Datblygu

Datblygu are a Welsh-language post-punk group from Cardigan, Wales. Formed in 1982, they are active from 1982 to the present and are made up of David R. Edwards and Patricia Morgan. They are also associated with art punk, lo-fi, minimal synth and minimal wave.

Background

Datblygu begin as a school-age project involving David R. Edwards and T Wyn Davies, with Patricia Morgan joining in 1985. They are widely described as a highly influential early Welsh-language underground group and are often compared to The Fall. Alongside groups such as Ail Symudiad, Y Trwynau Coch, Anhrefn, Y Cyrff, Fflaps, Llwybr Llaethog and Tynal Tywyll, they help shape a new wave of Welsh-language bands in the mid-1980s.

Recorded work

Before their first EP, the group release four cassettes: Amheuon Corfforol, Trosglwyddo'r Gwirionedd, Fi Du and Caneuon Serch I Bobl Serchog. Their debut EP, Hwgr Grawth-Og, appears in 1986 on Anhrefn. The following year they record the first of five John Peel sessions.

Their first full album, Wyau, appears in 1988. It is followed by Pyst in 1990, which is noted for its social commentary and is often regarded as their strongest collection. Blwch Tymer Tymor follows in 1991 on Ankst and presents a seasonal theme, including the track Ga I Fod Sion Corn. In the same period they issue LL.LL v T.G. Mc DRE, a collaboration album that pairs Edwards with Ty Gwydr on one side and Llwybr Llaethog on the other.

In 1992 they release the single Maes E and a compilation of Peel sessions subtitled No Aids, No Salmonella And No War In The Gulf. Libertino follows in 1993 and includes Maes E, Gazpacho and Cân i Gymry. Their 1995 single Putsch, released by Ankst, includes Alcohol and Amnesia.

Style and themes

Datblygu are known for experimental music and for moving between styles including disco, country, nursery rhymes, rockabilly, crooning and other forms. Their lyrics often address politics, social attitudes and artistic conformity, and their name is presented as meaning “Develop”.

Collaborations and context

The band work with Ty Gwydr and Llwybr Llaethog on LL.LL v T.G. Mc DRE. David R. Edwards also works as a Welsh teacher while the group are active, and the band receive regular attention from John Peel, whose support contrasts with neglect from much of the Welsh media.