The line-up of acts at the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod this year is simply stunning. The range of artists on offer reads like a who’s-who of the very best acts throughout music’s recent history. Their list of acts includes such legends as Tom Jones, Simple Minds, Bryan Adams and Nile Rodgers & CHIC.
After his exciting visit to FOCUS Wales last month, Stefan set out to see how the Eisteddfod compared and went along to see Bryan Adams and Simple Minds.
Bryan Adams
Bryan Adams was his first event and although the Canadian rocker was not one of his favourites, he absolutely loved it. “The concert was like a jukebox of all of Bryan’s greatest hits,” he said.
The supporting act was English singer-songwriter Cassyette who performed with a two-piece guitar and drums set-up. Stefan reports they were “quite heavy, quite gothicky. Cassy had a lot of energy and was storming about the stage getting the crowd going”.
Incidentally, Cassyette co-wrote and sang backing vocals for “Doomsday Blue“, the Irish Eurovision Song Contest 2024 entry, performed by Bambie Thug. Stefan continues, “Bryan Adams was really, really good. Highlights were ‘Run To You‘ and a moving rendition of ‘Simply The Best’, performed as a tribute to Tina Turner. An acoustic version of ‘When You’re Gone‘ was another standout moment.
He didn’t forget the crowd either, bringing 11-year-old Dylan up onto the stage after he won the competition for the best dancer in the audience! The Bryan Adam blimp was also a hit as it careered around the venue. Adams also endeared himself to the public when he jokingly claimed Bryan was a Welsh name! The band touchingly stopped playing at one point when a spectator needed medical attention.
Simple Minds
The next day it was another incredible night at the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod as global rock icons Simple Minds and fellow Scottish rock heroes Del Amitri delighted their adoring fans.
The Scottish legends rocked the Llangollen Pavilion, bringing some glorious Welsh sunshine along with them. Simple Minds played a nearly two-hour set that showcased songs from across their glittering career. Opening with the iconic Waterfront, they continued with hits such as Promised You A Miracle, New Gold Dream, Belfast Child and Don’t You (Forget About Me), before ending their encore with the massive anthem Alive and Kicking.
Standing alongside fellow founding member and guitarist Charlie Burchill, Simple Minds front man Jim Kerr told the packed crowd; “What a pleasure it is to be here with my Celtic brothers and sisters!” Special guests Del Amitri opened the night brilliantly with a set that included Always the Last to Know, Opposite View and Nothing Ever Happens.
This year’s headline shows conclude with Madness on 13th July. There is still time to book your tickets here.
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All images courtesy of Cuffe and Taylor.
