda Hotel, Porth. 7pm, £4 adv. Info 01443 682388.

Wales Beatbox Championships The Moon, Cardiff. 4-11.30pm, free (£5 to take part). Info info@ themooncardiff.com. Annual

event, although in the Moon for the first time I think. Email cardiffbeatboxbattles@gmail. com if you fancy your chances.

Witherward + Peter Crow + Felix Subway Creature Sound, Swansea. 7pm. Info 01792 301178.

stage THURSDAY 1 AUGUST uDisney’s The Little Mermaid Jr Sophia Gardens, Cardiff. 12 + 2.30pm, £10/ free carers. Info 0333 6663366.

Cardiff Open Air Theatre Festival performance, presented here by Andgo Theatre.

On at 10.30am and 12.30pm on Sat 3. (Until Sat 3) uJesus Christ Superstar Sophia Gardens, Cardiff. 8pm, £17/£15 under-18s/free carers.

Info 0333 6663366. Cardiff Open Air Theatre Festival performance of noted rock opera.

On at 3pm and 8pm on Sat 3.

(Until Sat 3) uKinky Boots Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7.30pm, £19.50-£64.50.

Info 029 2063 6464. Musical based on a mid-00s film, itself based on actual events concerning the owner of a shoe

£12/£8. Info 01446 738622.

Music and dance presented

by Nimba. a West African company based in Wales.

Ceri Dupree De Valence Pavilion, Tenby. 7.30pm, £10-£15. Info 01834 218228.

Seasoned Welsh impersonator of women.

Mr Magnolia Colby Woodland Gardens, nr Narberth. 6pm, £12/£10 kids.

Info 01834 869323. Family theatre presented by Span Arts.

Persuasion New Theatre, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £25. Info 029 2087 8889. Musical adaption of this Jane Austen work, presented by Chamber Opera Tours and in Wales for the first time. Fastidiously authentic to the era, it seems, but also with Irish dancing bits.

Supper Clwb: Musical Theatre Ffresh, Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7.30pm, £30 including food. Info 029 2063 6464.

Curated by David Mahoney and featuring Jonathan Radford, Vikki Bebb, Craig Yates, and pianist Nicki Rose.

The first Supper Clwb night in Ffresh this month, others being on Sat 10 and Sat 17. uThe Dreamboys Pulse, Cardiff. 6.30pm, £40/£30. Info 029 2064 1010. Male strip-

Shakespearian theatre company The HandleBards are very on brand for these planetfrying times, as they travel everywhere by bicycle. On Fri 9, they pedal to The Globe in Hay-On-Wye to perform Much Ado About Nothing. factory in Northampton. On tomorrow at 8.30pm; 2.30pm and 7.30pm on Sat 3. £24.50£72.50 on Fri 2 and Sat 3.

(Until Sat 3) FRIDAY 2 AUGUST Comedy Club Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 7.30pm, £12. Info 0845 2263510. With comedians TBC. uDrones Comedy Club Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff.

8.30pm, £3.50. Info 029 2030 4400. Also on Fri 16. uResident Magicians The Small Space, Barry. 7.30pm, £20. Info info@thesmallspace. co.uk. Notably small (only 20 seats!) magic-centred Vale venue. On every Friday and Saturday this month. uSol Bernstein + Emmanuel Sonubi + Brendan Dempsey + Noel James Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 7pm, £16.50/£8.50 NUS/£24.95 with food. Info 0871 4720400.

On tomorrow also (£19/£10 NUS/£27.95 with food).

The Sea Show Town Hall, Maesteg. 2pm, £5.50. Info 01656 815995. Puppet/cabaret theatre for ages 5+, presented

by Squashbox.

SATURDAY 3 AUGUST African Summer Memorial Hall Theatre, Barry. 7pm,

pers of renown, on here every Saturday night until the end of November. They can be in more than one location at once as lots of Dreamboys are employed for maximum efficiency, like Mark Morrison used to do.

The Sand Dragon Torch Theatre, Milford Haven.

