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Played Cymru #26: The Best In New Welsh Music
Clash Magazine's "Played Cymru" column returns for its 26th instalment, rounding up the best new music from emerging Welsh artists released in July 2026. The column highlights a diverse crop of albums and EPs spanning genres from Cardiff neo-soul to North Walian alt-country, underscoring the breadth and vitality of Wales's current music scene.
Featured acts include Cardiff duo papaya noon, whose debut EP has drawn praise from Snoop Dogg and 9th Wonder, and Welsh/Ghanaian singer ADJUA, who released her debut album after Great Escape festival appearances. Other highlights include Machynlleth ambient-pop artist Osgled, veteran Welsh-language alt-country trio Cowbois Rhos Botwnnog, and experimental bedroom-indie act menig, alongside mentions of numerous other artists who released tracks during the month.
In short
- Clash's monthly column spotlights emerging Welsh music from July 2026.
- Highlights include papaya noon, ADJUA, Osgled and Cowbois Rhos Botwnnog.
- Genres range from neo-soul to alt-country and ambient-pop.
Explained simply
Wales has music scenes in both Welsh and English, with artists working across styles from soul and country to electronic and indie music. Emerging musicians often release albums, shorter EPs and individual tracks as they build an audience.
Clash Magazine is a UK music publication, and Played Cymru is its column about new Welsh music. Its selections include artists from different parts of Wales and at different stages in their careers, from debut releases to work by established groups.
The column offers a snapshot of the range of music being made in Wales. It also draws attention to artists whose work may be less familiar to listeners outside their local scenes.