Highlight of the Week

Battle of the Bands

Following months of preparation, Battle of the Bands took place this week.

Teilo’s video this year features some great group scenes in alleyways and cars, with Claudia H keeping everything together.  Euddgowy’s video was a masterpiece of moodiness using seagulls, dark skies and winter light to great effect. Dyfrig had filmed a good band scene in the round, exploiting the space behing the RDS, which is underutilised.  The judge was greatly impressed by their use of virtual reality technology.

The Teilo performance was very strong.  Their first song was Monkey Wrench by the Foo Fighters, and this was followed by A certain romance by the Kooks.  The judge, Steve Rajam of the BBC, was hugely impressed by the theatrical transition they produced following a great drum solo from James K, and spoke highly of the chemistry between the band members.  Claudia H was great on vocals, Ben P was relaxed and natural as ever on guitar, Tom P, Tom B and Tarkan U were likewise very strong on guitar, and all these guitars gave a strong “wash” to the performance.

Euddogwy performed Feeling good  by Muse and Run  by the Foo Fighters.  Catreya M had really worked on her vocals, which soared above the wall of sound.  Younger sister Neryse produced some accomplished bass playing, and Oli P and Gabriel S were strong guitar players.  We particularly appreciated Gabriel’s hat! Charlie H’s keyboards were a strong addition and gave an extra depth to the sound. Behind it all sat the masterful Catrina I on drums: it is rare to find an all-girl rhythm section!

Dyfrig closed the night with the Arctic Monkies’ Arabella, which they followed up with a real rock classic: Fleetwood Mac’s The Chain.   Catherine W was relaxed on bass, Sam H’s super lead rang out strong, as did Head of House Ben M’s guitar!  This was sharp music played with real panache.  Charlotte B gave an excellent performance of vocals, and was supplemented on the first song by some fine harmonising from Georgia K.  This was Georgia’s first foray into rock singing, and she really lifted the first song before going on to take part of the lead in the second.

Overall, Teilo came out as winners, with Euddogwy in second and Dyfrig in third.