B-Side Guys

Eve Goodman and SERA discovered their artistic chemistry during a single writing session in Caernarfon, both having grown up in the same North Wales town before being selected as BBC Horizons Artists in 2019. Their “Blodyn Gwyllt” (Wildflower) emerges from this shared geography and linguistic heritage, transforming regional arts funding into something that transcends its bureaucratic origins. The track functions as both cultural preservation and contemporary artistic statement, proving that Welsh-language folk can engage modern audiences without compromising authentic expression.

The collaboration with seasoned musicians like Colin Bass and Gwyndaf Williams provides professional polish that serves rather than overwhelms the duo’s core intimacy. Bass’s production experience with Camel and BBC Radio 2 Folk Award winners brings necessary technical expertise, while Williams’s pedal steel adds textural depth that complements rather than competes with the harmonized vocals. Recording at Wild End Studio near Llanrwst creates sonic environment that matches the song’s natural themes.

The inspiration drawn from the Lost Words – Spells Songs project demonstrates sophisticated approach to cultural linguistics—using Welsh names for natural elements as creative foundation rather than mere decorative flourish. This methodology transforms language preservation from academic exercise into lived artistic practice, making Welsh vocabulary feel essential to the song’s meaning rather than optional ethnic flavor.

Eve Goodman and SERA’s vocal interplay creates the kind of harmony that suggests years of musical conversation rather than recently formed partnership. Their delivery carries the confidence of artists who understand their cultural positioning—neither apologetic about singing in Welsh nor aggressive about its political implications. The performance suggests genuine comfort with bilingual artistic identity.

“Blodyn Gwyllt” succeeds because it demonstrates how regional arts funding can produce work that serves both local cultural needs and broader artistic merit. The track proves that Welsh-language folk music can function as contemporary art form rather than historical artifact, creating space for linguistic diversity within folk traditions that often prioritize English-language accessibility. The duo has created something that honors their heritage while remaining genuinely accessible to audiences unfamiliar with Welsh culture.