Five: North Wallians currently at the Scarlets

When the WRU introduced the regional set-up back in 2003, as a way of strengthening the club level rugby in Wales, one of the most striking part of the structure was the fact that the Scarlets was to control, not only West Wales, but also being the representative region for the whole of North Wales. At opening stages, the Scarlets’ involvement at the North was pretty strong, as they held numerous training camps for children around the North, and occasionally played Celtic League games at the Racecourse Ground, Wrexham. By now, North Wallians do not enjoy the same access to the region, and, in all honestly, it has been quite disappointing to see the Ospreys being more involved with activities in towns such as Colwyn Bay, as opposed to the official representatives.

But, despite this disappointment, the Scarlets have stuck to their policy of signing young North Wallains into their development system – a good thing for North Wales rugby, but is also a gives a big impact to the current Scarlets squad and hope for the future first team squad. This edition of “Five” introduces the finest North Wallians that are currently in the Scarlets development pyramid. Comments are all my personal opinion:

5. Andrew Fenby – Winger

 Over the past year, Andy Fenby has been very unlucky with injuries, and has missed a prolonged period of time on the pitch. This was a big disappointment to the fans, after he made a big impact on the start of the 2010/2011 season by contributing with a number of important tries in the early stages of the campaign. But Fenby, nicknamed ‘Crazy Legs’ by the supporters, is back this season, and his determined character means that he could may well be a big force for the team during the World Cup period, and will be a leader to the young players stepping up. Having already felt the thrill of try scoring again, in the 32-9 demolition of Aironi, the Llandudno RFC product maybe a very useful player to come off the bench for impact for the rest of the season, when the internationals return from New Zealand.

4. Iolo Evans – Utility Back

  Being one of only two Caernarfon RFC products plying their trade at the Welsh regional set-up, alongside Ospreys prop Cai Griffiths, Iolo Evans is currently playing for Llanelli RFC in the Principality Premiership. Having made only one appearance so far for the first team, facing international winger Aled Brew in a LV= Cup match at Rodney Parade last season, Iolo is certainly classified alongside the likes of Adam Warren, Jordan Williams and Aled Davies as youngsters who are knocking on the door of a regular first team spot within the next three years. He has impressed many with his combination of power, speed and aggression, something that has been lacking in the Scarlets’ game at times, and he will hope to repeat the form he showed last season for league champions Llanelli, which pushed him through for a place in Richard Webster’s Junior World Cup squad this summer.

3. Rhodri Jones – Prop

Another player who played in the Junior World Cup in Italy over the summer is Rhodri Jones – arguably Wales’ best player over the course of the tournament. Despite still being very young, Jones, or ‘Mammoth’ as he is nicknamed at his former club, Pwllheli, has made a number of appearances for the Scarlets since making his debut at Welford Road in the Heineken Cup last October. After first moving from the ‘Gogledd Cymru’ academy to the Newport-Gwent Dragons, he soon made the switch to join former team-mate George North at the Scarlets rank. He has since made 23 apperances for the Scarlets, and they will have high hopes for the youngster, who has shown impressive ball carrying skills and scrumming techniques in his time as an age-grade international and Scarlets player.

2. Rob McCusker – Back-Row

Despite only being 25 years old, international flanker McCusker already seems to be one of the senior figures of the squad, with an impressive 60 appearances to his name already. Rob ‘The Gog’, as he is commonly known, has earned 4 caps for the Welsh international team since his move from Mold RFC – and could be counted as very unlucky not to be on the plane to New Zealand for the World Cup. He has established himself as one of the first names on Nigel Davies’ team-sheet, and his physical presence has certainly made a big difference to the Scarlets pack. He made his debut for the senior side back in 2008/2009 against Edinburgh, and has since become a favourite with the Scarlets fans due to his commitment in games and all-round abilities around the pitch.

1. George North – Winger

It would be very easy to argue that George North is the most exciting prospect in world rugby at the moment. Having burst on to the scene, outshining England international man-mountain Lesley Vainikolo on his debut in a friendly against Gloucester at Kingsholm, and scoring an impressive brace on his Magners League debut at Treviso; he was selected for the senior international side with only 8 first team appearances under his belt. On his international debut, he again scored a brace in a narrow Welsh defeat to the Springboks, where he faced on of his childhood heroes, Bryan Habana. The 6’ 3”, 16 stone winger has since won more caps for Wales than he has for the Scarlets. By displaying a mixture of speed, strength, maturity and vision in his appearances for both club and country, he became a fan favourite for rugby supporters around the world following his mesmerizing performances at the World Cup, and became opponent’s worst nightmare at the same time. I can guarantee you one thing, George, the lad from Llangefni, has a lot more to offer to the world of rugby.

5 to watch: Scarlets

  As I watched the Scarlets’ matches over the World Cup period, it has been obvious to me that the young players that is being given opportunities on the pitch for the region in the absence of the international players is giving the Llanelli-based team plenty of reasons to be excited for the future. I have compiled a list of five players that have left their stamp on the field, and have the potential to be the next players to permanently break through the ranks of Scarlets’ world-famous academy:

 Kirby Myhill – Hooker

With Matthew Rees being a perfect role model for Myhill, the young player from Carmarthen is the latest in line of impressive hookers at the west-Wales region. Following an injury to Rees and the absence of Ken Owens, who is with Wales at the World Cup, it is the perfect time for Myhill to prove his worth to the coaches, and earn the nod for the number two jersey ahead of his main competitor, Emyr Phillips. Since recently moving from flanker to hooker, Myhill has already earned a handful of invaluable experience, including coaching from the All Black academy and representing the Wales Under 20s at the World Cup in Italy during the Summer. There are still elements from his flanker days that are obvious to his game, which adds a different dimension to the Scarlet pack. Following his uncle, Mark Perego’s footsteps into professional rugby, he has the potential to be a leading member of the Scarlets and Welsh squad over the long-term future.

4. Liam Williams- Winger

  Another player who represented Wales in Italy over the Summer, Liam, or ‘Sanjay’, has made a big impact since joining up with the main squad at the start of the season. He has seemingly cemented his place on the wing in the absence of the likes of George North and Sean Lamont, after impressive displays, despite competition from the likes of Dale Ford, Lee Williams and Lee Rees. A very good player under the high ball, his combine of speed and height makes him a very handy player, and has already shown his try scoring abilities by touching down in the LV Cup game against English giants Leicester Tigers.

