We love it when bands return after long hiatuses. It makes us feel like historians, discovering the past in order to inform the future. In this case, the future (and the present) carries the name of Secret Garden Gathering, a Welsh indie rock outfit originally active between 2010 and 2013. Boasting a busy touring schedule under their nostalgic belt, they have supported the likes of Low Anthem, Jane Weaver, and Wave Pictures, among others. Now, the group returns with their comeback EP, ‘Is-Y-Deri’, a record that appears to be paying homage to their homeland.
Meaning ‘Beneath the Oaks’ in English, ‘Is-Y-Deri’ feels nuanced and complex, with the obvious rock influences accompanied by evocative folk tones and elegant female vocals. Yet, every attempt to block Secret Garden Gathering inside a genre box is vain, as the British creatives explore all options available to them. From the slick indie cut ‘Talking Numb3rs’ to the more reflective ‘(From) The Shire [with Love]’, passing through the roaring, melancholic number ‘You are the Darkness after my Dawn’.
As a bonus point, all tracks are recorded and performed live, giving the EP a naturally wholesome and authentic flair. The spaciousness is likely to appeal to any shoegaze and new-wave lover out there. Overall, it looks like SGG haven’t lost their potential; it’s just transformed into more mature sonic matter. Secret Garden Gathering are Lorna on Vocals, Dave on Guitar, Adam on Guitar, Matthew on Keys, Jay on Drums, and Darren on Bass.
Recommended! Discover ‘Is-Y-Deri’ on Spotify:
