How to make it in a band in north Wales

The Joy Formidable's Ritzy: "I think it is a complete myth that the whole industry is based in London."

You don't have to go to London to make it as a band. In fact, any town in north Wales will do just as well.

That's the view of Ritzy Bryan and Rhydian Dafydd, also known as The Joy Formidable, and they should know because it was being stuck for things to do while growing up in Mold that inspired them to write and perform music.

In an interview for BBC Radio 1's BBC Introducing in Wales with Bethan Elfyn, the pair revealed what motivated them to become musicians.

"Living in north Wales and having that sense of isolation can either make you more hungry and create that passion and resolve to get your music out there or it can breed apathy," says Ritzy.

"Ultimately, I think it is a complete myth that the whole industry is based in London. I whole heartedly believe that if you believe in what you do and you are passionate and you are writing good songs and a good live performer, I believe you can do it from anywhere."

Rhydian explained that the band's partial relocation to London was for practical reasons and, as an artist, it's good to find different sources of inspiration.

But returning to north Wales is very important for the pair who believe it's at the root of their music. So much so that they plan to write an album based in the region.

"It's an amazing place to return to," said Ritzy.

Rhydian explained there were some vital ingredients needed if a new band was to survive in the regions.

"You do need a lot of people working for the same goal - promoters and enough venues," he said. "And passion," reckons Ritzy, "because there is not going to be a great financial gain if you're going to be a promoter or if you're in a band at the beginning.

"But there's an awful lot of people in north Wales that are involved in a scene like that.

"There are an enormous amount of young people hungry to get out there and meet like-mined people."

Meanwhile, BBC Radio Wales' Adam Walton spoke with Deeside promoter Dave Mounter who explained how hard young bands can find it when trying get get gigs or help and support.

"Apart from anything else, being in a band doesn't just teach you to play music," says Dave. It also teaches you to sell yourselves, to organise yourselves, to practice - which is self discipline. You have to organise finances to pay for practice facilities.

"And the best bands are those that are disciplined and really work at it."