In a music landscape often bogged down by the weight of its own expectations, Ynys’ Dosbarth Nos (Night Class) is a refreshing and exhilarating breeze. This sophomore album from Dylan Hughes, the creative force behind Race Horses and Radio Luxembourg, is a testament to the transformative power of artistic evolution. Following a successful debut that earned a Welsh Music Prize nomination, Dosbarth Nos not only captures the essence of Ynys’ energetic live performances but also charts a compelling new direction for the band.
Recorded live over a mere four days at Mwnci Studios in the serene West Wales countryside, Dosbarth Nos harnesses the unbridled spontaneity and raw energy of a live session. The album’s immediate impact is a direct result of Dylan’s decision to immerse his band in a concentrated recording period, a notable departure from the piecemeal approach of their debut. This decision has infused the album with a vibrant dynamism that speaks volumes about Ynys‘ musical maturity.
Central to Dosbarth Nos is the single “Aros Amdanat Ti” (Waiting For You), a track that reveals Ynys’ knack for crafting irresistible pop hooks and emotionally resonant lyrics. The song’s infectious melody and upbeat tempo draw notable comparisons to the early works of Paul McCartney and Todd Rundgren, marking a deliberate and confident foray into more pop-oriented territory. Dylan’s reflection on the song’s upbeat nature encapsulates his journey from self-doubt to self-assurance, signalling a newfound comfort in letting his music shine brightly.
The album’s lyrical landscape, straddling Welsh and English, provides a rich tapestry of introspection and vitality. Dylan’s early experiments on his hallway piano, combined with the disciplined focus of a scheduled recording session, have yielded an album brimming with intent and clarity. The tracks, conceived in a brief yet intense creative burst, illustrate Dylan’s deliberate shift from quiet introspection to vibrant, full-band arrangements.
Musically, Dosbarth Nos navigates a broad spectrum of sounds, driven by Dylan’s desire to capture the energy of their live performances. The album strikes a balance between harmony-laden pop and the expansiveness of its arrangements, reminiscent of the eccentricity of a band like Sparks while embracing the grandeur of ELO. Contemporary influences also surface, giving the album a modern edge without compromising its nostalgic charm.
Tracks such as “Welcome Back To The Island” and “Gyda Ni” exemplify the album’s range, from contemplative ballad-esque tunes to exuberant feel good anthems. Meanwhile, “Dim Ond Ni” and “Wild Waves” underscore Ynys’ ability to blend introspective lyrics with compelling melodies, creating moments of profound emotional resonance.
Dosbarth Nos is a bold statement of artistic confidence and evolution. Ynys have crafted an album that resonates with the joyful exuberance of their live performances, yet also showcases a matured, reflective approach to songwriting.
Dosbarth Nos is out now on Libertino Records.
