With this weekend marking the second Newport Music Trail, this week’s Matchday Playlist features plenty of artists you can catch at this year’s event. We’ve included music from Ernie Emmanuel, Half Happy, Ratoon, Airflo, Joe Kelly and more.
Caneuon by Ynys
Ynys is a Welsh indie and psych-pop project formed by Aberystwyth musician Dylan Hughes, previously of Race Horses and Radio Luxembourg. The band is known for a distinctive, dreamy sound that blends hazy, melancholic vocal harmonies with vintage textures, including ’70s string machines and ’80s synths, alongside fuzzy guitars and off-kilter pop melodies.
They have released two albums, with their second nominated for the Welsh Music Prize and voted 2025 Welsh Language Album of the Year at the National Eisteddfod. Ynys performs at the Corn Exchange at 7.30pm.
Home Is Where The Heart Is by Josh Hicks
Josh Hicks is a rising Welsh singer-songwriter known for his soulful, jazz-infused pop sound and expressive vocals. Emerging from South Wales, he has built a reputation as one of the UK’s most promising new voices in contemporary soul-pop.
His breakthrough came in 2021 when he won the Open Mic UK competition, following in the footsteps of artists including Birdy and Lola Young. With growing industry support and sold-out shows, Hicks continues to build momentum. He performs at John Frost Square at 5.15pm.
‘Till Morning Comes by YAANG
YAANG is an emerging Manchester-based electronic post-punk trio known for its chaotic energy and genre-blending sound. Formed in Salford, the band has become a notable name in the UK underground scene.
Often described as genre-fluid, YAANG combines elements of post-punk, synth-driven electronic music, indie rock and alt-pop, with experimental influences. Their sound has drawn comparisons to Talking Heads and Devo, with a modern edge. They performed on Friday at the Corn Exchange.
