Chris Walker – artist from Bangor area (c1983), had track Parting Of Ways featured on local comp tape ‘Just When You Thought We Were Dead’
Karl Wallinger – Prestatyn born main man of World Party (19.10.57 – 10.03.24), previously of The Waterboys. He began investigating recorded sound on the rudimentary level of tinkering with a tape-recorder and practice amp, and cutting his performing teeth as keyboardist with Pax. Formed Quasimodo (1977) with members who went on to form The Alarm. Moved to London the same year, playing in various punk bands such as The Invisible Body and working for the publishers ATV/Northern Songs before joining funk band Out. In 1983, he met Mike Scott and Anthony Thistlewhite, and the 3 became the nucleus of The Waterboys. By 1986 he had gone it alone and released World Party’s debut LP, by 1993 the project, which is basically a one man band, produced the album ‘Bang!’ and was only kept off the No.1 spot in the UK by R.E.M. Also penned the No.1 hit She’s The One, covered by Robbie Williams.
Walloping Donkeys – Mold band 1999 onwards, feat; Andy Williams (drms) (ex Baby Milk Plant), Paul Adams (bass), Mike Foulkes (gtr) – perform covers in a Ramones style. Spent most Christmases supporting Hot Sausage at Mold Savoy, other gigs included an invitation to play Molds Bryn Coch school.
Wall Street – Colwyn Bay band feat; Richie Pond (drms,voc), Frank Flynn (gtr) and Chris White (bass) as 3 piece before Steve Jones (ex Harvest Moon, Heroes on A Beach, Picture House) joined and changed their name to Burn. Richie left and Chris Harris joined and then name changed to Uncle Fester.
Adam Walton – BBC Radio Wales DJ, producer and ex Daily Post columnist (b.May71). Member of now defunct Mold based based bands Metroland, The Immediate also L’pool based Daisychain. Got the job with Radio Wales by telling them they were shit. Presented the show Revolution, after a few changes now presents Musical Mystery Tour on Sunday nights 10-1am, promoting new music by artists based in Wales. Show format changed to Saturday nights under the banner ‘BBC Introducing’. Also DJ’d on Friday nights at Telford’s Warehouse, Chester. The Immediate reformed in 2016. Adam also released 7″ lathe cut solo single When I Hear Dylan (Jan20), followed by ‘Mary Sees UFO’s EP’ (Apr21 re-released Apr22), and album ‘Afal’ (Apr22). Sporadically releases material, eg: the song On a Hillside (With the Fireflies) (15.06.25) (with Rachel Williams of Peaness on drums) (session list) (2003 interview) (spotify)
Walton’s Records – BBC Radio Wales pop quiz series (broadcast May/Jun05), hosted by Adam Walton, with team captains Andrea (Darling Buds), Hue Williams (Pooh Sticks). Recorded in various pubs across Wales! The show was essentially a detour from Adam’s usual new music programming, offering a specific, competitive format featuring established names in Welsh music.
Waltz – indie-rock band from Wrexham (May13 – 2020), feat; Benjamin Harvey (voc), Ben Jones (gtr), Tim Hardie (gtr), Kevin Davies (bass), Joshua Davies (drms). Released debut self-titled EP (19.05.13), recorded live at Giant Wafer Studio then a single Little Victim (31.10.13), then track Feel The Ride (16.09.14). (bandcamp)
Wandering Quatrains – Chester (?) band of late 80s, feat; Andie Rathbone (drms) (later Mansun), Neil Senior (voc) (ex Precautions, Lilac Trumpets – see L’pool section). More info req’d
Wankers – Bangor band (c1974), feat; Scott Saunders (later of Third Spain). Recordings said to exist. More info req’d
Wank Williams – Dave Macher‘s short lived musical project (1987), tracks incl; Dekin/Belchin/Fartin and Old Shit.
Wanted – Rock band from Bangor, feat; Colin (gtr), Billy Coxon (drms) Dave ‘Bandwidth’ Jones (voc), Max Hodges (gtr) (Dirty Work, see Gerry Beasley and Ocean Music Scene), and Anton Hobbs (bass). Anton, Dave and Colin went on to form Loose Fish. Anton now lives near Aylesbury, and was writing new material with Max for a concept album project under the working title “The Mordecai Project”. Max was spotted gigging in Oxford (2016) with 13Burning.
