North Wales rockers Alffa are back with a vengeance after a near five-year hiatus, following up their electrifying Welsh anthem ‘Pwythau’ with the new single ‘Breathe Free’. Their highly anticipated sophomore album, a follow-up to their explosive 2019 debut ‘Rhyddid O’r Cysgodion Gwenwynig’ (Freedom From The Poisonous Shadows), is set for release this November.
Blending the raw energy of punk with the crushing weight of hard rock, the Llanrug duo continue to forge the distinctive sound that established their mind-blowing debut. Their latest offering, ‘Breathe Free’, is a defiant departure from the genre’s penchant for darkness, instead illuminating a path towards self-acceptance and empowerment. Fueled by their signature blend of thunderous drums, soaring melodies, and raw emotion, Alffa are solidifying their status as a formidable force in the alternative scene.
“This song invites you on a journey of self-discovery, reminding us all that embracing and celebrating our true selves is the key to true freedom,” Alffa noted. “‘Breathe Free’ is not just a song for us; it’s a call to action to break free from internal struggles and discover the power within.” Inspired by their own experiences, the band hopes to create a space for listeners to connect with their own vulnerabilities and find strength in unity.
As we anticipate the release of their bilingual sophomore album this November, we sat down with Alffa’s guitarist/vocalist Dion Wyn Jones and drummer Sion Eifion Land to explore the inspirations behind their sound and the evolution of their artistry.
What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
The first instruments we fell in love with were the guitar and drums, a perfect duo that became the heartbeat of our sound. The guitar drew us in with its raw, electrifying energy—every riff and chord felt like a surge of power, driving the music forward. Meanwhile, the drums captivated us with their primal, rhythmic force, laying down a thunderous foundation that made everything feel alive. Together, the guitar and drums created a dynamic interplay that we couldn’t resist, embodying the spirit of rock in its purest form. That synergy is what hooked us and keeps us playing to this day.
What was the first band or artist you enjoyed when you were younger?
The first bands we both connected with when we were younger were Pendulum, Foo Fighters, and The Black Keys. Pendulum’s mix of electronic energy with rock undertones inspired us with its relentless drive and intensity. Foo Fighters brought this raw, anthemic power that spoke to us, making every riff and lyric feel larger than life. Then there was The Black Keys, whose gritty, blues-infused sound had a simplicity and soulfulness that we couldn’t resist. These bands played a big part in shaping our musical journey as a duo, each influencing the way we approach our own sound.
What was the first album you remember owning?
The first album we both remember owning and truly enjoying was Nevermind by Nirvana. It was a game-changer for us. The raw energy, angst, and unapologetic sound of that record resonated with us immediately. Every track felt like a revelation, and it became the soundtrack to so many of our early experiences with music. Nevermind didn’t just shape our tastes—it influenced the way we think about creating music as a duo, reminding us of the power of simplicity and emotion in every note.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
The one song we both wish we could have written is “Ghost Town” by The Specials. It’s a track that perfectly captures a mood and tells a story, all while having this irresistible groove that makes you want to dance.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
Lately, we’ve found ourselves listening a lot to a French band called W!ZARD. They played right before us at Focus Wales, and we were instantly hooked by their intense energy and unique sound. Their music blends raw emotion with intricate, heavy riffs, creating something really fresh and exciting. It’s been inspiring to see how they push the boundaries of their genre, and we’ve been spinning their tracks non-stop ever since.
If there was any moment in your career you could relive, what would it be?
If we could relive any moment in our career, it would definitely be the time we played at Morborock in Morbegno, Italy. The atmosphere was electric, and the crowd’s energy was something we’ll never forget. Playing in such a beautiful location, surrounded by the stunning Italian landscape, made the experience even more memorable. The connection we felt with the audience that night was truly special, and it’s a moment we’d love to experience all over again.
Which artist would you most love to share a stage with?
It’s hard to narrow it down to just one, but if we could share a stage with anyone, it would have to be a mix of Queens of the Stone Age, Death From Above 1979, and a few others. Each of these bands has had a huge influence on our sound, and their energy on stage is something we’ve always admired. Playing alongside them would be a dream come true, blending our styles with theirs and creating a night of unforgettable music.
And is there an artist you would love to collaborate with as well?
That’s a tough one, but if we had to choose, Dion would love to collaborate with Alison Mosshart from The Kills. Her gritty, raw vocal style and intense stage presence have always been a huge inspiration. The idea of blending our guitar-driven sound with her edgy, dynamic voice is really exciting.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
The most rewarding part of being a musician, especially in a duo with my best friend, is the unique synergy and deep connection we share as we create music together. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about blending our individual talents and passions into a cohesive performance. Beyond that, the true reward comes from the positive impact we can have on our audience. Seeing people moved or uplifted by our music, and knowing that we’re sharing something meaningful with them, makes every moment on stage incredibly gratifying.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
The best piece of advice I’ve received as a musician is to treat everyone with respect and kindness on the way up, because you never know who might be there to support you on the way down. This wisdom has reminded me to build genuine relationships and maintain humility, understanding that the music industry is full of unexpected turns and the people you encounter can play a significant role in your journey.