3. Adam Warren – Centre

  Warren is another youngster who has already made very impressive stridesfor the main side at the start of the season, following his debut against Edinburgh, that resulted in him touching down twice. Having impressed in the Principality league for club side Llandovery, there are already strong calls being made by the Scarlets’ faithfull for him to be brought into the starting XV on a permanent basis, especially following the man-of-the-match performance in the Edinburgh game. A good line breaker and also strong in the contact area, both offensively and defensively, Adam Warren could be a competitor to the likes of Jonathan Davies and Scott Williams in a couple of season.

2. Aled Davies – Scrum-Half

  Martin Roberts, Dwayne Peel, Mike Phillips and Tavis Knoyle. These are scrum-halfs of the recent era that have been produced by the Scarlets and have represented the international side. So it would not be stupid of you to put your money down that Aled Davies, a former pupil of Bro Myrddin school, will be next in line. With a very mature head, he was part of the Under 18 side, alongside George North, that was narrowly beaten by the Cardiff Blues in the Reebok Regional final back in 2009/2010. His quality was proved as he won ‘Rugby World’s Schools Player of the Month’ – a competition that is being held throughout Britain. Having had his apperances for both club and age-grade country limited due to massive unluckiness of injury, Davies will be more determined than ever to prove his quality and fitness to fans and coaches. As well as having a strong kicking game, he is very good as analysing the situation in games, and making breaks, and could easily be compared to Dwayne Peel. If he does prove his fitness, he could overtake Gareth Davies and Rhodri Williams as the main competitor for Tavis Knoyle’s number 9 jersey.

1. Jordan Williams – Fly-Half

 There is no doubt that Jordan has been causing massive excitement throughout the region. The youngest squad member at the moment, he is excellently able to control the game and handle pressure at such a fragile age. Not only being able to rack up points from the boot, he is an all-rounder – being able to create and score tries – as demonstrated when he faced Leicester Tigers last week. He could not be an understudy to much better players in the form of Stephen Jones and Rhys Priestland, his creativity skills are obvious – and has taken over the number 10 jersey for Llanelli RFC, which has been worn by Priestland and Steve Shingler over the past 4 years. He only turned 18 during September, and has been described by fans as the player who could offer the creativity that the side is missing. His size may be his biggest weakness – although it does not seem to get any effect on his defence – but yet again, he has another three years or so to grow. Watch this space.

Adolygiad: Pesda Roc 2011

Un o fy hoff atgofion fel plentyn oedd sefyll ar gae rygbi Bethesda a cael gweld un o fy hoff fandiau yn chwarae, sef Super Furry Animals. Er nad yw’n hollol glir yn fy meddwl, dwi’n dal i gofio mod i wedi gwirioni wrth glywed Gruff Rhys yn rocio i ‘Rings around the World’ – fy hoff gan ar y pryd, diolch i Dad!

 Felly, wrth gerdded lawr llwybrau llwch maes yr Eisteddfod blwyddyn yma, a dod ar draws poster Pesda Roc, yn dangos fod rhai o enwau mwya’r SRG yn chwarae o amgylch Bethesda am 4 diwrnod, roeddwn i wrth fy modd. Be gai well na hwyl, dathlu, cofio a cherddoriaeth da? Wrth gwrs, roedd rheswm dros yr wyl yn cael ei  chynnal, sef cofio a dathlu bywyd Les Morrison, yn ddadleuol un o ffigyrau mwyaf dylanwadol y SRG!

 Felly, dyma fi’n glanio yn Neuadd Ogwen ar y nos Iau. Unwaith oni ‘rioed ‘di bod yna o blaen – a hynny i weld  darlith am Un Nos Ola’ Leuad gan J Elwyn Hughes - felly, roedd gini deimlad cry’ bysa’ y noson yma yn tipyn gwahanol! Cowbois Rhos oedd yn cychwyn y nos – perffaith! Ar y cyfnod yma roedd y dorf i gyd yn eistedd, ac heb fod yn feirniadol o gwbwl, roedd cerddoriaeth CRB yn siwtio’r awyrgylch yn wych. Roedd o’n gyfla’ i fi gael gwrando yn iawn ar yr hogia o Benllyn, oherwydd dwi wedi dod i fwynhau nhw yn fwy ac yn fwy ers i fi glywed nhw ym Maes B Bala. Dwi’n teimlo fod y s?n “mwy” ma’ nhw ‘di datblygu yn wych, gan wneud iddyn nhw swnio’n fwy aeddfed ac yn mynd i newid meddwl pobl gul oedd yn arfar meddwl fod ‘country and western’ yn shit.

Y band nesaf i ddod i’r llwyfan oedd Y Niwl, a roedd ‘na deimlad o gynwrf wrth ddisgwl am y band i ddod i’r llwyfan, yn dilyn eu llwyddiannau â Football Focus. Dwi’n ffan mawr o’r band yma, a dwi’n teimlo fod nhw’n haeddu pob llwyddiant sy’n dod iddyn nhw o hyn ymlaen. Pan wnaethan nhw ddod i’r llwyfan, wnaeth rhyw 15 o bobol ruthro i’r lle dawnsio yn syth sy’n dangos fod nhw’n fand poblogaidd. Unwaith eto, cadw’n glir o’r microphone wnaeth aelodau’r band, a dwi’n licio hynny, achos mae’n wahanol. Mae’n cwl mewn ffordd, ac er fod o’n edrych fel fod nhw’m yn mynd i roi llawar o ymdrech i fewn i’r perfformiad, dyw’r swn ddim yn adlewyrchu huna.

Gruff Rhys oedd yn hedleinio’r noson. Dyma’r foment oni wedi edrych yn ôl arno o’r blaen, ac wedi edrych ymlaen amdano tro hwn – cael gweld y seren byd-enwog ar lwyfan bach mewn pentre’ sydd chwarter awr i ffwrdd o lle dwi’n byw. Erbyn hyn, roedd y lle dawnsio yn llawn pobol oedd eisiau clywed Gruff yn agos. Cychwyn ar ben ei hun wnaeth o, gyda set acwstig. Rhwng ambell i gan, roedd o’n talu teyrnged i Les gyda stori, oedd yn gwneud hi’n awyrgylch braf ac yn brofiad arbennig i fod yn rhan ohono.

