Gwyl Gardd Goll Festival 2008

The beautiful grounds of Glynllifon Park, near Caernarfon, came alive with the sounds of Wales as the Gwyl Gardd Goll Festival with an eclectic lineup of homegrown talent.

Headliner Spotlight: Euros Childs

Topping the bill was none other than Euros Childs, the former frontman of cult band Gorky’s Zygotic Mynci. Known for his distinctive blend of whimsical folk and pop melodies, Euros delivered a captivating performance that perfectly encapsulated the spirit of Welsh indie music.

A Diverse Lineup of Welsh Talent

The festival showcased a vibrant mix of artists and bands, including:

• Derwyddon Dr Gonzo, who energized the crowd with their lively ska-infused rock.

• Folk singer-songwriter Gwyneth Glyn, whose heartfelt melodies resonated deeply with the audience.

• Indie-rockers Y Rei, led by Aron Elias, adding a fresh alternative edge.

• Rock-pop fusion from Yucatan, providing catchy and dynamic tunes.

• Experimental noise rock from Denbigh’s Johnny Horizontal (pic below), offering a bold soundscape.

• The mellow indie pop stylings of Sweet Baboo (Stephen Black), adding a laid-back vibe to the day.

• The enchanting harp and vocals of Georgia Ruth Williams, opening the festival with serene beauty.

• Welsh rock-pop group Yr Ods, rounding out the rich sonic palette.

More Than Just Music

Beyond the performances, festival-goers enjoyed a full cultural experience with local food stalls, including Blas ar Fwyd, offering delicious Welsh fare. Organized by the Cymdeithas yr Iaith Gymraeg (Welsh Language Society), the festival was as much a celebration of Welsh culture and language as it was of music.

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The Gwyl Gardd Goll Festival of 2008 remains a cherished moment in the Welsh music calendar, blending diverse sounds, cultural pride, and community spirit amidst the stunning backdrop of Glynllifon Park.

If you’ve got memories, photos, or stories from the festival, I’d love to hear them!

Speaker's Corner closes

Stuntface playing one of many great nights at the venue

Speaker’s Corner – the venue at top of Penrhyn Road, Colwyn Bay opened in 2006 and hosts weekly (sometimes more) gigs and provides a great hang out for the town’s scenesters. 

It's on the premises of an old shoe shop, and what is essentially a juice bar, has bizarrely become a regular fixture on the North Wales coast gig circuit... until it now, as it's closed.

Matt from Global Parasite today said; 'This is a massive loss to not only Colwyn Bay but North Wales as a whole. This is no secret and we feel sorry for the manager, staff, bands and promoters who spent so much time and effort making what became a literal "cultural epicentre" of North Wales, but, the power was cut due to the owners doing something as simple as not paying the electric. The staff lost their jobs, bands lost somewhere to play, artists lost somewhere to put the work, people lost somewhere to hang out. Fucking shit. We don't care if it isn't our place to say anything. Because we are. I'm sure everyone agrees, this is a great loss.'

[Footnote: - Gog operations were moved to the Pier in Colwyn Bay, but didn't really continue the popularity of Speakers Corner - the venue Reopened spring 2009, and was later run by Holly Kift and Jase Dicken. Rumour has it Paul Weller played a few songs at an open mic night there.]