1.30pm, £7/£6 kids. Info 01646 695267. Kids’ puppet theatre courtesy of Paul Batten and Theatrix Arts. Also includes a workshop after the performance, which costs an extra £1 per child.

The Selfish Giant Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 11am, £6.50. Info 01656 815995.

Wildean kids’ story, aimed at ages 3+ here.

SUNDAY 4 AUGUST uFamily Show The Small Space, Barry. 5.30pm, £12.50.

Info info@thesmallspace. co.uk. Magic show with kids in mind. Also on Mon 12, Tue 13, Mon 19, Tue 20, Mon 26 and Tue 27 this month, plus Sun 1 Sept. uLive Cabaret Market Street Club, Barry. 8.30pm.

Info 01446 733863. Every Sunday.

TUESDAY 6 AUGUST uChicago The Met,

Abertillery. 7pm, £12/£10. Info 01495 355945. Musical presented by AYDMS. (Until Fri 9) uMadagascar The Musical Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7pm, £16-£31. Info 029 2063 6464.

Popular big screen animation is anthropomorphically staged with Matt Terry playing Alex the lion (apart from on Sat 10, when he’s going to the Smash It Out noiserock alldayer at Brixton’s Windmill venue instead). On at 2pm and 7pm on Thurs 8 and Sat 10 (2pm Thurs 8 is a relaxed performance; 7pm Thurs 8 is signed); 2pm only on Sun 11.

2pm Sat 10 is audio described. £18-£34 from Fri 9-Sun 11.

(Until Sun 11) You Will Laugh Le Public Space, Newport. 8pm, pay by donation. Info youwilllaughcomedy@gmail. com. Monthly open mic comedy night with some guest acts also set to appear.

Yvie Oddly + Plastique Tiara Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 7.30pm, £25/£50 VIP. Info 0871 4720400. Double-header drag special featuring two Drag Race season 11 alumni, plus host Ru Jazzle. VIP ticket includes a meet’n’greet which starts at 6pm.

WEDNESDAY 7 AUGUST uThe Merry Wives Of Windsor St Dogmaels Abbey.

8pm, £10/£8. Info 01239 621200. Presented by the Abbey Shakespeare Players in ‘modern’ form, as hinted by the illustration for this event which shows both wives dressed like, idk, WAGs or Kardashians or something.

(Until Sat 10) uYes, Prime Minister Dylan Thomas Theatre, Swansea. 7.30pm, £12/£10.

Info 01792 473238. Stage version of fondly-recalled 1980s UK governmental sitcom, updated by the writers themselves to address contemporary issues. “The play still rings with relevance today as we all face Brexit!!” say the venue. Fairly certain that even if we didn’t there would still be noteworthy political events now and again.

THURSDAY 8 AUGUST Interior Designs Town Hall, Maesteg. 1pm, £6.50. Info 01656 815995. Lunchtime theatre, presented by Fluellen and featuring a new comedy written by Kate Bowman.

Penny Matthews Elysium Gallery, Swansea. 8pm, free.

Info www.elysiumgallery.com.

Ministry Of Absurdism present a “not in Edinburgh special” comedy show titled The Whirligig Of Time.

FRIDAY 9 AUGUST uKai Humphries + Carey Marx + Luke Toulson Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 7pm, £16.50/£8.50 NUS/£24.95 with food. Info 0871 4720400.

On tomorrow also (£19/£10 NUS/£27.95 with food); one more comic TBC on both nights.

Much Ado About Nothing The Globe At Hay, Hay-On-Wye. 4pm, £12. Info 01497 821762.

Shakespeare as performed

by The HandleBards, whose premise is that they travel everywhere carrying themselves and all their props etc on pushbikes. uOliver! Aberystwyth Arts Centre. 7.30pm, £30/£28. Info 01970 623232. Lionel Bart’s musical, directed by Richard Cheshire and running for the majotory of August as is customary for this venue. On at 2.30pm and 7.30pm on Sat 10, Wed 14, Thurs 15, Sat 17, Wed 21, Thurs 22 (afternoon performances of this will be BSL interpreted), Sat 24, Wed 28, Thurs 29 and Sat 31; 2.30pm only on Sun 18 and Sun 25. No performances on Sun 11, Mon 12, Mon 19 and Mon 26. (Until Sat 31) The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party Miners Theatre, Ammanford. 6.30pm, £8/£5.