Roedd y gig es i weld ar yr ail noson wedi ei anelu yn fwy at bobl ifanc fel fi! Neshi aros yn y Llangollen am hir, sef tafarn sy’ ‘di gweld mwy o gigs yn ddiweddar wrth i Dilwyn Llwyd, trefnydd Gwyl Gardd Goll a Pesda Roc, ddechrau trefnu gigs yno. Ond methu band Dilwyn neshi – am fy mod i ‘di aros yn y pyb rhy hir – gan gyrraedd just mewn pryd i weld can cyntaf Jen Jeniro. Dros yr Ha’, roeddwn i wedi gorfod adolygu EP newydd Jen Jeniro, sef Swimming Limbs (ar gael ar iTunes), i C2, ac wedi ei fwynhau yn arw. Felly roedd hi am fod yn ddiddorol clywed y fersiwn byw. Fel arfer, roedd JJ yn gerddoriaeth poppy a jolly i’w fwynhau, a oni ‘di mwynhau nhw ar y noson yma fwy nag oni wedi eu clywed nhw o’r blaen.

Yr Ods oedd yn hedleinio yn noson y tro hwn. Nhw ‘di fy hoff fand i ar hyn o bryd, a dwi’n mwynhau eu gweld nhw’n fyw achos dwi’n cael dod yn fwy a fwy cyfarwydd â’r caneuon bydd yn dod i fyny ar yr albwm hir-ddigwyliedig. Unwaith eto, roedd y band yn chwarae yn dynn gyda’u gilydd, sydd, gyda’r caneuon eu hunain, yn eu gwneud nhw’n fand mor dda. Ar un pwynt, nath Gruff Pritch hyd yn oed ddod mewn i ganol y gynilleidfa i chwarae. Ond prif siom y noson oedd fod y tefnwyr wedi cyfyngu yr amser oedda nhw’n cael chwarae i rhyw hanner awr, felly oedd ‘na ambell i hit ddim ‘di cael ei chwarae. Piti fod hynny ‘di rhoi ‘chydig o ddampnar ar lwmp o noson dda. Aros ym Methesda wnaethon ni y noson honno, ac y bore drannoeth, wrth gyrraedd adra wedi noson hwyr / bore cynnar, fy ngeiria ola’ cyn mynd i’ng ngwely oedd “No wê dwi’n mynd i Pesda heno.”

 Rhyw 7 awr yn ddiweddarach, roedd fy nghalon i’n gwibio o gynwrf wrth i mi sefyll, unwaith eto, tu allan i Neuadd Ogwen, yn barod am uwchafbwynt yr wsos. Yn anffodus roedd Geraint Jarman wedi tynnu allan – rhwyun oni ar biga’ drain i’w weld er mwyn cael dweud mod i wedi ei weld o – oherwydd rhesymau oedd tu allan i ddwylo pawb! Ond, doedd popeth ddim yn ddrwg. Roedd gini dal y cyfle i weld dau fand lleol yn ffurf Celt a Maffia Mr Huws. Dwi’n ffan mawr o albym @Com gan Celt, efo caneuon fel Bethlem a’r Groes, Un Wennol a Streets of Bethesda yn uwchafbwyntiau yr albwm yna. Oni ‘di gweld Celt yn chwarae yn Clwb Rygbi Caernarfon ychydig fisoedd yn ôl, ac er fod na’m lot yna, roedda nhw’n dal i chwarae fel bod nhw’n rili mwynhau. Ond tro ‘ma roedda’n nhw’n chwarae i gynilleidfa oedd wedi gwerthu allan, a roedd y perfformiad yn dangos hynny, wrth iddyn nhw gamu fyny i gear newydd, a pob un ohona nhw’n canu ac yn chwerthin ar y llwyfa. Da oedd gweld y dorf yn canu ymlaen hefo nhw ‘fyd. Ac er mod i ‘rioed wedi ei gyfarfod, dwi’n siwr y bysai Les wedi mwynhau hefyd.

  Maffia Mr Huws oedd i gloi yr wyl i mi yn bersonol. Dwi di clwad lot o ganmoliaeth am berfformiada’ byw Maffia, ac wrth fy modd efo y gan ‘Gitâr yn y To’, felly roedd cael gweld nhw yn fyw am y tro cyntaf yn eitha’ cyffrous. Roedd y perfformiad yma’n gwneud i’r noson diemlo fel noson deyrnged go iawn! Roedd gwesteion arbennig yn dod i ymuno â’r band, caneuon ‘covers’ yn cael eu canu a straeon yn cael eu adrodd. Roedd pawb oni wedi siarad gyda nhw yn dweud gymaint oedden nhw wedi mwynhau y noson, a bod awyrgylch arbennig i’r noson, fel nad oedden nhw ‘rioed ‘di deimlo o’r blaen.

  Felly roedd y tair noson yn deyrnged berffaith i Les, ond hefyd i safon cerddoriaeth Gymraeg yr ardal. Gobeithio y byddwn yn cael gweld Pesda Roc yn dychwelyd yn flynyddol o hyn ymlaen, oherwydd, o edrych ar raddfa lwyddiant yr ?yl y flwyddyn yma, bydd hi’n datblygu i fod yn un o brif wyliau Cymraeg yr Ha’

Rugby World Cup 2011: Player Preview

Similar to its footballing equivalent, representing your country at the Rugby World Cup is a pinnacle for every professional rugby player. The World Cup, also recognized as the Webb Ellis Cup, gives the stage for players to impress on the international stage and be remembered as a part of history, as the likes of Jonah Lomu and Jonny Wilkinson did in 1995 a 2003 respectively. But who will be making an impact during this year’s tournament? Here is my prediction

1.       Soane Tonga’uiha – Tonga & Northampton Saints

The 6’3, 290lbs prop, ironically nicknamed ‘Tiny’, has had a major impact on the Aviva Premiership and Heineken Cup over the last season, as the Saints finished as runners up in Europe’s prime competition. Well known for his large size and fierce runs, he could prove a handful for opposing defences, which include France, Japan and the mighty All Blacks. Recently turned down a move to the Saracens, in order to sign a new three year deal with the Saints, he was also part of the 2007 World Cup squad which pushed eventual finalists England and South Africa to hard-fought victories during the pool stages.

2.       Marius Tincu – Romania & Perpignan

Leader of the Romanian team, who traditionally has a strong a physical pack, has also been a star for French side Perpignan over the last season. He has scored an impressive 14 tries over 36 caps, since making his debut in 2002. During the last World Cup campaign, Tincu played in all four of Romania’s pool stages games, and managed a try in the games against Italy, Portugal and the All Blacks. He will hope to inspire the Romanians to cause an upset during the pool stages, and will surely target a shock win over the Scots in their opening fixture. Romania have managed to win one game in each campaign since 1987.

