Next, we spoke to Cardiff-based producer Don Leisure whose album Shaboo Strikes Back has made the prize's shortlist this year.
Congratulations on being nominated for the Welsh Music Prize! Can you tell us about your shortlisted album?
Many thanks indeed! My album ‘Shaboo Strikes Back’ is the successor to the 2017 debut album from myself which is called ‘Shaboo’. The record is a sort of tapestry of different sounds and influences which are quite varied. It’s essentially a representation or tribute to my record collection and ever expanding musical tastes. Or maybe it’s just sonic ADHD which made me put 20+ short tracks on an album.
How does it feel to be nominated?
It feels very surprising to be honest. I didn’t expect it at all. The recognition is cool but it’s never the reason I sit down in the studio to do anything. I feel with this record that it’s getting enjoyed in different spaces to the previous stuff I’ve put out. The support from 6Music (especially Laurene Laverne) and also the WMP love is a mark of this.
What impact has being based in Cardiff had on your work?
The pace of life down here is a bit slower than in say Manchester or London so it allows you more time to be creative. David Newington, Amanda Whiting and Gruff Rhys are all based in or near to Cardiff which did help in putting the album together. There is a lot of talent in these parts and I feel it’s easier to reach out and connect with local musicians here. Easier than it would be in London or something.
What are you most looking forward to in the next 12 months?
Continuing a project I’m developing with David Newington (Boy Azooga), working on my more dancefloor/electronic centric material under the alias THE AKH, ditto with some DnB output I’m planning under the moniker Khufu. I’m readying a multi sensory beat tape which will be announced very soon and also working on another Don Leisure album for First Word Records. There should hopefully be more collaborations with Gruff and Amanda too. Also working with some very very good rappers from New York but I can’t speak on that too much for now.
Tell us about any upcoming gigs…...
I’m doing a tribute to the jazz giant Pharoah Sanders at the new venue Paradise Garden on Oct 23rd and also spinning there on Nov 4th.
How can people find out more about you and your music?
You can check my Instagram @don_leisure_beats and the best way to support and buy anything is from Bandcamp.
More about the Welsh Music Prize
The Welsh Music Prize will take place on the 26 October at the Wales Millennium Centre as part of Llais 2022. Find out more about the festival and other nominees.