Info 0845 2263510. Lewis Carroll’s story is adapted by Brother Wolf, indeed it is 21 years this year since they first did so.

What’s In The Box? Theatr Mwldan, Cardigan.

4.30pm. Info 01239 621200.

Performance of work devised by kids aged 12-16 at the Mwldan Summer School this week.

Wilma Lee-Thomas WOW Bar, Cardiff. 10pm. Info wowbarcardiff.com. Welsh cabaret act/party host provides Friday night entertainment at this bar’s new venue, the building that Buffalo vacated in January.

Thieves Abergavenny Castle.

4.15pm, £14/£8. Info 01873 850805. Open air theatre, presented by Illyria. In Cardigan tomorrow.

FRIDAY 23 AUGUST

BELONGING Small World Theatre, Cardigan, Sat 17 Aug Tickets: £12/£10. Info: 01239 615952 / smallworld.org.uk This month, The Golden Thread theatre company is hosting a one-timeonly playback theatre experience in Cardigan. Playback theatre is a form of improvisation theatre, dating back to the 1970s, in which audience members share their lives or stories before watching performers re-enact them live on stage. The Golden Thread, founded in 2012, is to date the only playback theatre company in Wales. The theme of this particular evening, meanwhile, is belongings: audience members who are happy to share will discuss what belonging means to them, be it a place, their family, friends or their culture.

The performers will then relate these stories, aiming to capture their essence through drama and music.

SATURDAY 10 AUGUST Supper Clwb: Burlesque Ffresh, Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7.30pm, £30 including food. Info 029 2063 6464. Featuring Hula Hoop, Kimmy Von Shimmy, Kheski Kobler, Oola Pearl and MC John Celestus.

SUNDAY 11 AUGUST MathildaMathilda Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon. 11am, £10/£8. Info 01874 611622.

Kids’ theatre featuring; live action performance, puppetry, projections, original jazz numbers and, if I’m reading this right, a protagonist with two heads.

TUESDAY 13 AUGUST uClub Tropicana Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7.30pm, £16.50-£39.50.

Info 029 2063 6464. Eightiesthemed musical starring Joe McElderry and one of the Trigger’s broom-era Sugababes. On at 5.30pm and 8.30pm on Fri 16; 4pm and 7.30pm on Sat 17. Thurs 15 is signed; 5.30pm Fri 16 is open captioned; 4pm Sat 17 is audio described. £19.50-£45.50 on Fri 16 and Sat 17. (Until Sat 17) Gangsta Granny Bryngarw Park, nr Bridgend. 6pm, £12.50/£8.50. Info 01656 815995. Open air theatre based on a David Walliams’ kids book and presented by Heartbreak Productions. In Swansea on Wed 21; Abergavenny on Fri 30.

WEDNESDAY 14 AUGUST Roy Chubby Brown

Princess Royal Theatre, Port Talbot. 6pm, £14.50/£12.50 kids. Info 01639 763214. In Cwmbran tomorrow.

Sense & Sensibility Abergavenny Castle. 6.15pm, £14/£8. Info 01873 850805.

Open air theatre, presented by The Pantaloons and based on the Jane Austen novel.

The Tempest Cardigan Castle. 7pm, £10-£15 adv.

Info 01239 621200. Open-air theatre presented by Illyria. In Powys tomorrow.

THURSDAY 15 AUGUST Dolly Chicken Comedy: Fun At The Flute Flute & Tankard, Cardiff. 7.3010.30pm, £7.50/£6 adv. Info dollychickencomedy@gmail. com. Featuring Jeff Japers, Beth Jones, Leroy Brito and MC Anita Shaw.

Roy Chubby Brown Congress Theatre, Cwmbran.