3.       Ben Alexander – Australia & Brumbies

On the back of a successful Tri Nations campaign, the 26 year-old Brumbies prop will hope to maintain his excellent form in the World Cup, as the Aussies would love to snatch the Webb Ellis Trophy at their rival’s back garden. With surprising attacking attributes, as Alexander became Brumbies top try scorer during the 2010 campaign with 7 tries in 13 appearances, he could offer an extra dimension to the Wallabies’ play.

Other potential front-row stars: Wiliam Servat (France & Toulouse)

                                                           Owen Franks (New Zealand & Crusaders)

                                                           Dylan Hartley (England & Northampton Saints)

                                                           Cian Healy (Ireland & Leinster)

                                                           Martin Castrogiovanni (Italy & Leicester Tigers)

                                                           Bismarck du Plessis (South Africa & Sharks)

4.       Victor Matfield – South Africa & Blue Bulls

32 year old Matfield has been an invaluable asset to the Springboks’ game since his debut against Italy in 2001. Going into the tournament with a World Cup medal already around his neck, following the 2007 success, as well as an array of provincial success, such as 3 Super Rugby league titles, Matfield will hope to repeat the successes of his career so far by retaining the Webb Ellis Cup. He has already admitted that he is flirting with international retirement following this year’s tournament, to pursuit a career in Australia, and will look to use his famous line-out jumping, of which he is considered the best in the world at doing, to disrupt any opposition set-pieces. Wales’ selection of 6’9 lock forward Luke Charteris for the opening game is proof of Matfield’s aerial threat.

5.       Bradley Davies – Wales & Cardiff Blues

Despite being dropped to the bench ahead of the opening match against the Springboks, there is no doubt that Davies could still emerge as a star during this year’s campaign. The former Beddau youth player was the Wales U20’s captain in 2005 as the team clinched a Six Nations Grand Slam. He has already proven himself to be capable to perform under pressure, after an excellent display against France in the 2010 Six Nations campaign, which was played mere days following the death of his mother.

Other potential second row stars: James Horwill (Australia & Queensland Reds)

                                                              Richie Gray (Scotland & Glasgow Warriors)

                                                              Julien Pierre (France & Clermont Auvergne)

                                                              Ali Williams (New Zealand & Auckland Blues)

6.       Sean O’Brien – Ireland & Leinster

Having emerged as an exciting prospect, it’s no surprise that the Leinster flanker has already attracted strong interest from money-driven French sides. His attacking, defensive and rucking abilities have been highlighted. He has already received attention from the most respectable pundits in world rugby, and was even named Guinness’ Rugby Writer’s Irish Player of the Year for the season 2010-2011 and the ERC European Player of the Year.

7.       Sam Warburton – Wales & Cardiff Blues

Replacing the messiah of modern Welsh rugby, that is Martyn Williams, is no easy task, especially for a 22 year old. Warburton became the second youngest Welsh captain when he led the team, in the absence of Matthew Rees, against the Barbarians in June. Having already won 18 caps for the national side since his first appearance against the United States back in 2009, ‘Warby’ has emerged as a master of the tackle-area, and is tipped to follow All Blacks legend Richie McCaw as one of the best flankers of the modern era.

8.       Juan Martin Fernandez Lobbe – Argentina & Toulon

Juan Lobbe, who will serve the Pumas as vice-captain during the World Cup, will hope to repeat the shock success of Argentina during the 2007 World Cup, of which he was an integral squad member, this time around. Having already defeated England in 2006 and 2009, of which he was the captain during the latter of the games, he will face the English again, in more important circumstances. His brother Ignacio will not be in the squad during this campaign, but there is no doubt that Juan, will be a key figure should the Argentines provide yet another World Cup shock.

Other potential back row stars: Toby Faletau – Wales & Newport-Gwent Dragons

                                                          Jerome Kaino – New Zealand & Auckland Blues

                                                          James Haskell – England & Ricoh Black Rams

                                                         David Pocock – Australia & Western Force

                                                         Sergio Parisse – Italy & Stade Francais

                                                         Richie McCaw – New Zealand & Crusaders

9.       Will Genia – Australia & Queensland Reds

Although Genia is only 23 years old, he has a very mature game for his age. The Australian Super Rugby Player of the Year, following more than impressive performances for eventual league winners Queensland Reds, has been compared to Australian hero George Gregan, and has already been trusted with the Reds’ captaincy, and Eddie Jones, Wallabies coach, believes he should take the role of national team captain as well. His 60-meter dash to score an important try during the Super Rugby final against Crusaders highlights his attacking and exciting abilities.

Other potential scrum-half stars: Morgan Parra – France & Clermont Auvergne

                                                             Ben Youngs – England & Leicester Tigers

                                                             Eoin Reddann – Ireland & Leinster

                                                             Fourie du Preez – South Africa & Suntory Sungoliath

                                                             Tavis Knoyle – Wales & Scarlets

10.   Quade Cooper – Australia & Queensland Reds

Genia’s half-back partner for club and country may be the man to challenge Dan Carter as the world’s leading outside half. New Zealand-born Cooper has made huge strides in his development over recent years. Gone are the days of Youtube compilations of Cooper howlers, as they are replaced by videos of his lightning quick footwork and silky passing, as he has advanced the Reds and the Wallabies into an exciting era of fresh talent. The Super 14 Player of the Year leaves the goal-kicking duties to winger James O’Connor, but he contributes plenty of points to the men in gold through his playmaking skills.

Other potential outside-half stars: James Hook – Wales & USA Perpignan

                                                               Rhys Priestland – Wales & Scarlets

                                                               Morne Steyn – South Africa & Blue Bulls

                                                               Dan Carter – New Zealand & Crusaders

                                                               Jonathan Sexton – Ireland & Leinster

12.   Sonny Bill Williams – New Zealand & Unattached

Facing an All Black centre and a professional boxer would be an opposition nightmare, whether it was on the rugby field or in the boxing ring. No, Sonny Bill, or SBW, is no ordinary professional rugby player. After building a reputation on the Rugby League stage, SBW decided to switch codes in order to join up with multi-bucks French side, Toulon. His most important assets are his physical strength and his extraordinary offloading abilities, which, when combined together, makes him one of the most effective playmaker on the international stage.

13.   Manu Tuilagi – England & Leicester Tigers

Manu is the latest in line of the legendary Tuilagi rugby family. Despite other family members, such as brothers Alesana and Henry, playing for the Samoan national team, Manu has decided to play for England, making him the first Samoan-born player to represent the England national side. He made a huge impact on his international debut, in a World Cup warm up game against Wales at Twickenham, by scoring an impressive try to seal a victory over their fierce rivals. The 17st centre has certainly seemed at home playing for Leicester Tigers and for England, but his main disadvantage seems to be his indiscipline, after he was banned for 5 weeks, following a punch on fellow England international Chris Ashton while on club duties.

