Melys, Pys Melyn, Sophie Kilburn – Neuadd Ogwen, Bethesda

Road trip today – off to Bethesda to see Melys live for the first time. They are playing four UK shows in their first headline tour since 2005, which is about the length of time I’ve been waiting to see them.

One of these was in Neuadd Ogwen in Bethesda, Gwynedd – 70 miles or two hours away from us. I’d booked the Travelodge in Bangor, about 5 minutes away from the venue, and have been playing endless Melys at home the last three weeks, so much so that Mrs RP decided she likes them too and therefore came with me.

The drive there was mostly through Eryri (Snowdonia National Park) and was absolutely beautiful. After checking in at Bangor we drove into town and had a drink at a very empty pub, The Fat Cat, before heading down to Bethesda.

The venue looked like a regular small pub from the outside but was a great big arts centre inside.

Melys were fantastic – and the venue, 400 capacity, was mostly full for their set. I managed to chat briefly to Andrea after the gig (and got a hug from her). Support was from Sophie Kilburn and Pys Melyn. It was great to drive 5 minutes back to our room rather than a long drive home.