Wanton Thought – Punk band from Mold (c1991). Feat; Mike Foulkes (gtr,voc), Dave Davies (bass), Craig Williams (drms) (ex Blasphemy Squad, later in Rope). Released 7″ EP ‘Mustard Mit’ (on Boss Tuneage 1991) and a CD compilation ‘Wanton Thought’ (same label ’91). (youtube)
Warlockhunt – minimal doom-sludge-industrial project by Chester based Lorraine Peaker (bass,voc) and Mark Watson-Jones (bass) of Conwy. Released single Sleep / Heal (16.08.21 on Pyrrhic Defeat). Added Chris Williams (drms) (ex Bonzai Massacre, Morvo, Middle Name God) to the line-up Dec21, who in turn was replaced by Toby (19.01.26). Released ‘Call Of Sorrow EP’ (18.04.22 Pyrrhic Defeat) and an album ‘Prey’ (Nov25, again on Pyrrhic Defeat). Mark also plays in Emissaries Of Syn and runs Pyrrhic Defeat – see his profile) (bandcamp)
Warm Data – Bangor electronica label (formed Oct08).
The Washington – nightclub, pub and occasional venue, a well-known nightspot in Llandudno for many years. Rebuilt in 1925, the building eventually became widely known as a popular nightclub from the sixties to its abrupt closure in May 2012 (leading to the loss of over 20 jobs). Often referred to as The Washington Nights or simply “The Wash.” In Apr14 application was submitted to Conwy County Borough Council to carry out a series of alterations to develop the site as a restaurant and bar. It re-opened in May 2017 as Dylan’s Llandudno restaurant, the third branch of the successful chain.
Wasp Records – record shop in Upper Bangor in late 60s / early 70s (an advert mentions it trading in 1964). It advertised a selection of both English and Welsh records, as well as guitars.
Waste – Amlwch band (formed 2016), feat; Marcus Peachey (ex Valleum, Seagull Kinevil), Dale Roberts, Graham Ede.
Waterburn – (2001-2003) Flint based covers/orig band formed 2001 at Flint High, feat; Josh Smith (gtr) (ex-Timmy), Jamie (bass), Paul (gtr), and Anna (drms) (ex Feedbak, Timmy). Ex-members inc Gareth Bagshaw (sometimes Breakout, Nidd and Friends).
Waterleaf – Nantglyn band (c1995), feat; Dusty (voc,gtr), Dazey (gtr), Llion (bass), Will (drms) released 5track demo ‘Lot of Dead Folk’ feat tracks Commercial Shite, Sticky Tape, Rubber Ducky, Disarm
Mark Watson-Jones – bass player from Penmaenmawr (17.05.71 in Hyde) with Blacklisted, GFFS, NWWA, Thin Din, Hecate Enthroned, Unfits, God’s Holy Trousers, Merciless Savage, Emissaries Of Syn, Warlockhunt. Became tour manager for Skinflick before joining them as bassist (Mar05) and prolific reviewer for link2wales. Also had side project Finite Death, and was a co-presenter of Broken Jukebox radio show on TudnoFM. Occasionally played bass for Spam Javelin during 2016-17 and runs Pyrrhic Defeat Records
Ron Watt – (1963 – Apr09) vocalist in late 70s Llandudno band Last Rights. Sadly died after a long illness. Former band mate Sully remembers, ‘We did many gigs around North Wales including a memorable one at Colwyn Bay pier supporting the infamous Ginger Baker. Ronnie was outstanding as a front man and would have given Johnny Rotten a run for his money any day. He later went on to perfecting covers by the likes of Pink Floyd,it was really moving at his funeral service when they played 3 tracks by Floyd including Comfortably Numb. Ronnie will be sadly missed by all his friends and family. God bless you mate.’
Wâw Ffactor– Side project for R-bennig label boss Johnny-R, that allowed him to cover everything from experimental techno to folk. Lead vocals are handled by Rachel Carpenter. Rels all appear on R-bennig; ‘Libido’– (Un toffo ar ôl mics) + Interview (flexi disc, R-Ben Cnec Fflecs 001), ‘Ysgafnach na Dwr’ (7″ EP, R-Ben027), ‘Libido’ (cass, R-Ben 028LP), ‘Deheuwynt EP’ (CD, R-Ben 029CD), ‘Swynedig’ (Spellbound) (CD single, R-Ben 034CD).
The Wayriders – Ruthin / Chester band, formed May99, feat; Andy Morgan (voc,gtr) (also Scams), Leila (voc,trmbn), Ben (gtr), Paul Bunker (bass), Sean Howe (drms) (also Random Hand), Ella (trmpt), Ellie (trmpt), Hugh Jones (sax) (also Eckoclick). Appeared on The Next Big Thing on BBC 1 (Mar02). Sounds Like Summer Radio One (Jun02). In 2004 they posed as The Poppyfields on behalf of The Alarm as stunt-doubles, lip-synching the hit single 45rpm. Released 3 albums on their own Rough Edge label, ‘Ride The Way’ (2001), ‘Pirate Radio’ (2002) and ‘The Wayriders’ (2004). Andy, Paul and Sean formed Out From Animals (c2006). (youtube)
(We Are) 0151 – Covers band 2005, feat; Mogga (bass) (ex Dizzy Mama, Think Lizzy), Barry ?? (gtr), PJ Williams (gtr) (ex Perfect 10, Hand Relief, Bastard Squad) and a host of revolving drummers.