Other potential centre stars: Ma’a Nonu – New Zealand & Ricoh Black Rams

                                                          Joe Ansboro – Scotland & London Irish

                                                 Adam Ashley-Cooper – Australia & New South Wales Waratahs

                                                          Brian O’Driscoll – Ireland & Leinster

                                                          Jamie Roberts – Wales & Cardiff Blues

                                                          Seilala Mapusua – Samoa & Kubota Spears

11.   Vereniki Goneva – Fiji & Tarbes

I know what most of you are thinking, “Who?” Yes this is what I thought when I first heard about this player. How can he be more of a threat than the likes of Hosea Gear, Tommy Bowe and Chris Ashton? Well, Goneva was controversially left out of Fiji’s 2007 World Cup squad, and is determined to prove those selectors wrong this time around. With an impressive record of 80 points in 20 appearances for the national side, including a brilliant individual try against the mighty All Blacks, he may well prove to be this World Cup’s surprise package.

14.   George North – Wales & Scarlets

Standing at 6’4 and weighing in at 17st, George North is no ordinary winger. In fact, he would look more likely to be a second row than a winger! Already being compared to rugby great, Jonah Lomu, North has seemingly emerged from zero to hero over the last year, and is proving to be one of rugby’s highly rated ‘wonder kids’. Although he was born in Kings Lynn, England, there was no doubt that he always wanted to represent the men in red, after developing his rugby career through Scarlets’ famous academy, which has also produced the likes of Jonathan Davies, Rhys Priestland, Ben Morgan and Josh Turnbull. After scoring twice on his debut against reigning world champions, South Africa, George North has continued to be on the scoring board regularly over the past year, despite injury having limited his apperances. North will be someone to look out for, especially as he offers a new dimension of play for wingers.

Other potential wing stars: Maxime Medard – France & Toulouse

                                                  Isaia Toeava – New Zealand & Auckland Blues

                                                  Chris Ashton – England & Northampton Saints

                                                  James O’Connor – Australia & Melbourne Rebels

                                                  Tommy Bowe – Ireland & Ospreys

                                                  Takudzwa Ngwenya – USA & Biarritz

15.   Kurtley Beale – Australia & Melbourne Rebels

Beale is arguably one of the most dangerous attacking threats in the world. After scoring 7 tries in 12 caps for the Wallabies during 2010, including a brace against England, his surging runs from the full-back position meant that opposing defences were shacking in their boots whenever he received the ball – and would try to avoid any of their kicks from landing in his hands. During this year’s Tri Nations, he heroically jumped to his feet after being treated for injury to complete a try saving tackle against the Springboks, proving that he has high commitment as well as natural ability.

Other potential full-back stars: Francois Steyn – South Africa & Racing Metro

                                                    Mils Muliaina – New Zealand & NTT Docomo Red Hurricanes

                                                         Ben Foden – England & Northampton Saints

                                                         Chris Paterson – Scotland & Edinburgh

Diwrnod yn y stiwdio gyda Yr Ods / A Day in the studio with 'Yr Ods'

  Mae Yr Ods wedi sefydlu eu hunain ymysg prif fandiau y SRG. Gyda caneuon fel ‘Y Bel yn Rowlio’, ‘Cofio Chdi o’r Ysgol’, ‘Turn Around’ a ‘Fel Hyn am Byth’ yn cael eu chwarae yn aml ar C2 a rhaglenni teledu S4C, mae’r band wedi llwyddo i adeiladu dilyniant mawr o fewn y SRG. Wrth iddyn nhw weithio ar albym newydd , ges i’r cyfle i ddal i fyny hefo Griff, Gruff, Rhys a’r ddau Osian wrth iddynt agosau tuag at ddiwedd y cyfnod recordio:

‘Sbwriel, cartŵns a lyrics’. Dyma oedd yn fy wynebu wrth i mi gerdded i mewn i sesiwn recordio Yr Ods yn Stiwdio Sain, Llandwrog. Yn sicr, mae’r albwm yma yn hir-ddisgwyliedig ymysg dilynwyr y band o Ogledd Cymru, gyda phawb yn edrych ymlaen i glywed faint o newid fydd na yn sŵn y band. Mae’r band wedi newid eu swn yn gyson ers i Griff a Gruff gychwyn y band yn 2007, gan ddatblygu o fod yn fand “giataraidd” i fod yn fand pop, gyda ‘synths’ yn amlwg iawn yn eu caneuon. Ond yn ôl y canwr a’r gitarydd, Griff Lynch, bydd elfennau o bob cyfnod yn hanes y band i’w clywed ar yr albwm newydd, fydd yn cael ei rhyddhau yn yr Hydref. Mae dylanwadau amlwg gan fandiau ‘Britpop’ y 90’au fel Pulp yn eu caneuon, fel rydym wedi gweld eisoes ar yr EP ddiweddar. Ond yn ôl Rhys Aneirin, chwaraewr ‘synths’, mae’r band wedi dangos chydig mwy o “balls” wrth greu yr albwm newydd, gan greu sŵn mwy “epic” nag o’r blaen.

  Pan gefais i’r cyfle i wrando ar rai o’r caneuon newydd fel “Troi a Throsi” yn cael eu hadeiladu, gam-wrth-gam, yn y stiwdio roedd hi’n amlwg fod Yr Ods, gyda chymorth y cynhyrchydd Dave Wrench – sydd wedi cynhyrchu albyms i fandiau poblogaidd fel Race Horses yn barod - yn parhau i ddatblygu fel band, ac yn sicr o gael cydnybyddiaeth gan gefnogwyr cerddoriaeth yng Nghymru a thu hwnt am flynyddoedd i ddod. Ond nid yw hynny’n beth newydd i’r band o gwbwl, gan eu bod nhw wedi llwyddo i adeiladu cefnogaeth yn rhai o wyliau mwyaf Prydain yn barod fel ‘Glastonbury’ a ‘Penwythnos Mawr Radio 1’ yn 2010. Ond, er gwaethaf hyn, mae Rhys yn credu mai gigs Maes B yn 2009 a 2010 oedd y rhai mae ef wedi eu mwynhau mwyaf: “O ran y gig ei hun, ma’n siwr mai Maes B yn Glyn Ebwy naethon ni fwynhau fwya’, achos odd ymateb y crowd yn briliant. Ond, ar y llaw arall, roedd y gig yn Bala, yn 2009, yr un mor dda a phwysig, achos dyna pryd odda ni’n teimlo ‘bod ni wedi cyrradd ar y sîn go iawn”. Er fod nifer y gigs wedi lleihau, gan fod y band yn ceisio cael safon yr albwm mor uchel a phosib, mae nhw yn parhau i lenwi clybiau pob tro mae nhw’n chwarae, petai nhw’n chwarae yng Nghlwb Ifor Bach a Nos Da, neu mewn clybiau yn Llundain.

