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0:00:03 > 0:00:06- I'm at Sesiwn Fawr Dolgellau - to hear this week's artist.
0:00:07 > 0:00:09- I've never heard her sing live.
0:00:09 > 0:00:13- I'm looking forward to it - because she has quite a voice.
0:00:19 > 0:00:23- She knows one of my heroes, - Tom Jones.
0:00:29 > 0:00:33- She's from Caernarfon, - and she sings solo and with a band.
0:00:33 > 0:00:35- Today, she's with the band.
0:00:36 > 0:00:38- Her voice is world-class.
0:00:38 > 0:00:42- She has incredible control of it, - and the tone is perfect.
0:00:43 > 0:00:45- She has a special - and distinctive voice.
0:00:45 > 0:00:47- It's always lovely - to listen to her.
0:00:48 > 0:00:51- Her voice is amazing - and she's really cool.
0:00:51 > 0:00:55- Alys Williams's voice - is rich and sexy.
0:00:59 > 0:01:03- Yes, this week's guest - is the talented Alys Williams.
0:01:06 > 0:01:07- Hello, Alys, how are you?
0:01:08 > 0:01:09- Are you alright?
0:01:09 > 0:01:10- It's nice to meet you.
0:01:11 > 0:01:13- Thanks for accepting the invitation.
0:01:13 > 0:01:14- Thanks for accepting the invitation.- - Thank you for the invitation.
0:01:15 > 0:01:16- I'm looking forward to it.
0:01:17 > 0:01:18- I feel as if I've made it now!
0:01:18 > 0:01:21- I feel as if I've made it now!- - Don't be daft!
0:01:21 > 0:01:24- You've sung with Tom Jones!
0:01:25 > 0:01:27- Tom Jones was one of the judges...
0:01:28 > 0:01:32- ..when Alys appeared - on The Voice back in 2012.
0:01:33 > 0:01:35- She's now a professional singer...
0:01:36 > 0:01:39- ..and has developed - her own unique vocal style.
0:01:39 > 0:01:44- It'll be interesting to see - how our voices sound together.
0:01:44 > 0:01:48- If voices are really different, - it does sometimes work well.
0:01:49 > 0:01:51- I'm looking forward - to the duets now.
0:01:52 > 0:01:56- # And you believe in dreams
0:02:02 > 0:02:07- # And you believe in dreams #
0:02:10 > 0:02:14- Talking of dreams, it's my dream - to sing a duet with Alys Williams.
0:02:15 > 0:02:18- But this musical journey - is set to be an adventure.
0:02:18 > 0:02:22- This is the only music - that Osian has given me.
0:02:24 > 0:02:27- We'll find out how we get on - as we go, I think.
0:02:27 > 0:02:29- A different way of working.
0:02:30 > 0:02:34- Alys and arranger Osian Williams - have been close musical partners...
0:02:35 > 0:02:38- ..since first working together - on Can I Gymru.
0:02:38 > 0:02:41- Rhys Gwynfor and I - were asked to adjudicate.
0:02:41 > 0:02:45- Alys was adjudicating too, - and that's when we met.
0:02:45 > 0:02:47- After that, we clearly clicked.
0:02:47 > 0:02:51- I wrote Llwytho'r Gwn - with Candelas for her.
0:02:51 > 0:02:53- That was incredible.
0:02:53 > 0:02:55- # Shadows in the night?
0:02:55 > 0:02:59- # Do you still listen - to the old songs?
0:02:59 > 0:03:01- # The old songs?
0:03:01 > 0:03:05- # Hero
0:03:08 > 0:03:09- # Load the gun #
0:03:10 > 0:03:15- More recently, we've started - to work as Alys Williams's band.
0:03:15 > 0:03:19- There's lots of new music - on the way, definitely.
0:03:22 > 0:03:26- Talking of new music, - we start work on Alys's duet.
0:03:27 > 0:03:30- Her choice is Gerfydd Fy Nwylo Gwyn.
0:03:32 > 0:03:36- It was written - and performed by Twm Morys...
0:03:36 > 0:03:40- ..for a charity record in 1995.
0:03:43 > 0:03:46- I have no idea - what you're going to do.
0:03:46 > 0:03:48- I'm not sure myself yet.
0:03:48 > 0:03:51- Osian keeps saying, - "We'll sort it out there."