We Are Animal – Llanberis indie-band (c2010), feat; Owain Ginsberg (voc,gtr) (ex Gogz, Heights, Get Out Clause, Hippies vs Ghosts), Cynyr Hamer, Dion Hamer, Sion Edwards, Liam Simpson. Released demo LP ‘Idolise’ (late 2010), which was picked up up in Japan by Art Union Recs. Released Tacla EP (2011). Released single Royal Wolf (Just So Recs 28.01.13) to coincide with UK/Euro tour with Joy Formidable, followed by download only single Capoeira (Nov16). By summer13 they were joined on drms by Dave Morait (ex Gallops, Orient Machine/Gobow, Nemonix).
We Are Dancers – St Asaph / Denbigh based project (c2010) by ex members of Johnny Horizontal (maybe) (website)
We Buy Bombs – Colwyn Bay electro-punk band (formed 2008), feat; Rhys Whiskers (voc,keys,gtr) and Rich (drms,gtr). Made live debut Jul09 (website)
Weetabix Express – Bangor band of late 70s, feat; Brenda Prescott (voc), Sheila Macartney, Rob Parry (gtr), Jon Lovering (gtr), Paul Stroud (bass), Ann Williams (keys), Roy Smith (congas), Jeff Taylor (sax). Rob left to join Broken Arrow and Owen Hughes (ex Dick, Dick and The Dicks) joined and they became Hot Water
Weiran Bigog – Bethesda based outfit (pre-1992), early incarnation of Maffia Mr Huws. Played Padarn Roc Festival in 1980 and pissed Dewi Gwyn off because they appeared after his band Bismyth who were more established than Weiran Bigog on the bill due to some organisational mix up!! Members: Guto Orwig (gtr), Deiniol Morris (bass), Gwyn Jones (drms) Sion Jones (voc,gtr). Formed in 1976 while the members were still pupils at Ysgol Dyffryn Ogwen school, Bethesda. They played around 5 gigs before changing name to Maffia. Guto Orwig was replaced by Hefin Hughes, who took over the vocal duties from Sion. Highlights were Padarn Roc 1980 and being support act to Maggs and Jîp at two school gigs at Ysgol Dyffryn Ogwen. Not to forget their breakthrough onto the Welsh language scene after a successful performance at Sesiwn Sgrech at the Swansea National Eisteddfod 1981(?). Songs were 2 minute punk/rock songs similar – but not half as good – as the Ruts meets early Police. Sion, Gwyn and Hefin all went on to play for Anhrefn at different times!
Welsh Bands Weekly – bilingual publication (began Apr97) based in London before moving up to the homeland of Trefor in Gwynedd, edited by Debbie Prowse who has a team of dedicated and talented writers working 100% voluntarily for the magazine, their ages ranging from 16 to 38. Main content is of up and coming alternative Welsh bands with a lot of humour thrown in, ran at least til 9th issue. Printed on glossy paper, not a standard photocopied fanzine. It was 100% bilingual. Every paragraph was printed in one half of the magazine in English, and the magazine could be flipped over to read the entire content repeated in Welsh. Dedicated to Welsh bands and culture, featuring exclusive interviews with prominent artists. Early interviewees included Gorky’s Zygotic Mynci, Super Furry Animals, Topper, and Melys. WBW had a subsidiary company called Stwff which sold Welsh music by mail order at low prices. Debs Williams (Prowse), who was originally from London, was inspired to learn Welsh and immerse herself in the culture after hearing the band Gorky’s Zygotic Mynci at a gig in London and being fascinated by their music. This passion led her to establish the magazine. (website)
Welsh Rebel Outpost – project (Sep12) feat; Rhys Mwyn (bass) (Anhrefn), Neil Crud (gtr,voc) (4Q, PSST, Sons of Selina, Braxton Hicks, Spam Javelin), Dewi Gwyn (gtr) (Anhrefn), Owen Hughes (drms) (Hot Water, Fay Ray), Sera Owen (voc), Geth Reynolds (gtr) (Gwacamoli, Diablo Rojo). Played one off gig at Nant Gwrtheryn, Llithfaen (11.11.12).