   Fel nesh i ddeud yn gynharach, mae Yr Ods wedi chwarae yn Glastonbury, un o wyliau mwyaf y byd, ar ddwy achlysur, a hynny oherwydd eu bod nhw wedi llwyddo i ennill cefnogaeth Emily Eavis,  merch Michael Eavis, sefydlydd yr ŵyl. Yn yr ŵyl yn 2010, tra roedd Griff a Rhys yn crwydro cefn llwyfan, daethant ar draws aelodau y band gwerin Mumford and Sons yn chwarae pel-droed, gan ymuno am kick-about. Ond wrth ofyn sut siawns bysa’ ganddyn nhw yn erbyn bandiau eraill y SRG, ymateb Rhys, sydd yn ffanatic ar dim Dinas Bangor, oedd: “Dim llawar o chance i fod yn onast, er, ma’ Gruff Pritchard yn decent, ma’n mwynhau ei five-a-side.” A chan gadw at gwestiynna’ eitha’ ysgafn, fe wnes i ofyn i Griff a Rhys pa gerddor neu ganwr, byw neu farw, fysan nhw’n wedi ei weld yn ymuno â’r band, a’r un ateb gafwyd gan y ddau : Tich Gwilym , un o gitarwyr mwyaf enwog a thalentog yn hanes yr SRG.
  Mi fysa wedi bod yn ddiddorol clywed sut fysa ‘Tich’ wedi cyfrannu at swn y band. Ond wrth i’r dydd ddod i ben, roeddwn eisiau gwybod beth oedd i ddod nesaf i’r band prysur hwn. “Blaw am trio gorffan yr albym, ma gyna ni chydig o gigs dros yr haf, mewn llefydd fel Gŵyl Gwydir, Maes B, Gŵyl Gardd Goll a Sesiwn Fawr, ond fel arall, dani jest yn edrach ar y posibilrwydd o fynd ar daith i gyd-fynd efo rhyddhau y CD”. O’r hyn dwi wedi glywed o’r albwm hyd yn hyn, rwy’n gwybod bydd hi’n werth ei chlywed a’i phrynnu, a bydd pob gig dros yr haf yn aros yn y cof.

Am fwy o wybodaeth a newyddion diweddaraf gan y band yn bersonol, dilynwch “@yr_ods” ar Twitter.

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Yr Ods have certainly established themselves amongst the headlining band of the SRG. With songs such as 'Y Bel yn Rowlio', 'Cofio Chdi O'r Ysgol', 'Turn Around' & 'Fel Hyn am Byth' continually being played on the radio and on various TV programmes, the band has developed a large gathering of followers amongst the SRG. They are currently working on their first album, following the success of their EP, I caught up with Griff, Gruff, Rhys and both Osian, as they were nearing the end of the recording stage:

Rubbish, cartoons and lyrics. This was the sight as I walked into the recording studio for the new 'Yr Ods' album at 'Sain', Llandwrog. Certainly, this album is long-awaited amongst the followers of the band from North Wales, with everyone looking forward to hear how much of a change there will be in the sound of the music. Change has been quite regular for the band since Griff & Gruff formed the band in 2007, by developing from a "guitary" band to a brif-pop band, with synthesizers being very obvious in their music. But according to the singer and guitarist, Griff Lynch, different aspects from their entrie music collection will be combined on the album. which is set for release during the Autumn. There are obvious inspirations from Britpop band from the 90s, such as 'Pulp', in their songs, as we have already seen on the recent EP. But, according to Rhys, the synth player, they have shown much more 'balls' on this album, and have created a more 'epic' sound than before.

When I got the opportunity to listen to some of the new songs, such as 'Troi a Throsi', as they were developing, stage-by-stage, in the studio, it was obvious that Yr Ods, with assist from the producer, Dave Wrench - who has also produced albums for popular band such as Race Horses - were continually developing as a band, and are guaranteed to recieve more recoginition from fans within Wales and beyond, for years to come. But this is not a new thing for the band, as they have already managed to build a repoutation within some of the biggest festivals in Britain, such as Glasonbury and Radio 1's Big Weekend, in 2010.  But, although they have played at these massive festivals, Rhys believes that Maes B, both in 2009 and 2010, was the gigs he has enjoyed most: "Considering the gig itself, I think Maes B last year, in Ebbw Vale, was the one we enjoyed the most, because the crowd's reaction was amazing. But, the gig in Bala, in 2009, was as important for us beacuase that is when we truly felt that we had 'arrived' as a band." Although they have not been as busy over the past 6 months as they were during last summer, as the band has been trying to perfect the album to as higher a standar as possible, they continue to sell out their gigs, whether they are at Clwb Ifor Bach and Nos Da, or in clubs in London.

As I mentioned earlier, Yr Ods have played at Glastonbury, arguably the best festival in the world, and have done so on two occasions. This is due to the support they've received from Emily Eavis, Michael Eavis' daughter, the festival's fouder. Last year, as Griff and Rhys were wandering around the back-stage area, they stumbled apon members of Mumford and Sons, the popular folk band, playing football, and joined for a kick-about. But, asking how much of a chance they would stand against the other bands of the SRG, Rhys', a Bangor City fanatic, reckoned: "We wouldn't stand much of a chance to be honest, but Gruff Pritchard is decent, he enjoys a game of five-a-side." And to stay on the tracks of light-hearted questions, i asked Griff and Rhys which musician or singer, dead or alive, they would most like to see joining the band. Both gave the same answer: Tich Gwilym, one of the most legendary guitarist in the history of the SRG.
 
Certainly, it would have had been very interesting to hear Tich's contribution to the band. But, as the day drew to an end, I was really eager to know what was on the horizon for the band. "Except for trying to finish the album, we do have a few gigs over the summer, such as Gwyl Gwydir, Maes B, Gwyl Gardd Goll and Sesiwn Fawr, but otherwise, we are looking into the possibility of organizing a tour to launch the album." Of the sneak-peak that I have had so far, I know the album will be worth a listen and will definately be the must-purchase album of the year. I am pretty confident that all their gigs over the summer will be ever-so memorable.