0:03:51 > 0:03:54- She does know what she's doing.
0:03:54 > 0:03:57- I worked with Osian - on the songs last night.
0:03:57 > 0:04:00- I don't read music at all.
0:04:00 > 0:04:03- I listen with my ear - and try new ideas.
0:04:03 > 0:04:07- I'm looking forward to it - but I am quite nervous.
0:04:07 > 0:04:11- # By my innocent hands
0:04:11 > 0:04:15- # The most innocent hands ever
0:04:16 > 0:04:21- # Lift me from here, - from my father's house #
0:04:21 > 0:04:23- I don't sing like Rhys at all.
0:04:23 > 0:04:26- Our voices are totally different.
0:04:27 > 0:04:29- Rhys has an incredible voice.
0:04:29 > 0:04:31- Mam says it's like honey.
0:04:31 > 0:04:35- I don't know how our voices will - meld, but I hope it sounds nice.
0:04:36 > 0:04:41- # And people in their place #
0:04:43 > 0:04:47- # Look at the wall shaking
0:04:48 > 0:04:51- # Look at the children running
0:04:52 > 0:04:55- # Look at the woman with both hands
0:04:55 > 0:04:59- # Trying to help them all
0:04:59 > 0:05:03- # Until someone like us passes by
0:05:04 > 0:05:07- # Someone like us passes by
0:05:07 > 0:05:13- # Someone like us passes by- - # Woo-ooo-ooo-ooo #
0:05:14 > 0:05:15- Do you like it?
0:05:15 > 0:05:17- Do you like it?- - The words, I love it.
0:05:17 > 0:05:21- I sang it at a concert years ago, - but in the same pitch as Twm.
0:05:21 > 0:05:23- It was really low.
0:05:23 > 0:05:26- I remember thinking, - this is a bad idea!
0:05:27 > 0:05:28- But it was too late by then!
0:05:31 > 0:05:36- When she's not in the studio, - Alys loves cooking for friends.
0:05:36 > 0:05:38- I was invited to join in the fun.
0:05:39 > 0:05:43- It was an unusual menu for me.
0:05:43 > 0:05:47- I'm looking forward to tasting - vegan food for the first time.
0:05:48 > 0:05:50- I can hear someone at the back.
0:05:52 > 0:05:53- Hello!
0:05:53 > 0:05:54- Hello!
0:05:55 > 0:05:56- Are you ready?!
0:05:58 > 0:05:59- How are you all?
0:05:59 > 0:06:01- Are you ready for a party?
0:06:03 > 0:06:05- I've got your favourite.
0:06:09 > 0:06:11- I can smell the aroma from here.
0:06:12 > 0:06:13- Wow!
0:06:14 > 0:06:15- It smells nice.
0:06:15 > 0:06:17- Very good.
0:06:17 > 0:06:18- What have you got?
0:06:19 > 0:06:25- I've made a chilli, - and this is a veg type of dish.
0:06:25 > 0:06:29- And a less spicy chilli - for people who don't like it hot.
0:06:31 > 0:06:35- Apart from singing, Alys's ambition - is to open her own restaurant.
0:06:36 > 0:06:39- Judging by the aroma here, - I'd be a regular client.
0:06:40 > 0:06:44- I've got salsa, home-made hummus, - guacamole and what have you.
0:06:44 > 0:06:45- You've been busy.
0:06:45 > 0:06:47- I enjoy it, Rhys.
0:06:47 > 0:06:49- I've had a lovely day today.
0:06:49 > 0:06:52- I really have. Do you want a drink?
0:06:52 > 0:06:53- I really have. Do you want a drink?- - Oh, yes.
0:06:53 > 0:06:55- I've been asking what you like.
0:06:55 > 0:06:57- I've been asking what you like.- - Have you? What did people say?
0:06:57 > 0:07:00- Yes, that's it. Champion!
0:07:00 > 0:07:03- Lager top. I'm easy to please!
0:07:03 > 0:07:07- I did ask around.
0:07:07 > 0:07:08- I did ask around.- - Great!
0:07:09 > 0:07:13- As well as being a musician, - Alys is also a full-time mother...
0:07:13 > 0:07:16- ..to eight-year-old twins - Catrin and Gruff.