Rhys resurrected the project in 2015, again with Neil, and this time Cumi Pants (drms) (4Q, Sons Of Selina, Alien Matter, Franks Dad, Courteous Thief), Sion Maffia (Anhrefn, Maffia Mr Huws), Dic Ben and Gethin Jones (all gtr) (Elfyn Presli) and Cai o’Marah (voc) (Radio Rhydd). One off benefit gig at Neuadd Ogwen, Bethesda (07.11.15). The project then continued in 2016-17 as a 4-pc feat; Rhys, Crud, Maffia and Cumi, playing gigs performing Anhrefn’s debut LP ‘Defaid, Skateboards a Wellies.’
Welsh Unsigned – website set up Oct02 to cater for, yes, you’ve guessed it…
Wendykurk – “avant-garde metal” band from Holyhead (formed 2000), feat; Nomi Leonard (gtr,voc) (later Dogbones, Dead Man’s Couch), Matt Watkins (gtr) (later Mongolian Dethkit, Deth Kats, Suma Suma, Dead Man’s Couch), Ben ‘Henchman’ Lee (bass) (ex Entity), Anton ‘Nos’ Hughes (drms). Released ‘Freckles EP’ on Ankst (25.04.02 – produced by David Wrench) then their debut and only LP ‘Soft Meat’ (2003). Recorded session for Radio One’s Sessions In Wales in 2003 and one for Adam Walton’s show (was released as a download 16.01.13). They then split in 2004 as Nomi explains; ‘Classic downward spiral of circumstance and mental health I guess. Rock n roll plug hole. Our manager died of cancer, we lost the band house, Ben lost his mind over his girlfriend and him and Nos disappeared back to Holyhead nowhere to be found. So I moved to London to start again and Matt moved to Manchester and that was that. A lot of stuff imploded at the same time… We lacked any kind of stability and did a lot of psychedelics, it’s hard to hold everything together when everyone’s a grade-A mess. We needed scooping up.’ (bandcamp)
We Shiver – Deeside band (c2010), feat; David Thomas (voc,gtr), Adam Hughes (bass), Farris (drms,voc), Gareth Jones (keys,voc) who were former members of Bystander and Stokoz To Moscow, and one half of I Am Austin. (website)
West Coast Sick Line – Project involving Dusty Moonan (ex- Babakin, Affliction, Orgasmic Funkers) playing all instruments himself. The idea was conceived in Glasgow, where Dusty lived for 5 years but returned to Colwyn Bay Sep11. Debut album, ‘Hope You All Have Nightmares, Except Kirsty’ (Feb12) to rave reviews with 7 of the 9 songs receiving airplay. Which was a surprise to all as the lyrical content was designed to make its listeners commit mass genocide or end their own lives at least. It was released free through Soundcloud, with the CD format following in May12. Put band together fronted by Stacey Anne Bates in 2014 to play some drunken shows and released LP ‘The Road To Billinge Hill’ (Oct14). Released ‘Colour Climax EP’ (12.06.20) (review) (bandcamp)
Westheads – Colwyn Bay based band, early 90s feat; Naldo Algeiri (gtr) (see Pocket Venus, Slide, Radionic), Steve Campbell (see Spoilt Victoria, Mr Grimsdale, Total Mind Fuck), Nathan Page (see Fatty Hatners, Radionic), James Cassidy (see Radionic, Jam Pilots) and Chris (drms).
Wet Bandits – Rhyl punk band (c2011), feat; Gary Whitehead (voc,gtr), Will Peters (bass), Ryan (drms). Last activity was in 2012. (youtube). More info req’d
Wet Te Bags – short-lived (if at all) school punk band from Rhyl (2002), feat; Toby Rastin (son of Steve Rastin), Daniel Birchall (bass) (nephew of Neil Crud), Jon Royles, Chris Dromey and Rickey Rees. See Hagakure
Whales – crazed project (c2009) by Bangor’s David McCann (voc,bass,drms) (ex Micrographia). Released LP ‘Open Ice Hits’ (on Bad Egg Jul10) (website)
Darren Wharton – former Thin Lizzy member (joined in 1980), formed Dare in 1985. Lives in Rowen. After moving to the area in 1992, he built his own recording studio there, where many of Dare’s albums have been produced.
Whatever – former name of Colwyn Bay indie/rock band Panacea.
Whipcord Records – Short-lived indie record label run by Adam Walton [BBC Radio Wales]. Released single by Widnes-based art punksters ‘Out’ [W-CRACK001 7″ vinyl only ‘Open Up’ c/w ‘21st Century Man’ 1999] – and Big Leaves’ debut English language releases – WCRACK002 7″ vinyl only – ‘Sly Alibi’ c/w ‘Double Trouble’ Jun99 and WCRACK003 7″ and CD – ‘Racing Birds’ c/w ‘Getaway Day’ [plus ‘Meillionen’ on CD] Nov99. The latter released was single of the week on Mark and Lard’s Radio 1 show and spent over a month on the indie single charts. The label lost a couple of thousand pounds, and is now ‘sleeping’ until Adam wins the lottery.