For more information and the latest news from the band themselves, follow "@yr_ods" on Twitter.

ADOLYGIAD GIG/ GIG REVIEW: Race Horses - Base, Bangor 28/05/2011

Roedd hi'n sioc mawr i mi wrth glywed fod Alun Gaffey wedi rhoi'r gorau iddi fel aelod o fand Race Horses, a fyntau yn un o'r aelodau gwreiddiol. Ond er gwaethaf hynny, roeddwn yn edrych ymlaen i glywed sut roedden nhw am swnio hebddo, a sut bysai'r band yn dygymod wedi ei golli.

Roeddwn heb glywed Race Horses yn fyw ers Gwyl Gardd Goll 2010, a roeddwn yn pryderu i glywed y 'swn newydd' yma roeddwn wedi clywed gymaint amdano. Roedd Mei, Dyl a Gwion yn dal yn rhan o'r band, ond gyda dau wyneb ychwannegol, un ohonynt yn ferch, gan ychwannegu dyfnder newydd i'w cerddoriaeth. Gan ddilyn We Are Animal a Yucatan i'r llwyfan, roedd Base, sef clwb nos ar gyrion tywyll dref Bangor, yn teimlo yn llawer mwy cyffrous wrth ddisgwyl i pumawd poblogaidd i ddod ar y llwyfan. Roedd y band yn dal i ddefnyddio'r egni y maen't yn adnabyddus amdano, gan chwarae clasuron fel 'Pony' a 'Grangetown 02920', ond y caneuon newydd wnaeth fy nharo i fwyaf. Fel arfer, mae'n well gini ddod i adnabod caneuon dros CD cyn eu clywed nhw yn fyw, ond fe wnaeth y caneuon hyn fy nghipio o funud cyntaf y gig, hyd at y funud lle roeddent yn cerdded oddi ar y llwyfan, un fesul un.

Nid dyma oedd y Race Horses fel roeddwn wedi dod ei adnabod dros y ddwy flynedd ddiwethaf. Roeddent yn defnyddio 'synth' ychwannegol, offerynnau taro fel 'cowbells' a roedd hyd yn oed Mei, y chwaraewr bass a'r canwr, yn defnyddio rhywfaint o ddrwm bass. Fe gipwyd pawb yn y clwb gan y gerddoriaeth - ac am y tro cyntaf mewn gig 'SRG', fe roedd 'ravers' amlwg mewn tracsuits a baseball caps yn dawnsio ac yn mwynhau.

Yn sicr, tydw i methu disgwyl i glywed yr albwm newydd, sydd i'w ryddhau o fewn y ddau fis nesaf, ac i barhau i'w dilyn mewn gigiau ar draws Cymru.

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I must admit, I was shocked when I heard that Alun Gaffey, one of Race Horses' founding members, had decided to go his seperate ways. But, in spite of this, I was looking forward to hearing how they would sound without him, and if they would be able to cope!

I hadn't heard Race Horses in a live gig since Gwyl Gardd Goll last summer, and was apprehensively awaiting  to hear the 'new sound' of which I have heard so much about over the last few weeks. Mei. Dyl and Gwion were all familiarly part of the set-up, but there were two new faces - one being a girl - which added new depth in to their music. Following We Are Animal and Yucatan to the stage, Base, a night club in the dark parts on the outskirts of Bangor's city centre, was buzzing as the anticipated crowd were awaiting the popular headliners to take the stage - and certainly lit up this side of Bangor. The famous energy possessed by the band was still as strong as ever, as they belted out fans favourites such as 'Pony' and 'Grangetown 02920', but it was the new songs that really caught my attention. I usually prefer to get to know new songs by listening to them on a CD before hearing the live product, but these songs caught my attention from the minute the band took to the stage, to the minute when they all walked off to the familiar sound of feedback that we've heard so often at Race Horses gigs.

This wasn't the Race Horses I had come to familiarise myself with over the past two years. There was an extra synth, an extra percussion player and even Mei, the bassist and lead singer, played the drum base on one song. Everyone in the club was caught up by this piece of art - and for the first time in a Welsh Rock Scene gig, I saw hardcore ravers dancing along and really having a good time.

Certainly, I personally cannot wait to hear their new album, which is set for release within the upcoming two months, and to continue to follow them in gigs around Wales over the summer.

CYFWELIAD / INTERVIEW: Osian Gwynedd - Sibrydion

Mae Osian Gwynedd wedi mwynhau cyfnod llwyddiannus iawn yn y byd cerddorol, gan fod yn aelod o’r grwpiau hynod boblogaidd Big Leaves a’r Sibrydion, yn ogystal a chwarae â rhai o fandiau byd-enwog o Gymru megis Catatonia a’r Super Furry Animals.

Enw: Osian Gwynedd

Swydd: Cerddor Hunangyflogedig

Sut fath o ddylanwad, os o gwbl, gafodd dy gyfnod mewn addysg ar dy ddiddordeb mewn cerddoriaeth:

 Cychwynnais i yn Ysgol Waunfawr , a mae’n rhaid fi ddeud, sw ni’n synnu os oes na ysgol well i gael cyfle neu brofiad i ddechra chwarae cerddoriaeth. ’Odd pawb yn cael dechra efo recordyrs, ac yn symud mlaen i melodicas, fflwits, clarinets a ballu - offerynna da ni yn dal i’w defnyddio fel band hyd heddiw!  Tra yn ysgol Dre, roedd hyd yn oed fwy o gyfleuon. Yn hoff athrawes i oedd Menai Williams, a dwi’n cofio yn y flwyddyn gyntaf, hi’n son am nodau fel lliwiau gwahanol. Wow - “Far out”!!

Roedd holl aelodau’r Big Leaves yn ddigyblion yn Syr Hugh Owen. O eddach chi’n ffrindia yn yr ysgol?

Oedda ni’n  ffrindia ers cyn cof, achos bo ni gyd wedi ein dwyn fynu yn Waunfawr. Ddechreuo ni fand o’r enw “Bron a Methu”, enw sal I ddweud y gwir, yn tua 8 oed, oedd yn beth hollol naturiol i ni ar y pryd. Y drefn fel arfer oedd chwara “man-hunt” yn yr haf, a practeisio efo’r band yn festri Waun pan oedd hi’n bwrw! Da ni gyd dal yn ffrindia mawr!

Unrhyw atgofion neu storiau diddorol am dy amser yn yr ysgol? Athrawon?

