Gruff Rhys has always been known for taking on ambitious recording projects, such as creating a concept album about Welsh explorer John Evans or producing a theater show to accompany his 2007 album Candylion. He has even gone as far as breaking into a condemned recording studio to create an album in its final days. However, his latest solo album, Sadness Sets Me Free, takes a more stripped-down approach. After finishing a tour in Dunkirk in 2022, the Welsh musician and his band quickly traveled to La Frette studios near Paris and recorded the entire album in just three days. This album reflects Rhys’s current goal of capturing raw moments rather than solely focusing on creating catchy pop songs.
The Frette was witness to many memorable moments – Rhys and his band shared a meal with the founder, Olivier Bloch-Lainé, a well-known figure in French pop music. He spoke of his experiences working with Brigitte Fontaine and Jean-Claude Vannier, and showed them his extensive collection of vintage synthesizers. This was a productive time for Rhys, who absorbed this rich history and created a series of songs that “evoke feelings of melancholy or…address difficult topics.” These songs also showcase the dynamic collaboration between Rhys, pianist Osian Gwynedd, double bassist Huw V Williams, and drummer Kliph Scurlock (formerly of the Flaming Lips).
Feel free to inquire with Rhys about the latest achievement, his experience with the Super Furry Animals, operating a large tank, teaming up with National Theatre Wales, composing an opera, creating music for a recent stage adaptation of an Oliver Jeffers tale, updates on his favorite Bangor FC team, collaborating with De La Soul and Gorillaz, promoting fellow Welsh musician Cate Le Bon, or anything else you’re curious about. Rhys will be participating in a reader interview with The Guardian next week. Share your questions in the comments section by 10am on Tuesday, January 9th.
Source: theguardian.com
