Holy Coves are an indie rock band based on Holy Island, Wales. They’ve already received a ton of support from BBC Radio Wales, and BBC Radio London and can count Huw Stephens and Adam Walton among their fans. Despite all that, they are new to us, and have just hit my radar thanks to their new album Druids And Bards.
By Graeme Smith
Feature photo by Dai Eastwood
The guys created the album with the help of Texan producer Erik Wofford (of Explosions In the Sky fame). The album has a suitably expansive sound, where traditional indie rock mingles alongside more soaring post-rock influences. If you grew with British rock of the ’90s and ’00s, you’ll find an instant affection for Druids And Bards, right from its lively, hedonistic opener Away We Go.
It’s an album of emotional high and lows. The Hurt Within feels more introspective. There is a slow and contemplative feel to it that carries through to track three Grey. The latter has a more upbeat tempo, though, and is more outward-looking. Small and Nothing shrugs off the theme of insecurity that’s been growing through the last two tracks, rounding off the early part of the album in a powerful fashion. It’s a highlight.
Another Day marks the album’s mid-point. It takes an unexpected deviation into psych, with an acoustic rhythm and licks of echoing guitar riffs. A bass groove keeps things grounded during a wall-of-noise chorus and head-swimming lyrics. It’s another highlight.
Desert Storm is a visceral moment that brings elements of folk and blues with it. Welcome to the Real World is a bright point, though tempered with a cynical undercurrent. Until I Fall is a wonderfully textured offering that speaks of inner turmoil before Taste The Wine rounds off the album. It’s a track that brings all the elements of the Holy Coves sounds together, mixing acoustic folk with swaggering indie rock and emotive lyrics.
Druids And Bards is such an accomplished album. It’s not surprising with the pedigree of musicians involved but singer songwriter Scott Marsden brings something untrainable to it too. There’s heart and vulnerability to his lyrics and delivery that makes his music utterly compelling. If you’re into the British rock scene, this album is a must-listen. You can check it out below.