Rhy niferus - a fyw i mi achwyn am neb!!

Fuest ti’n cymryd rhan yn Eisteddfodau’r Ysgol o gwbl? Pa fath o gystadlaethau?

Dwi’m yn gallu adrodd, actio, na chanu, felly nes i gadw at gystadlu ar offerynnau cerddorol!

Oeddet ti mewn band yn yr ysgol?

 Mi fues i’n myrrath efo ambell i fand gwahanol. Yn ogystal a Beganifs, ddoth criw o ffrindia ysgol at ein gilydd i ffurfio band o’r enw “Wil Gignoeth a’i Wallgofion” oedd yn lond ceg I’w ddweud, ag yn uffar o hwyl. Escgiws oedd o i gael cambyhafio wrth edrych ‘nol!

Rwyt ti wedi chwarae gyda cerddorion a bandiau byd enwog, ond pa gig yw’r mwyaf cofiadwy i ti yn personol?

Anodd deud pa gig sy’n sefyll allan achos bo nw’n gallu amrywio cymaint. Ond o ran lleoliad a maint, mae’n debyg mai chwarae fel aelod o “The Peth” yn cefnogi Oasis yn Stadiwm y Mileniwm sy’n sefyll allan.

Pwy oeddet ti’n ei edmygu pan yn ifanc?

Pan ddechreuish i fynd i gigs, mi o’n i’n ffodus fod na gymaint o fandia cymraeg gwych o gwmpas lle. Rhai fel Ffa Coffi Pawb, Anhrefn, Y Cyrff ayyb. ‘Odd eu cerddoriaeth nw’n sefyll allan o gymharu a unrhywbeth saesneg o’n i wedi ei glywed, a felly, hein oedd y bobol o’n i’n edrych fynu atyn nhw.

Pa fath o steil sydd ar dy gerddoriaeth?

Sgen i’m syniad be di sdeil fy ngherddoriaeth! Peth da am fod yn hunangyflogedig ydi’r siawns o weithio ar brosiectau  gwahanol. Dwi di cyfansoddi ar gyfer cwmnia theatr a theledu, a ma anghenion y gwaith yn amrwyio gyda phob joban. Felly, mae’n well peidio cyfyngu fy hun i un sdeil neu arddull.

Llwyddiant cerddorol mwyaf?

Dwn i’m!! Anodd cymharu. Ond mi nesh i fwynhau gweithio efo Theatr Y Fran Wen ar gynhyrchiad o’r enw  “Johnny Delaney” .  Y mwynhad pennaf ydi gweld ymateb y gynulleidfa a fod y gerddoriaeth, boed pa mor fach, wedi cael argraff.

Beth sydd gin ti ar y gweill ar y funud?

Ma Mei, ym mrawd, a finna, ‘di bod yn sgwennu albym newydd i Sibrydion, a da ni wrthi ar y brosoes recordio ar hyn o bryd.

Ar ba raglenni teledu mae dy gerddoriaeth i’w clywed?

Ambell i engraifft ydi rhaglenni “Pethe”, “Rhyfedd-Od”, sig yr Eisteddfod Genedlaethol, ac i ddod yn fuan, miwsig i ddrama newydd S4C o’r enw “Gwaith Cartref”.

Dy gan orau di yn bersonol yr ydwyt wedi ei chyfansoddi?

Y nesa gobeithio!

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Osian Gwynedd has enjoyed a very successful career within the music industry, being a member of popular bands such as Sibrydion and Big Leaves, as well as playing for world-famous bands from Wales, such as Catatonia and Super Furry Animals.

Name: Osian Gwynedd

Profession: Self-Employed Musician

How much of an influence did your time in education have on your interest in music?
I started of at Ysgol Waunfawr, and I must admit, I very much doubt if there is a better school to have an opportunity or experience of starting to play musical instruments. Everyone got to start of with recorders, before moving on to melodicas, flutes, clarinets etc. - instruments we still use today as a band! While at Ysgol Syr Hugh Owen, Caernarfon, I had even more opportunities. My favourite teacher was Mrs Menai Williams, and I still remember how she taught us the keys as being colours. Wow - far out!

All of Big Leaves' members were students at Syr Hugh Owen. Were you all friends during your time at school?
We've been friends for as long as I can remember - as we were raised in Waunfawr. We started a band called 'Bron a Methu' ('Almost Failing'), a terrible name in truth, when we were 8 years old as it was a totally natural thing for us at the time. I remember the order - playing man-hunt during the summer, and practice with the band when it rained. We're all still good friend today.

Any memories or interesting stories from schools? What about the teachers?
To many to name - and I dare not complain about anyone.

Did you take part in any Eisteddfod competitions during your time at schools? What type of competitions?
I can't act, sing or recitate - therefore I only took part in instrumental competitions.

Were you in a band in school?
I experiemented with many bands while at school. On top of 'Beganifs', a few of us came together to form a band called 'Wil Gignoeth a'i Wallgofion' - which is a bit of a tounge twister and was a lot of fun. Looking back, I think it was just an excuse to misbehave in truth!

You've had the opportunity to play with world-famous artists and bands, but which gig was the most memorable for you personally?
It's hard to pick one gig out, as they vary so much. But considering location and size, playing with Rhys Ifans' 'The Peth', supporting Oasis, at Millenium Stadium does stand out.

Who did you admire when you were young?
When i started going to see gigs, I was lucky that there was so many excellent welsh bands around. I liked to watch bands such as 'Ffa Coffi Pawb', 'Yr Anhrefn', 'Y Cyrff' etc. Their music stood out so much to compare with anything english I had heard, therefore these were the people I looked up to.

What is your personal style of music?
I have no idea what is my style! What is great about being self-employed is the opportunity to work on different projects. I've composed fod theatr companies and television programmes, so each tasks have different needs. It is, therefore, important not to restrict myself to one particular steil or genre.

What is your biggest music achievement?
I don't know. It's hard to compare. But I did enjoy working with 'Theatr y Fran Wen' on their production, "Johnny Delaney". The biggest enjoyment is seeing the audience's reaction and that the music, however big it is, has had an impact.

What is on the horizon for you?
My brother, Mei, and I have been writing a new album for 'Sibrydion', and we are currently in the recording process.

On what television programmes can we hear your music?
There are a lot of programmes on S4C, such as 'Pethe', 'Rhyfedd-Od', 'Eisteddfod Genedlaethol' and an upcoming drama, 'Gwaith Cartref'.

What is the best song that you have composed?
The next one, hopefully!