We are thrilled to announce the first official TIWN TOP TEN, as voted by the TIWN Family and the general public. Chosen were 10 incredible albums that were released between October 2022 and November 2023. We then gave the task of choosing the Number 1 to their audience. We pride ourselves on promoting all genres of Welsh music, both Welsh-speaking and non-Welsh-speaking,

Congratulations to the winners:
HOLY COVES ‘Druids and Bards’ - Album of the Year 2023

Nancy Ackroyd - Light The Lamps

A complete package that to single out certain tracks would be like trying to pick a favourite limb. Truly expert musicianship of Nancy Ackroyd and her band, with a special nod to Iolo Whelan and Beth Whelan.

Holy Coves - Druids And Bards

The Welsh indie psych-rock band from Holy Island, Anglesey, lead by singer/songwriter Scott Marsden are back. Druids and Bards follow Ynys Mon and Peruvian Mistake after a nearly 10-year hiatus, brought on in part by the death of his best friend and manager, as well as his struggles with addiction and subsequent recovery. Marsden assembled a new group of esteemed musicians; John Lawrence on guitar, Owain Ginsberg on guitar & synths, Jason Hughes on bass and Spike T Smith on drums.

Marsden wrote and sang all songs, and co-produced the album with Lawrence, who also engineered it. Mixing and mastering was done by Texas-based music producer Erik Wofford. Hallmarks of Holy Coves’ dynamic sound are their striking melodies, powerful, driving rhythms, lush, cinematic synths, exquisitely layered guitars, and Marsden’s beautiful and sensuous vocals.

Druids and Bards is a superb, flawlessly crafted album, as close to perfect as any we have heard this year.

Stream/Download or Purchase ‘Druids And Bards’ now!

Godsticks - This Is What A Winner Looks Like

The album is their most collaborative effort to date, incorporating electronic elements alongside their trademark metallic edge. An evolution that furthers the band's identity in a contemporary and refreshing fashion.

Trampolene - Rules of Love & War

Album number four from prolific South Wales rockers, Trampolene, is right on the money. It’s certainly a step up from the previous offerings, with boundless energy and excellently crafted songs.

Tapestri - Tell Me World

The band is made up of established bi-lingual artists, Lowri Evans and Sarah Zyborska. Best characterised as Wales’ answer to First Aid Kit. We are saddened that Tapestri’s brilliant debut album will also be their last.

Mr Phormula - A.W.D.L

A prolific voice that has released stand-out albums for over a decade. Mr Phormula delivers a piece of work that combines his influences, from grime, to house to techno while simultaneously rapping in both Welsh and English.

Skindred - Smile

After an exciting battle for number 1, Smile got the Newport band’s first UK number 2. An album that gives long-time Skindred fans everything they want, but also opens the doors for a new generation of fans. An album that has been delivered with love, energy and passion.

Mal Pope - Rocket Boy

Mal Pope’s 2023 album ‘Rocket Boy’ is here after a long 50-year wait. Having signed to Elton John’s record label in 1973, the songs were put on ice when Mal’s voice broke in the summer of ‘74. Finally we get to hear the finished masterpiece.

Those Damn Crows - Inhale/Exhale

Inhale / Exhale is an album that elevates their signature hard-hitting rock to dizzying heights. It whips up a storm of atmospheric hard rock. Those Damn Crows have the potential to project themselves many leagues above where they are now.

Himalayas - From Hell To Here

From Hell To Here is a delicious debut album with stunning production. Hints of the band's musical influences like Arctic Monkeys, Royal Blood and Muse filter throughout, but with a firm stamp of originality to go with it.