Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff
Sat 20 Apr
words: REBECCA JOHNSON
Cardiff-based musical fledglings Winter Villains are preparing to fly the nest with the launch of their debut album February. The more cynical among us may wish to assume that the choice of timing for the launch is quietly indicative of the fact that it actually still feels cold enough to be February, though their aptitude for weather-related satire merely scratches the surface of this band’s endless array of talents.
February is a minimalist, genre-subverting composition of subtle keyboard motifs, unobtrusive guitar and ethereal vocal harmonies; switching back and forth between warmer vocal tracks and shorter, haunting instrumental pieces. A rotating cast of string musicians add depth to the track, comprising of contributors to acts such as Lucky Delucci, Evening Chorus and Hail! The Planes, though at no point do the band lose their distinctive sound; a true testament to their lyrical ingenuity.
The band have already received widespread interest and airtime from the likes of Radio 1 via Jen Long’s BBC Introducing show, BBC Radio Wales through Bethan Elfyn and Adam Walton, and Tom Robinson on BBC 6 Music. They celebrate the launch with a show at Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff later this month.
Tickets: £5. Info: 029 2030 4400 / www.chapter.org
