On a dark Thursday evening, as the rain pours onto the streets of Cardiff, Boyo floods Clwb Ifor Bach with outstanding talent for the launch of his In A Minute, Now EP. This MC/producer from the south Wales Valleys has an immediately detectable presence, command over the audience, a constant stream of witty fan interaction and a varied and well-constructed setlist – all bound together with charming soundbites of Welsh culture.
The venue is filled from wall to wall with fans sharing a common adoration for an artist – real name Alex Wiltshire, formerly the vocalist in post-hardcore band The Guns – who appears to know his creative identity through and through. Aside from the impressive flow that elevates his clever lyrics and well-produced tracks, Boyo has powerful vocals, as showcased in Situation.
In contrast to the often straight-up venomous lyrics, that are possibly not suited to the easily offended, Wiltshire exudes gratitude and love for fans and fellow performers alike – taking a moment to give thanks to everyone who made the effort to show up and praising Benny Flowz, Baddathanwho and live debutant Ark, all of whom performed earlier in the evening. We get a reminder to buy Boyo merch and support the release of his EP, too.
The resulting atmosphere is exhilarating, the audience’s energy especially noticeable during the crowdpleasing Raw Pap and his spin on Megan Thee Stallion’s Savage. Boyo is a shining representation of the Welsh music scene: his strength of character and gift for storytelling the captivating key that holds the formula to a growing profile. The audience leave satisfied, if visibly eager for more, with Tom Jones’ Delilah as exit music.
Boyo, Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff, Thurs 14 Mar
words and photos JOSEPH ELIJAH
