Bethan Nia - Ffiniau
It sounds like a modern fairy tale. Struggling Welsh harpist Bethan Nia found her seat on the train taken by none other than Michael Eavis. A conversation between the two resulted in a set at the Glastonbury festival leading to an appearance on stage with The Levellers. Having subsequently won the Danny Kyle Award at Celtic Connections, nothing musically was heard from Nia for a while as she started a family but now comes this self-released debut album.
Nia’s voice and harp gliding over delicate beats and strings along with the occasional drone, found sound or field recording. Ffiniau is a gentle, haunting but somehow joyous take on the Welsh folk tradition. Direct comparisons are beyond my experience but, in mood if not in style, this recalls Fleet Foxes’ Sun Giant EP, Haiku Salut and Norwich’s very own Abi Blake/Hydra Lerna.
In summary, a lovely album that is well worth a listen.
7.5/10