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‘Breathe Free’ is available across all streaming platforms NOW
Nameless Friends, a Canadian force of queer infused, politically charged energy, are storming the UK with their “Cross The Pond” Tour and a brand new single, “Mezzanine,”. Described as modern glam, prog punk, metal-adjacent,, Nameless Friends are your new favourite band.
This isn’t your average band. Nameless Friends ditch the rockstar facade for a numerical system – a reflection of their tight-knit, egalitarian spirit. At the core, you’ve got Number One (think searing vocals and rhythm guitar), Number Three (shredding lead guitar and killer backing vocals), Number Five (laying down the thunderous bass), and Number Seven (the powerhouse on drums). But their extended family includes Number Four (a retired drum legend rocking the music videos), Number Six (the keyboardist adding magic to the “Blasphemy” era), and Number Two (the versatile backup bassist and live sound engineer aiming for a permanent promotion).
“Mezzanine” explodes from the speakers like a theatrical hard-rock bomb, mocking the twisted world of fame through a campy operatic lens. The song kicks off with a riff that chills you to the bone before crashing into an anthemic, operatic climax worthy of a stadium singalong.
But “Mezzanine” is just the beginning. The “Blasphemy” deluxe edition promises a treasure trove of sonic delights for devoted Nameless Friends fans. Expect electrifying live renditions of the album’s tracks, rumoured to surpass even the studio versions. Deep cuts like “7 Years of Blood” and “Sympathy for Lilith” get the remix treatment, adding a whole new dimension to the Nameless Friends experience.
This deluxe edition is a love letter to the band’s fan base, a continuation of the protest against social injustices that was a core theme of the original “Blasphemy” album. It’s a chance to experience the music in a whole new way, a testament to the band’s commitment to pushing boundaries and defying expectations.
To celebrate the release, we sat down to chat with the band about their backgrounds and inspirations behind this mesmerising project. Don’t miss your chance to see them LIVE on the final leg of their UK tour happening NOW! (Catch dates & tickets down below)
What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
3: “A lid on a giant water cooler in my childhood home that apparently I liked to drum on.”
5: “I wanted to play drums, but there was another kid who played drums that was a better drummer than me, and I wanted to be in the band no matter what, so I picked bass.”
7: “I like my instrument, can I just say that?”
1: “We’re all picking drums, sure, that.”
What was the first band or artist you enjoyed when you were younger?
Captain Beefheart and The BeeGees.
What was the first album you remember owning?
1: “A Steppenwolf Greatest Hits album that I stole from my dad. And real Canadians will know, Ryan Malcolm’s first post-Canadian Idol solo record.”
7: “Plastic Beach by Gorrillaz.”
5: “A friend pirated a copy of Green Day’s American Idiot and gave it to me.”
3: “Oo I also coveted American Idiot, a friend across the street had a copy and it was niiiiiicely made.”
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
Vienna by Billy Joel, Champagne by July Talk, Science Fiction by The Arctic Monkeys, and Close to the Edge by Yes.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
Chappell Roan, El Ten Eleven, Wolves of Glendale, Dijon, Orville Peck, and Fatoumata Diawara.
If there was any moment in your career you could relive, what would it be?
1: “The first time my dad found out we were playing at The Horseshoe Tavern in Toronto was pretty cute. He’s a Kingston, Tragically Hip-obsessed man and was really excited for us. It’s not the biggest, but it was precious.”
7: “Drunkenly escorting a toad off the road at 2am in Scotland so we didn’t run it over.”
3: “Oh I was gonna say when we kicked [redacted] out of the band.”
Which artist would you most love to share a stage with?
Boygenius, Pup, and Dave Grohl exclusively so Number Seven can fistbump him before a high school buddy can.
And is there an artist you would love to collaborate with as well?
St. Vincent and still Boygenius.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
1: “When our silly, little rage-filled songs make people feel seen and loved and brave and stuff.”
3: “Playing with fancy equipment. And getting to contribute to allyship and activism and whatnot.”
5: “I just like being onstage.”
7: “Drugs!”
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
1: “If you think you hate everyone, eat. If you think everyone hates you, sleep. If you think you hate yourself, shower.”
3: “Pass.”
5: “Don’t say no to anything.”
7: “Be crime, do gays.”
