In the enchanting realm where music and poetry intertwine, the forthcoming vinyl release by NuNorthern Soul promises to be a transcendent journey through time, memory, and the boundless reaches of human experience. At the heart of this captivating endeavour lies the revered Welsh poet known simply as Waldo—a diminutive figure whose literary legacy casts a towering shadow over the landscape of Welsh literature. Waldo's mystical prose, deeply rooted in pacifist convictions that once led him to prison, has long conveyed the essence of civilisation to the people of Wales. 'Cofio,' one of his cherished poems from 1936, explores the profound intersections of time, memory, and the ineffable elements that elude the grasp of recollection. This poignant adaptation, a collaboration between the Balearic islands' musical maestro Joan Bibiloni and the eloquent recitations of 'Cofio' by actor Rhys Ifans with additional music and arrangement by JIM aka James Baron [Crazy P] and renowned Catalan Spanish actor Pep Tosar, is a timely homage to Waldo Williams. As we embark on this auditory odyssey, the release, strategically timed to coincide with the Day of the Balearic Islands and Saint David's Day, invites us to reflect on the universal threads that connect us across cultures, landscapes, and the vast expanse of human history. Join us in celebrating this convergence of poetry and music, a harmonious testament to the enduring resonance of Waldo's words and the shared spirit of humanity.
Ban Ban Ton Ton Review
banbantonton.com/2024/01/30/chocolate-milk-brandy-january-2024/
Steve KIW, B.A.O.L. UK - Was already playing the instrumental of Badia Onirica - a sublime piece and then some. No exaggeration to say that this is one of the best NNS releases to date, and that's some mean feat!
Richard Dorfmeister [Kruder & Dorfmeister] - SPECIAL
Luke Una - WOW, love this!
Chris Coco - This is so beautiful. What a gift to the world. Thank you for making this wonder happen.
Phil Mison - Really into this, look forward to hearing it in the sun.
Jason Boardman, UK - Badia Onírica reminds me a little of this under the radar soundtrack with added Tellier style string arrangement, Edge of Sanity by CJ Mirra. Beautifully recorded and arranged overall, both tracks and all versions strong.
Dr Rob, Ban Ban Ton Ton, Japan - I remember when this project was announced, and while it looked great (it is great) it also looked like it was going to be hard to complete given the circumstances we all found ourselves in. Un Adeu is magical.
S / A / M - Cafe Del Mar, Ibiza - What a beautifully captivating selection here....mesmerising, calming and meditative. Muchas gracias!
released March 1, 2024
Cofio by Waldo Williams. Dail Pren. Y Lolfa Cyf.
www.ylolfa.com
English translation by Alan Llwyd
Catalan & Spanish translation by Sally Riera
Badia Onírica & Un Adéu by Joan Bibiloni
Un Adéu arranged by Joan Bibiloni
Badia Onírica additional music and arrangement by James Baron
Badia Onírica mixed by Ric Peet
Cofio Welsh & English recitals by Rhys Ifans
Cofio Catalan & Spanish recitals by Pep Tosar
Mastering by Simon Mills
Artwork & design by Mike Cranston
Sleeve notes by Marc Rowlands & Ifor ap Glyn
Project concept & management by Gareth Potter & Phil Cooper
Thanks to Ifor ap Glyn, Eluned Richards and Hefin Wyn for their help and support, Joan, Jim, Pep & Rhys for their belief and commitment to the cause.