0:07:17 > 0:07:20- In no time, another child - had joined in the fun.
0:07:22 > 0:07:26- Once we got talking, - there was no stopping us.
0:07:26 > 0:07:28- One of each.
0:07:28 > 0:07:30- One of each.- - A bit of everything.
0:07:30 > 0:07:32- Your plate's nearly full.
0:07:32 > 0:07:33- You're right.
0:07:33 > 0:07:34- It is.
0:07:34 > 0:07:37- I don't have room for everything.
0:07:38 > 0:07:41- There are olives there, - and you could fit those on.
0:07:42 > 0:07:43- OK. There?
0:07:45 > 0:07:46- Like that?
0:07:49 > 0:07:51- You don't have to do - what we tell you.
0:07:53 > 0:07:56- There's less food than usual, Alys!
0:07:56 > 0:07:57- Is there, Osian?
0:07:59 > 0:08:02- You don't get Rhys Meirion - coming for food every day!
0:08:03 > 0:08:05- What are you trying to say?
0:08:05 > 0:08:07- I've made an effort!
0:08:16 > 0:08:18- What do you think, Rhys?
0:08:18 > 0:08:19- What do you think, Rhys?- - Fantastic!
0:08:19 > 0:08:20- Do you like it?
0:08:29 > 0:08:33- I think I might have overdone it - with this vegan feast!
0:08:35 > 0:08:38- Blimey, I'm absolutely stuffed.
0:08:38 > 0:08:41- Me too! And there's pudding.
0:08:41 > 0:08:42- Me too! And there's pudding.- - No!?
0:08:42 > 0:08:44- I'll make room for pudding.
0:08:44 > 0:08:46- Have you tried the cocktail?
0:08:47 > 0:08:48- Yes.
0:08:48 > 0:08:49- It's nice.
0:08:50 > 0:08:51- Iechyd da!
0:08:51 > 0:08:52- Iechyd da!- - Iechyd da!
0:08:53 > 0:08:55- Why the naughty laugh?
0:08:55 > 0:08:57- Because I know how strong it is!
0:08:59 > 0:09:05- With Alys Williams - and Osian Candelas at the party...
0:09:05 > 0:09:08- ..it wasn't long - before a guitar appeared.
0:09:08 > 0:09:11- # I asked the robin - where he got his red coat
0:09:11 > 0:09:13- # And here's the answer I got
0:09:14 > 0:09:16- # Mam made me a coat
0:09:16 > 0:09:18- # From a piece of the sky above
0:09:18 > 0:09:22- # When the sun was setting
0:09:22 > 0:09:26- # La la la la la, la la la la la la
0:09:26 > 0:09:30- # La la la la la la la
0:09:30 > 0:09:31- # Mam made me a coat
0:09:31 > 0:09:34- # From a piece of the sky above
0:09:34 > 0:09:39- # When the sun was setting #
0:09:44 > 0:09:48- It was time - to say thanks for my meal.
0:09:48 > 0:09:52- I've heard that Myfanwy - was your grandfather's favourite.
0:09:52 > 0:09:53- Yes.
0:09:53 > 0:09:56- Osh and I are going to sing it now.
0:09:56 > 0:09:57- Osh and I are going to sing it now.- - Are you?
0:09:57 > 0:09:58- Don't, I'll cry.
0:09:58 > 0:09:59- Let's try it.
0:10:00 > 0:10:01- I'll try.
0:10:06 > 0:10:12- # Why does malice, Oh Myfanwy
0:10:12 > 0:10:20- # Now burn so brightly - in those glowering eyes
0:10:20 > 0:10:27- # Why do your gentle cheeks, - Oh Myfanwy
0:10:27 > 0:10:35- # Not blush at my desperate cries
0:10:35 > 0:10:43- # Forget thee - all the vows of passion
0:10:44 > 0:10:51- # You made to me, - Oh fairest maid
0:10:51 > 0:11:02- # Give me your hand - my fair Myfanwy
0:11:03 > 0:11:17- # "Goodbye" - is all that can be said #
0:11:19 > 0:11:22- Hey, good chords.
0:11:27 > 0:11:28- Your turn.
0:11:29 > 0:11:31- I can't. I'm crying!
0:11:34 > 0:11:38- You will hear Alys Williams singing - in part two...
