Local bands back Madness in Merthyr on August 19
THIS summer’s big Madness concert in Merthyr Tydfil on August 19 has added a strong local flavour with Pretty Vicious announced as support, and another band from the town, Upbeat Sneakers, joining the line-up to take Madness fans back to their Ska roots.
The Madness announcement by event promoter Orchard Entertainment has been met with great enthusiasm and, with two very popular Merthyr bands now on the ticket, the grounds of Cyfarthfa Castle will be buzzing.
Pretty Vicious have been attracting rave reviews and fans alike since they broke through last year with a sound that merges an angry adrenaline rush with a genuine punk rock edge.
The four-piece of Brad Griffiths, Tom McCarthy, Jarvis Morgan and Elliot Jones signed to Virgin EMI, supported the Manics at Cardiff Castle, played Glastonbury, and count the likes of Zane Lowe and Huw Stephens among their fans.
Talking about his home town, Brad has said: “I love Merthyr because out of nothing comes something that is beautiful”.
Upbeat Sneakers are proving that if you’re good enough you’re old enough when it comes to Ska. The eight-piece of 14-21 year-olds this year released their double A side single Current Affairs c/w Here We Go Again, with a live show that is all about real songs from real musicians with real energy.
Simon Griffiths from RCTCBC Cultural Services and the Forté Project said: “Through the Forté project’s relationship with Orchard Entertainment, we’ve been able to offer a series of unique opportunities to all the artists on the project. This is a wonderful example of the Welsh music industry working together to support young talent.”
Also appearing on the day is long-time friend and DJ for Madness Chris Sullivan, from Merthyr, who will hit the decks in between all the acts.
The event sees Orchard working with the newly formed Merthyr Tydfil Leisure Trust.
Tickets available from: box office 029 2023 0130 Ticketmaster.co.uk SEEtickets.com Ticketline UK (Cardiff) and disabled bookings Derricks Music (Swansea) Or, in person, at: Cyfarthfa Castle Rhydycar Leisure Centre, Merthyr Redhouse, Merthyr www.madness.co.uk www.orchardentertainment.co.uk (Gates open at 4pm)