Gruff Rhys has always been known for his bold recording projects, such as creating a concept album based on the life of Welsh explorer John Evans or producing a theatrical adaptation of his 2007 album Candylion. He has even ventured into abandoned recording studios to create one last record. However, his latest solo album, Sadness Sets Me Free, takes a more simplistic approach. In 2022, after finishing a tour in Dunkirk, the Welsh artist and his band quickly traveled to La Frette studios near Paris and completed the album in just three days. This album reflects Rhys’s current goal of capturing spontaneous moments rather than focusing solely on creating catchy pop songs.
La Frette has had many significant moments – Rhys and his band had dinner with the founder, Olivier Bloch-Lainé, a well-known figure in French pop who shared stories about collaborating with Brigitte Fontaine and Jean-Claude Vannier. He also showcased his extensive collection of classic synthesizers. During this time, Rhys absorbed this rich history and created a collection of songs that have a melancholic tone or address difficult topics. These songs document the fruitful collaboration between Rhys and pianist Osian Gwynedd, double bassist Huw V Williams, and drummer Kliph Scurlock, formerly of the Flaming Lips.
You have the opportunity to inquire with Rhys about the latest achievement, his experiences in the Super Furry Animals, operating a large tank, teaming up with National Theatre Wales, composing an opera, creating songs for a recent stage adaptation of an Oliver Jeffers tale, updates on his favorite Bangor FC team, working with De La Soul and Gorillaz, promoting fellow Welsh artist Cate Le Bon, or any other topic you desire as he participates in the Guardian’s reader interview next week. Submit your inquiries in the comments section by 10am on Tuesday, January 9th.
Source: theguardian.com