Whip Me and Go Moo Moo – fanzine from Corwen (1987) edited by Mark Williams (band member of The Rejected, Emily), a follow up from Shine fanzine adapting more of a student rag mag style. (See also Lemonade). Mark went to review restaurants for the Daily Post (since 2015)
Whipper Snapper – punk band from Rhyl, feat; Gary Messham (voc,gtr). Released single as download We’re All Fucked (Apr20)
Whiskey Trick – Bangor rock-blues band (c2008), feat; Markus (voc), Andy (gtr), Chris (gtr), Steve (bass), Peter (drms)
Chris White – rock bassist from Colwyn Bay and music journalist for the North Wales Pioneer. Prolific in the number of bands he’s played with, Hungry Touch, Stone Cold, White Tygrz, Think Lizzy and Burn. Also hires and sells PAs, and is in-house soundman at the Tivoli venue in Buckley.
White Ether – Caernarfon post-punk band (formed 2015), feat; John David Morris (voc), Steve Crocker (gtr), Keith Morris (gtr), Rhys Mwyn (bass) (ex Anhrefn, Mangre, Welsh Rebel Outpost), Iolo (drms). Released ‘White Ether EP’ (2016) followed by ‘Red Sky EP’ (May18). Known for prolific gigging up until Keith left in early 2019. Post-Keith they released single Time For You (06.01.20). Rhys then left in 2020 due to BBC Radio Wales commitments. Post-Rhys they released single Promised Land (23.01.21), then All Things Must Change (16.04.21), then Jesus Freaks (05.10.21). Mickey Cox (Scapegoats) joined on bass, making live debut 04.12.21 in Colwyn Bay. Iolo quit Aug23, replaced by James Bradford (also of Black Sheep). (bandcamp)
White Feather Kiss – Wrexham project by Alistair (ex Pink Killer). Released ‘Elephants Graveyard EP’ (Apr17)
White Leg End – Rhyl band (c1980s), feat; Dave Hughes, Karl Jones (bass) (see also BB3C, Strawberry Statement, Frightened By Strangers)
WhitePriest – Wrexham indie band (formed mid05), feat; Gaz (voc,gtr), Mike (gtr), Leon (bass), Andy (drms).
Whiteside – band from Colwyn Bay (c2006), feat; Gary Manzini (voc,gtr), Justin Van Marle (gtr) (both later of Courteous Thief), David Marle-Jones (bass), Alun Evans (drms). Released 4-track demo ‘Truth.’
White Skellingtons – Denbigh gang in the early 70’s aka The Skellies which was based in Accar-y-Forwyn in the town and were Andy Lloyd, Chris Wynne, Mark Wynne, Gary Wynne, Russell Furness, Ali Jones, Stewart Jones (ex Co HQ, Stewy Jones and Brian Locking etc), Stu Wynne (ex 5th Column, now of Mid Life Crisis), Paul Roberts and Melfyn Griffiths.
White Summer – band from Bangor area (c1983), feat; Carl Owen (bass), Eilian Jones (drms), Huw Heywood (gtr), John Dexter-Jones (voc). Had track Travelling Riverside Blues ’69 feat on local comp tape ‘Just When You Thought We Were Dead’
White Tygrz – formed in the late 80’s after a phone call to lead guitarist Glynn Porrino by bassist Mogga indicating that old pal Steve Jones was interested reforming Harvest Moon. Though this did not come to pass, it saw Mogga/Porrino/Jones having their first group hug since the demise of Harvest Moon many years prior. Formed by mutual consent, White Tygrz was an original act with a small selection of classic covers. To the line-up was inc Pete Roberts (drms) (ex Picture House), later replaced by drummers Roy Ward (ex-City Boy), and Madigan (who knows?). Mogga was replaced on bass by Chris White who remained until the end. Roy Ward now performs drms / gtr / bass / keys / voc in various Welsh bands, and has his own studio in Glyn Caerig. Madigan was last seen singing out of tune at Mad Dog Rehearsal Rooms, RAF Sealand. (See also Burn, Profiad, Stone Cold)
Whitewash – Colwyn Bay band (formed Oct02), feat; Daz Roddick (voc,gtr) (ex Dive, later Alien Matter, Ship Ahoy, Anti Virus, Deadlight Spiral), Dave Malam (gtr) (ex Dive), Nink (bass) (ex ISOR), Jase Dicken (drms) (ex Dive, later Lantern). Played MASE Nov02. Daz was last seen in the Far East (c2014) and Malam in Australia (2015)
