Wales’ audiences will be able to enjoy its foremost folk talent performing live and intimate in the stunning 14th century Tythe Barn at St Donats Arts Centre on Saturday 3 October at 8pm as one of only two concerts in south Wales.
Born in Penarth in 1960, the massively talented and charismatic Welshman, Martyn Joseph is one of Wales’ great products and a successful export. He has been described by America as “a profound experience” and can pull in a 5,000 strong crowd at the Royal Albert Hall. Tom Robinson, himself a much lauded talent on the British music scene describes him as “one of the most charismatic and electrifying performers in Britain today”.
Whilst fans are very aware of his mighty singing and song-writing talent, they may not be so aware that this multi-talented performer began his public life in Wales on a different stage. By the age of 10, Martyn Joseph was an avid golfer. At 15 years old he was playing off a handicap of one and at 17 he became the youngest ever winner of the Glamorganshire Golf Club Championship – a title he won four times.
Eventually he focused his career path on music and cut his musical teeth in school eisteddfodau having written several songs by his early teens. He now commands a large fan-base in Wales and enjoys a unique and enviable connection with his audiences. This is due, in part, to Martyn’s topical humour and compelling performance ability.
Fundamentally though, in an age characterised by a lot of throwaway music, Martyn stands aside as a strong, tough and passionate songwriter who digs deep to deliver an ultimate, life affirming message. His songs rail against the broken promise playground of global leaders and then disarm for unexpectedly fragile love songs.
Martyn’s string of Top 50 hits (Dolphins Make Me Cry, Please Sir) has helped place him in prime position in folk music today. He is in demand here and in the USA, touring with Art Garfunkel and Jools Holland. He was voted the Best Male Artist in the BBC Welsh Music Awards and his latest album Evolved received four star MOJO review and Folk Album of the Month status.
His intimate concert will take place in the 14th century Tythe Barn Theatre at St Donats Arts Centre in the Vale of Glamorgan in the grounds of St Donats castle overlooking the sea with beautiful renaissance gardens – a magical experience in itself!
Tickets are available from 01446 799095 or online at www.stdonats.com