7.30pm, £26.40. Info 01633 868239.

The Crow House Town Hall, Maesteg. 2pm, £6. Info 01656 815995. Children’s circus theatre incpired by silent movies and set in a derelict house.

The Tempest Montgomery Castle, Powys. 6pm, £9-£15 adv. Info 01686 668442.

FRIDAY 16 AUGUST uAndrea Hubert + Gordon Southern + Steve Gribbin + Damian Clark Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 7pm, £16.50/£8.50 NUS/£24.95 with food. Info 0871 4720400.

On tomorrow also (£19/£10 NUS/£27.95 with food).

uSwan Lake New Theatre, Cardiff. 7.30pm, £12.50-£24.50.

Info 029 2087 8889. New production of world famous ballet, presented here by English Youth Ballet. On tomorrow also, at 2.30pm and 7.30pm.

SATURDAY 17 AUGUST Belonging Small World Theatre, Cardigan. 6.45pm, £12/£10. Info 01239 615952.

The Golden Thread Playback Theatre Company present a community theatre piece improvised from talks with the audience.

Faulty Towers: The Dining Experience Queens Hall, Narberth. 1 + 7pm, £45 adv. Info 01834 869323. Hooky version of popular two-season sitcom, with a three-course meal included in the price.

Supper Clwb: Drag Ffresh, Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7.30pm, £30 including food. Info 029 2063 6464. Hosted by Connie Orff and featuring Michael Twaits, Venetia Blind and Laura Nadia Hunt.

SUNDAY 18 AUGUST All That Cabaret! Chapel 1877, Cardiff. 6.30-9.30pm, £15-£39. Info 029 2022 2020.

Songs from the musicals etc

by Vikki Bebb, Tom Richards, Caitlin McKee and Jonathan Radford. Prosecco, canapes and a meal available at various prices. uThe Tiger Who Came To Tea Princess Royal Theatre, Port Talbot. 1.30pm, £14. Info 01639 763214. Kids’ theatre

based on famous book. On tomorrow also, at 11am and 2pm.

MONDAY 19 AUGUST uAnnie Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay. 7.30pm, £19-£44. Info 029 2063 6464.

See Upfront for more on this West End musical starring Craig Revel Horwood as Miss Hannigan (apart from Mon 26 and Fri 30). On at 2.30pm and 7.30pm on Thurs 22, Sat 24, Thurs 29 and Sat 31. 7.30pm Thurs 22 is signed; 7.30pm Thurs 29 is open captioned; 2.30pm Sat 31 is audio described. £22-£48 on Fro 23, Sat 24, Fri 30 and Sat 31.

(Until Sat 31) TUESDAY 20 AUGUST Private Lives Abergavenny Castle. 6.15pm, £14/£8. Info 01873 850805. Open air theatre, written by Noël Coward and presented by Heartbreak Productions.

WEDNESDAY 21 AUGUST Gangsta Granny Oystermouth Castle, Swansea.

3-5pm, £13/£9. Info 01792 475715. uMen At Arms The Gate, Cardiff. 6.30pm, £9/£7. Info 029 2048 3344. Peculiar Productions present a theatrical adaption of a Terry Pratchett novel. On at 1.30pm and 6.30pm on Sat 24. (Until Sat 24) THURSDAY 22 AUGUST Ali Baba And The Forty

Ali Baba And The Forty Thieves Cardigan Castle.

6pm, £10-£14 adv. Info 01239 621200. uCastaway: Coarse Acting Strikes Back Aberystwyth Arts Centre.

7.45pm, £12/£10. Info 01970 623232. Local adault community drama group Castaway perform a play currently TBC. On tomorrow also. uDana Alexander + James Sherwood + Robert White Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 7pm, £16.50/£8.50 NUS/£24.95 with food. Info 0871 4720400. On tomorrow also (£19/£10 NUS/£27.95 with food); one more comic TBC on both nights.

Much Ado About Nothing Lampeter House, nr Narberth.

7pm, £6-£14. Info 01834 869323. Shakespeare, performed by the Festival Players Theatre Company and presented by Span Arts.

