Several bands contribute to new fundraising compilation album
SEVERAL Carmarthenshire bands are part of a new fundraising compilation album in aid of the charity Help Musicians UK.
The February 26 release, entitled And In The End... Help Musicians UK Charity Compilation, showcases more than 70 artists from all over the musical spectrum, including locally-based Adwaith, Culture Vultures and Los Blancos.
The compilation has been curated by Carmarthen-based music journalist and radio presenter Simon Tucker.
For almost 100 years, Help Musicians has been providing help, support and opportunities to empower musicians at all stages of their lives.
The independent charity aims to make a difference to the lives of musicians, offering a wide range of support which includes health and welfare services, creative development funding, and a mental health helpline.
At such a difficult time for the arts and music industry due to the Covid19 pandemic, the fundraising compilation couldn’t be more timely.
Speaking about the project, Simon, who writes for music and culture website Louder Than War and presents a weekly show on Derbyshire-based Radio Free Matlock, said this was his second compilation.
He added: “A few years ago I curated a compilation album raising funds for the charity Hope not Hate.
“This was around the time of the Brexit referendum and the murder of the MP Jo Cox.
“Artists such as Chris and Cosey, Beak, Datblygu, Membranes and a whole lot more kindly contributed to the album helping us to raise nearly £1,500 for the charity.”
Turning to the latest fundraising compilation,
Simon said: “What with the current situation, I felt now was the right time to try and put together another compilation only this time I really wanted the monies raised to go to musicians themselves.
“The pandemic has put a stop to so many ways that artists can earn money and they have been shown no support by the UK Government, which is not only having an effect on artists’ livelihoods but also their mental health, which is why I chose Help Musicians as the chosen charity.
“Music is so important to me and I want to do what I can to give back to those that have helped me on so many occasions without them even knowing it.
“Every penny outside of Bandcamp/paypal fees will go directly to the charity.”
And In The End...help Musicians UK Charity Compilation will be released via Bandcamp and is now available to pre-order.