Out of the fields and under several roofs, the last quarter of 2024 holds some last hurrahs for the year’s festival calendar. Billy Edwards tackles one of these: Llais in Cardiff’s Wales Millennium Centre, with his five top recommended acts to check out.
Squid + Geordie Greep
Squid are ideal for Llais attendants that enjoy the last half-century of Britain’s progressive music. Hailing from Brighton, their ‘anxiety rock’ features cascading, restless melodies. They’ll be joined by Geordie Greep, flying solo after the shock break-up of Black Midi.
Thurs 10 Oct. Tickets: £23. Info: here
Joan As Police Woman
Making a rare UK appearance, the American alt-rock singer-songwriter returns to perform her new album, Lemons, Limes And Orchids. With a soulful, lilting voice, she first cut her teeth on classical performance before breaking into the New York underground scene.
Fri 11 Oct. Tickets: £23. Info: here
Joe Boyd
An afternoon talk with the legendary record producer, best known for his folk-rock work with the likes of Nick Drake and Fairport Convention. Discussing new book And The Roots Of Rhythm Remain, he’ll recount his role in the rise of ‘world music’.
Sat 12 Oct. Tickets: FREE. Info: here
Sweet Honey In The Rock
An all-woman, African-American a cappella ensemble that was formed in 1973 with a mission still to empower audiences of all backgrounds through ‘message music’. Sometimes fun and theatrical, other times considered and socially conscious, this group thrives through creative improvisation.
Sat 12 Oct. Tickets: £25. Info: here
Lleuwen: Tafod Arian
A unique meld of guitar and electronic accompaniment that seeks to reawaken ancient Welsh music. Lleuwen Steffan has uncovered a range of hymns from St Fagans’ Museum Sound archives as well as 50 Welsh chapels, many of which never before published.
Sun 13 Oct. Tickets: £12.50. Info: here
Llais, Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay, Tue 8-Sun 13 Oct.
Info: wmc.org.uk/llais
words BILLY EDWARDS