MONDAY 26 AUGUST SoapBox Comedy Night NosDa, Cardiff. 8pm, free.

Info 029 2037 8866. Open mic standup night, you can get a free beer if you participate.

TUESDAY 27 AUGUST Sam And Mark’s On the Road Show The Riverfront, Newport. 3pm, £13.25. Info 01633 656757. Kids’ TV duo do their thing in a live setting.

WEDNESDAY 28 AUGUST Chores Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon. 6pm, £10/£8. Info 01874 611622. Comedy circus show aimed at kids and based around two brothers who don’t want to tidy their room. uLove’s Labour’s Lost Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 7.30pm, £10. Info 0845 2263510. David Amateur Shakespeare, presented by Boom Productions.

(Until Sat 31) uMr Stink Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli. 6.30pm, £19/£17. Info 0845 2263510. Another David Walliams’ kids book, presented here by Chickenshed Theatre Company. On at 2pm and 7pm tomorrow; 2pm only on Fri 30.

(Until Fri 30) Wuthering Heights Bryngarw Park, nr Bridgend.

6.30pm, £12.50/£8.50. Info 01656 815995. Open air theatre based on the Emmy B novel and presented by Heartbreak Productions. In Swansea tomorrow.

and his guitar-playing human friend. On at 11am and 2pm from tomorrow until Sun 1 Sept. (Until Sun 1 Sept) What’s In The Box? Beelzebub’s, Cardiff. 7pm, free.

Info events@ craftydevilbrewing.co.uk. New improv comedy night which is scheduled to be on the last Thursday of each month and will feature three-minute slots on a topic chosen by the audience.

Wuthering Heights Oystermouth Castle, Swansea.

7.30-10.30pm, £14/£11. Info 01792 475715.

FRIDAY 30 AUGUST uBarry Dodds + Micky P Kerr + Adam Bloom Glee Club, Cardiff Bay. 7pm, £16.50/£8.50 NUS/£24.95 with food. Info 0871 4720400.

On tomorrow also (£19/£10 NUS/£27.95 with food); one more comic TBC on both nights.

Gangsta Granny Abergavenny Castle. 4.15pm, £14/£8. Info 01873 850805.

Open air theatre, the last one of the season here in fact.

Jeff Japers + Kris Davies + Dylan Jones + Paul Hilleard + Alex Perkes The Globe At Hay, Hay-On-Wye. 7.30pm, £8. Info 01497 821762.

Comedy night.

SATURDAY 31 AUGUST Curtain Call Grand Theatre, Swansea. 7pm, £15.50. Info 01792 475715. Musical theatre entertainment, presented by Harry’s Youth Theatre.

Joan Williams Stage School: Celebrating 40 Years Y Ffwrnes, Llanelli.

5pm, £10/£8. Info 0845 2263510. Anniversary showcase performance.

The Dreamboys St David’s Hall, Cardiff. 8pm, £19.50£28.50. Info 029 2087 8444.

“The UK’s ultimate Magic Mike style show,” in the same way the Beatles are the UK’s ultimate Monkees style 60s pop band. uThe Wizard Of Oz Savoy Theatre, Monmouth. 2 + 6pm, £7/£5. Info 01600 772467.

Presented by Savoy Youth Theatre. On tomorrow also, at 11am and 2pm.

Tom Thumb Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl. 10.30pm, £6.50.

Info 01656 815995. Kids’ theatre performed, claims the blurb, entirely on and under a kitchen table.

THURSDAY 29 AUGUST Grange For A Laugh The Grange, Cardiff. 7.45pm, free.

Info 029 2025 0669. Standup in pleasant Grangetown pub on the last Thursday of every month. uTabby McTat New Theatre, Cardiff. 1 + 3.30pm, £12-£16. Info 029 2087 8889.