White Wolves – Abergele indie band (formed May13), feat; Rosie Hamilton (voc), Tom Goodacre (gtr), Darren Roberts (bass), Nick Carter (drms). Rosie says, ‘We practise in a tiny room covered in cloth and fairy lights and did our first gig [Jul13] at a bikers do in Llanwrst, we went down really well and had people actually howling and shouting White Wolves at the end of the night so the goal is to get the crowd howling like wolves at every gig!’ After band split Rosie formed Terry and The Supercools, before concentrating on solo material and also working with The Goat Roper Rodeo Band and Hunzz (soundcloud)
Wild Eyes – Wrexham rock’n’roll weirdo band (formed 2011) relocated to Liverpool. Feat; Huw Roberts (voc,gtr), Neal Johnson (bass), Sam Gill (drms). Released debut 7″ I Look Good On You (14.05.12 on Holy Are You Recordings). Album was due in 2014, but unsure if it happened. (video)
Wildfire – band (formed 2004), feat; Sian Lloyd-Jones (voc,gtr), Aimee Stead, Wil Vickery, Jon Ord, Liz Bainbridge. Played a gig at Bar Blu, Rhyl
WildFire – rock-pop band from Gwynedd/Ynys Mon (formed 26.05.11), feat; Rosie Brown (voc), Weasel Rodgers (gtr), Dave “Rapid” Woodhouse (drms), Matthew Winson (gtr), Shaun Brown (bass). Made live debut at Caernarfon Cons Club (25.06.11), album was due May12.
Martin Wilding – Abergele based guitarist and studio engineer revered in North Wales for his excellence in both depts. Born 1969, he performed prolifically as one half of pop duo Boogie Run with partner, Elvis. When Elv moved to Germany, Wilding concentrated more on studio engineering despite being a gifted guitarist and helped mix Mansun, James, Stone Roses, Reef but to name a few. Joined Sons of Selina in 1994 and performed on their live BBC session and mixed a few tracks on their 2nd LP Fire in the Hole. Also ubiquitous with other bands such as TKRK and Dub Federation with his guitar skills. By 2002 had become more involved with The Alarm on an engineering and production level.
Neville Wilding – from Prestatyn, guitarist with The Fall (approximately 1999 to early 2001). He joined the band after performing on ‘The Marshall Suite’ as a session musician (along with Adam Helal, bass). In 1999, he was noted for being the “drunk man” backstage at the Reading Festival who found new drummer Nick Dewey after the rest of the band had left the previous drummer at motorway services. Trained as a hairdresser with manic sense of humour, used to cut hair at the town’s Aqua Clinic. Played with London band Hangar Straight (c1996).
Wild Man Ring – drunken project (early 90s) by Robin Hemuss and Martin Wilding, tracks rec; Tea Song (pisstake of Black Box Ride on Time) and a cover of Everybody Dance Now.
Wild Mornings – 5 piece indie band from Old Colwyn, released 4 track EP (Jul00), ‘Musical Rhymes For Breakfast Times’. Andy Dywer (voc), Daniel Rawlinson, Danny Armstrong and Gary Jones (better known as Gumpsh, guitarist with 4Q (1989-90) and with Frank’s Dad (91-98)). Later joined on drms by Mattie Williams, better known as ex-4Q man Matt Vinyl. Songs on the EP Moody Jane, Rock’n’roll Shoes, Friday Nights, The Feeling, likened to Oasis. Praised for their live performances over the recorded work. Signed to the Smokin Shark collective. Gumpsh joined Courteous Thief (Jul 2011-13)
Wild Orchid – Early to mid 90’s Colwyn Bay rock band. Jamie Price (gtr,voc), Dave ‘Dudge’ Barclay (bass), Dave Wilson (gtr), Pete Ryan (drms) (later Pocket Venus). Played local area, they won battle of the bands around 1994. 2nd demo ‘That’s The Way’ (released Sep93 – pic). Split up Jamie and Dudge moved to London to start Nutonic
Wild Weasel – Denbigh based pub-rock band split in 1999. Feat; Colin Broster (voc). Reached almost superstar status in their hometown, headlined at Pigstock 98.
