Written in an off-grid cottage during a year- long residency in the Cambrian Mountains, The Gentle Good’s new album Elan is a psychedelic portrait of Cwm Elan (the Elan Valley) in Powys, Wales. Featuring songs in both Welsh and English, Elan explores issues of culture, politics and identity through the history and folklore of the valley, which was flooded in the Victorian era to provide drinking water to the city of Birmingham.
Recorded at Tŷ Drwg Studios, Cardiff with sound engineer Frank Naughton and musician Andy Fung, Elan is the sixth studio album from The Gentle Good. This latest offering sees the award- winning songwriter embrace a wider sound pallet, that does justice to the vast and dramatic landscapes of the Elan Valley. In contrast to the stripped-back acoustic intimacy of its predecessor Galargan, the new record Elan incorporates a full band, complete with layered vocals, electric guitars, vintage synths, flute and French Horn. Adventurous string arrangements by composer Seb Goldfinch sit beside distorted guitars, sparse piano and eerie synthesisers.
A sparkling variety of musical ideas illuminate the album, which includes brand new collaborations with Rajasthani folk pioneers SAZ, indie-folk-pop daredevil Laura J Martin and Radnorshire guitar virtuoso Toby Hay. A unique record that flows like a river through the ever-changing landscape, Elan is a bright new addition to the rich heritage of Welsh psychedelic music.
The new album Elan will be released on May 16th 2025. You can pre-order the album on vinyl and CD now at bit.ly/ElanPreOrder.
The Gentle Good will also be launching the album at Cultvr Lab on May 17th. Join us for a special live performance with a full band, The Mavron Quartet, support from Laura J Martin and 360° visuals. This unique audiovisual experience will bring the sounds and themes of Elan to life, immersing you in its rich storytelling and atmospheric soundscapes. More information and tickets at bit.ly/ElanLive.
Artist’s website: https://thegentlegood.com/
‘To Be In Summer’ – official video:
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