The axis of Axel Scheffler and Julia Donaldson comes good again with this stage adaption of a kids’ book about a cat BUZZ 77

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To enter a competition, keep an eye on our social media channels and click ‘like’ and ‘share’ when published. Alternatively, email competitions@buzzmag.co.uk with the name of the competition in the subject line and up to two sentences on why you think you should win the competition. The more original you are, the better your chances.

Castle Beach in Tenby was named the Sunday Times Beach Of The Year 2019.

There are over 1,000 different flavours of ice cream, but vanilla remains the world’s favourite flavour.

Praia do Cassino Beach in Brazil is the longest beach in the world, reaching around 150 miles long.

TWO TICKETS TO CLUB TROPICANA AT WALES MILLENNIUM CENTRE

The hottest day ever in Wales was recorded at 35.2˚C on 2 Aug 1990.

Get partying at the Millennium Centre with a pair of tickets to this retro-fuelled musical on Fri 16 Aug. Club Tropicana is chock-a-block full of ‘80s hits, the sort that you’ll almost instantly be singing along to, and the stars include X-Factor winner Joe McElderry, Kate Robbins and Amelle Berrabah, a former Sugababe.

The first rubber river raft is believed to have been invented in the 1840s by Lt. John Fremont and inventor Horace H. Day, who intended to use it to survey the Rocky Mountains and the Great Plains.

ONE COPY OF FEEDER’S NEW ALBUM TALLULAH Feeder are back with their brand-new album, Tallulah, released on Fri 9 Aug. The Welsh rock band, who formed in Newport in 1994, have released a total of 10 studio albums, 40 singles, and four EPs. Tallulah is reviewed in this issue, our writer saying, “Absolutely great to see the guys back to their best.”

TWO TICKETS TO PONTY’S BIG WEEKEND For the first time in five years, Orchard Live are brining Ponty’s Big Weekend back to Ynysangharad War Memorial Park on Sat 17 Aug. This year will feature a headline performance from English rock legends, Ocean Colour Scene, and joining them are The Bluetones, Buzzard Buzzard Buzzard, The Pitchforks, Al Moses, Young Garbo and Newport’s own Goldie Lookin Chain.

The term coasteering – the sport or activity of exploring a rocky coatline by climbing, jumping and swimming – is said to have been first used by a group of friends from Pembrokeshire in the 1970s.

The largest pier in the world is Southend Pier in Southend-On-Sea, at 1.34 miles long.

Approximately 2.1 million people in 2018 attended Alton Towers’ theme park in Stoke-On-Trent.

There are over 10,000 zoos in the world, and Henry Doorly Zoo in Nebraska is considered to be the largest.

On average, 2,195 kg of bananas are served at the Wimbledon Championship, along with approximately 166,055 portions of strawberries and cream.

TWO TICKETS TO SWAN LAKE AT THE NEW THEATRE The New Theatre is welcoming the English Youth Ballet’s new production of Swan Lake to Cardiff. The company’s performance of Tchaikovsky’s ballet promises to be a traditional production which will also emphasise the rivalry between the dark Black Swan Odile and the vulnerable White Swan Odette as they compete for the affection of the prince.

Catch it on the Fri 16 Aug opening night.

FOUR TICKETS TO THE BIG CWTCH IN CRUGYBAR This boutique festival out in the Carmarthenshire countryside returns on Fri 30 and Sat 31 Aug. You and three friends or family members can join 3,500 other revellers watching live music from the likes of Adwaith, Sister Bodhi and Ivan Moult, as well as all manner of family events and quality food. Read more about the Big Cwtch in our Secret Spaces section at the front of this issue.

Thunderstorms occur more often in the summer, due to the fact summer contains two of the most basic elements that cause a thunderstorm: moisture and rapidly rising warm air.

In the UK, no one lives more than 80 miles (130km) from the seashore.

The popsicle was created accidently by an 11-year-old boy in 1905 named Frank Epperson from San Francisco.

He mixed some soda with water, and left it overnight, where it then froze, creating the treat.

The French were the first to introduce the modern idea of picnics, after they opened their royal gardens to the public following the 1789 revolution.

(Disclaimer: some of these may not in fact be true)

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BUZZ 78

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