Wili Nili – distribution arm of R-Bennig Recs, Anglesey
Ben Williams – Denbigh based singer-songwriter (c2006). Has performed in theatres across the county. Related (sort of) to Pete Bethell. Also rec a version of Homespun’s Badman. – see now Kameelion. Also appeared on TVs ‘Star In Their Eyes’ (2015)
Dez Williams – techno artist from Holy Island. Feat on ‘When I Was Ten’ comp LP (released 09.09.09) and went on to set up the Elektronik Religion label and release countless records inc; ‘Faecal Recognition EP’ (01.10.21). Dez remains true to the underground and simply creates for the love and need to do so. The mark of a true artist. He continues to DJ and play live sets across the world and has had releases on a variety of labels including Mechatronica, Acruacree, Ai, Cheap, SCSI-AV, Voodoo, Minimal Soul, Earwiggle and Bass Agenda (bandcamp)
Ffydd Williams – project name for Sam Cattell (ex Streams) of Denbigh (now based in London). Released Drugs I Take (17.01.25), followed by Stroma (09.05.25) (bandcamp)
Orig Williams – professional wrestler (20.03.1931 – 12.11.2009) from Ysbyty Ifan, aka El Bandito. After retiring became a promoter, manager and TV presenter. A fierce Welsh nationalist but he believed that the people of Wales should broaden their horizons through travel and self-learning to understand their country’s own identity better. He also had a very positive outlook on the abilities of the Welsh, and was disappointed with the negativity of many of his countrymen. Described as a friend of poets, midgets, gangsters and psychopathic wrestlers. Wrote his autobiography Cario’r Ddraig: Stori El Bandito in 1985. Father of Tara Bethan.
Wil Williams – artist from Oswestry area(?), released ‘Nant U Benglog EP’ (thru Snog 2004)
Daniel Williamson – singer/self-taught guitarist from Rhos-on-Sea (25.7.76), also voc for Tramp With a Plan (since 1997) and for The Ginger Kings (since 2011). Daniel says, ‘Been writing my acoustic songs since 1990. Some I use in both these bands. I write on piano and convert the chords to guitar these days. I’ve played live in England, Wales, Slovakia and Cuba on acoustic. I was born at home in Macclesfield at bang on 10:00pm in my mother’s bed on a Saturday night while my father and his friends were partying hard downstairs in our council house, totally unaware that I was in the world because their music was blasting out so loud. My grandfather came to GB in the early 50s from Jamaica and he was a double bass player for jazz musicians all over GB when he arrived here. He died in 97. My father was a poet and songwriter for NW England bands during the 70s and early 80s. He died in 85. Tramp With a Plan have asked me to sing for them for a few gigs this year after a 3 year break. I think they have faith in my sobriety these days as it used to be an argument with them quite against my partying sometimes. My voice was terrible when I drank too much whiskey. This year I have played most of my gigs totally clean and sober.’ Was the first person to play a live session on Neil Crud’s TudnoFM show on 03.05.16, and was invited back to play again on 17.10.16. Released album ‘Good Morning Tomatos’ (Dec20) (website)
Winebego – Bethesda indie band (formed spring02), feat; Meic Parry, Dylan Wyn Evans, Aled Wyn Jones (drms) (later Mr Huw), Llew Roberts. Made live debut sup The Keys at Railway Inst, Bangor (Apr03). Had BBC Radio Cymru Session aired May04 and Radio Wales session on Adam Walton’s show aired Jul05. Released debut EP ‘Hyder Bregus’ (Rasal Nov04). then download single Dal Fi Fyny (Rasal Jun05).
The Windings – notable former residential recording studio located at a property named High Meadow House in Cefn-y-Bedd, near Wrexham. Known for hosting several major British rock bands, particularly in the 1990s. It operated as a residential recording studio, offering accommodation (including a dormitory bedroom) alongside the professional recording facilities. The studio itself was housed in a separate detached building, where Martin Wilding was often found working. Bands like James, The Charlatans and Oasis have all recorded there. Ceased around 2000.
Windshite – Dave Macher‘s short lived musical project (1987). Tracks rec inc; Wilding The Elephant (no relation), Seaside Flange.
Wncl Fester – band, mid-late 90s, feat Dyfed Glyn Roberts (gtr) (later of The Fluff, Gwacamoli, Pocket Venus, Gotti), Guto Lloyd-Davies (bass). Their music is still receiving airplay on the radio and as TV background. Guto also plays bongos under the name “Rene Cabasa” (which started when he had the residency at Club Zinc, Rhyl playing along with the records).
Wnco Mwnco – dark-techno-trance-lounge project by DJ Sid from his London lair. See also 20 Racine. Released album ‘Disjecta Membra’ (02.11.20) (bandcamp)
The Wobbly Hearts – psycho-folk-indie band from Abergele (formed 2010), feat; Carl Roberts (voc,gtr) (Gintis), Rob Gintis (keys), Julian Neale (gtr) (Carpet, Morffe), Ralph Latham (bass) (Junebug), Hargi (drms) (Carpet, Morffe). Released debut single Boom On (With God On My Side) (on link2wales recs 05.03.13), with first album ‘Damned Suckers Luck’ (again on link2wales 01.10.15) and an accompanying month long tour to promote it. (soundcloud)
Wondercut – Wrexham’s answer to Aphex Twin (c2008). More info req’d
Wonderful Grip – Rhyl band of 1960s, got together after The Informers split up, feat; Ivor Jones, Frank Garrett (drms), Doug Mortimer, Jim Taylor and Phil Williams.
