The title of ‘underground Welsh-language experimental electronic dance DJ duo’ is a niche one to say the least, but as bizarre as it may sound, Roughion really make it work for them. Gwion James and Steffan Woodruff are Roughion, hailing from Aberystwyth but now based in Cardiff. This DJ duo craft all kinds of experimental and exciting dance music, ranging from rave-worthy jams to ethereal late-night remixes of Welsh folk music. The way that Roughion embrace the heritage and sound of the Welsh language in their sampling really sets them apart; curiously, the ancient language works perfectly in the beats they create.

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Having been awarded the prestigious title of "Wales's answer to the Chemical Brothers" by BBC Wales, this talented twosome have embarked on a quest to bless us all with the wonders of the Welsh dance scene. Their single ‘Ti & Me’ starts off slow, and grows into an atmospheric, echoing dancefloor track. Other surprising gems can be found on their Soundcloud; such as an hour-long mix made for BBC Radio Cymru which is peppered with Welsh-language samples over compelling dance beats.

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The 8th of July 2017 sees the official release of their next two remixes, a 2am and a 6am version of Oldus Fawn’s song ‘Hurting For Someone’. The tracks come about after a “drunken chat with Oldus Fawn […] about him not getting enough coverage”; as good a reason as any to produce two such great tracks! The 2am version is centred around a deep bassline that makes the listener need to dance, evoking a vivid image of a packed club in the early hours of the morning. In comparison, Roughion slow down their sample for the 6am version, and strip down the track. The beat is complimented by a focus on the saxophone counter-melody, and the relaxed track suggests a room full of tired party-goers, swaying in sync until the sun rises.

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Roughion were recently signed to Libertino Records, a label promoting Welsh talent. Hopefully this means we’ll be able to see even more from them soon! If you happen to be in Cardiff when they’re playing, remember to go and enjoy their dance vibes, and enjoy their music at any time on their Soundcloud account.

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To listen to their brand new tracks use this link: www.roughion.com/