Wonderland – Bangor goth band (formed 1989), played Bangor Students Union at the Alternative Indie Music Society (AIMS) night. Is this the same band as listed below?
Wonderland – former name of She Said (tbc) (c1990) from Mold. Feat; Ade Dear. Played the Bistro in Rhyl. 4-track demo feat Loving Touch, When You’re Gone, I Wonder and Dreaming of The Time (pic)
The Woodsmen – see Arthur and The Woodsmen
Working Mans Tapes – tape label that operated out of Edward Henry St, Rhyl c1980. Released ‘Systems of Attraction’ comp tape that feat Jap Connection, X Men, Prevent Forest Fires, Tempodex amongst others. More info req’d
Worst Case Scenario – Wrexham punk band (c2016), feat; Tom Bell (voc), Jacob Cameron (gtr), Will Campbell (drms), Kev Edwards (bass), Georgia Davies (voc). Released debut EP ‘Our War’ (digital 06.08.16) (fb)
Wreckage – Conwy band (c2010), all of High School age feat; Ry Williams (drms). Play mainly covers
David Wrench – artist from Bangor, signed to Storm Recs, orig in Nid Madagascar then The Serpents, well renowned as a sound engineer and producer having worked with many name bands. Released singles Superhorny (Apr04) and Sodium Lights (Jan05), and LP ‘Atomic World of Tomorrow’ (Apr05). Sup Scissor Sisters (Mar04) and had live set broadcast from Blu, Rhyl (Mar04) and Rhyl Town Hall (Jul05) on Adam Walton‘s BBC Radio Wales show. Released album ‘Spades and Hoes and Plows’ (feat; Julian Cope) (Invada Recs 2010). Also one half of Audiobooks with Evangeline Ling. (website)
Chris Wright – musician (1950-2009) orig from Cefn Mawr, but moved to Prestatyn in later years. Played in approx 15 bands spanning 40 years but until his death. Was drummer for Patchwork (1975-79) then joined Baby Blue and the last band he was with were The Comfy Chairs. (newspaper story)
Wrightoid – Anglesey-based artist, John Wright (voc,keys,gtr). Has been recording on and off since 1997 but did not gain public exposure until the release of ‘A Masque For The Lido’ (R-Ben 075) on R-Bennig label (Jul05). This prompted sporadic airplay of track Tide Race on Adam Walton‘s Radio Wales show. A track which was also included on an R-Bennig comp ‘Dayglo Debris’ (R-Ben 074). Released LP ‘Dead Ape, Dead Bear’ (2007) and ‘Ysgyfarnog EP’ (’08), and regular output including ‘And The Landscape Watched Us Leave’ (01.07.22). John Wright was also a member of progressive alt-pop outfit 21 Chimneys. (bandcamp)
Wulfe – short lived Colwyn Bay punk band (c1989) feat; Derek ‘Rek’ Butterworth (drms) and Tim ‘Growler’ (voc,gtr) (both ex-Acrid Device, Open Defiance), and Eric (bass,keys). Released a cassette ‘What’s The Issue?’ and sold it at Conflict gigs.
WUPT – band from Anchorage, Alaska (c2007) feat; James Davies (voc) orig from Shotton. (website)
wUw – breakbeat dub project by Phil Jones of Bangor (c2009) (website)
Yr Wyddfa Records – label (c2023) run by Scott Marsden (of Holy Coves), did have a bandcamp page, but seems to have been taken down.
Elen Mai Wyn-Jones – Bangor/Llanrug singer-songwriter (2001-2015). Originally from Llanrug and a graduate of Bangor University, she was a captivating presence in the North Wales music scene, known for her hauntingly beautiful vocals and intricate compositions. Throughout her career, she performed extensively across the UK, appearing at festivals like S?n and Focus Wales, and released several acclaimed projects including the ‘Huna’ EP and her final work, the ‘Elen Mai’ EP. Her music, such as the poignant song The Raven, often blended folk sensibilities with an ethereal, experimental edge, earning her a devoted following and frequent airplay on BBC Radio Cymru. Following her tragic passing in 2015, her legacy continues to be celebrated by the Welsh artistic community as a profound talent who possessed a unique ability to weave emotion into every note.
Peter Wynne – Wrexham soloist (c2005). Played Central Station. Planned to released Live EP ‘Sentimental Connotations’ in 2005 (not sure if this happened)