0:11:39 > 0:11:41- ..and me as never heard before.
0:11:42 > 0:11:43- .
0:11:46 > 0:11:46- Subtitles
0:11:46 > 0:11:48- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:11:49 > 0:11:51- Anyone who has heard her sing...
0:11:52 > 0:11:55- ..can tell that music - comes naturally to Alys Williams.
0:11:56 > 0:11:58- But to hear - about the performing side...
0:11:58 > 0:12:03- ..we met at Pontio in Bangor, - where Theatr Gwynedd once stood.
0:12:04 > 0:12:06- Have you seen this statue?
0:12:06 > 0:12:09- I've seen a photo of it, - and I've passed it.
0:12:11 > 0:12:13- What's the connection?
0:12:13 > 0:12:15- What's the connection?- - This is Taid Berllan.
0:12:15 > 0:12:17- Your grandfather? No.
0:12:17 > 0:12:21- The pieces are starting - to fall into place now...
0:12:21 > 0:12:23- ..about your artistic side.
0:12:24 > 0:12:27- Taid Berllan to Alys, - but to others...
0:12:27 > 0:12:30- ..Wilbert Lloyd Roberts, - father of the Welsh theatre.
0:12:31 > 0:12:32- In the late 1960s...
0:12:32 > 0:12:37- ..he founded the first - professional Welsh theatre company.
0:12:39 > 0:12:41- But he was Taid to me.
0:12:41 > 0:12:43- But he was Taid to me.- - Yes, exactly.
0:12:43 > 0:12:46- He was also behind Theatr Gwynedd.
0:12:48 > 0:12:52- He was an exceptional man, - and you must be proud of him.
0:12:53 > 0:12:56- I'm glad that this sculpture - is here to commemorate him.
0:12:57 > 0:12:59- What's on the back?
0:12:59 > 0:13:01- Oh, yes, this is nice.
0:13:01 > 0:13:03- I remember this englyn.
0:13:03 > 0:13:07- "A literary man behind the curtain, - he gave us his thrilling dream
0:13:07 > 0:13:11- "A bright beam, and our stage - was filled with his light."
0:13:11 > 0:13:13- Do you have memories of him?
0:13:14 > 0:13:15- How old were you when he died?
0:13:15 > 0:13:17- How old were you when he died?- - I was nine.
0:13:17 > 0:13:19- I have lovely memories of him.
0:13:19 > 0:13:23- I remember laughing a lot, - he was brilliant with children.
0:13:24 > 0:13:25- He loved gardening.
0:13:26 > 0:13:29- I remember, - in one part of the garden...
0:13:29 > 0:13:32- ..he let the grass grow - really, really long.
0:13:33 > 0:13:36- He went through it with a mower - and made a kind of maze.
0:13:36 > 0:13:40- I remember running through it - as a child, unable to see anything.
0:13:41 > 0:13:44- He knew what children would enjoy.
0:13:44 > 0:13:46- That's how his mind worked.
0:13:47 > 0:13:48- He was an exceptional man.
0:13:48 > 0:13:49- He was an exceptional man.- - Stay there. Don't move.
0:13:53 > 0:13:54- There is a similarity.
0:13:55 > 0:13:56- Do you think so?
0:13:57 > 0:14:02- I wanted to hear more - about Alys's childhood.
0:14:02 > 0:14:06- Do you remember the first time...
0:14:06 > 0:14:09- ..that you sang as a small child?
0:14:09 > 0:14:11- I don't remember this...
0:14:11 > 0:14:15- ..but Mam says, - and I do believe her, obviously...
0:14:15 > 0:14:17- ..that I sang before I talked.
0:14:18 > 0:14:21- I remember singing - whenever relatives called by.
0:14:23 > 0:14:26- There are loads of photos - of me singing.
0:14:26 > 0:14:28- I'd perform at every opportunity.
0:14:29 > 0:14:34- Did you compete in the Urdd - when you were at school?
0:14:34 > 0:14:38- I won through to the main stage - when I was quite young.
0:14:38 > 0:14:41- I've never talked about this before.
0:14:41 > 0:14:43- I got very nervous and began to cry.
0:14:44 > 0:14:45- That put me off for years.
0:14:46 > 0:14:49- I've suffered with nerves - before singing for years.
0:14:50 > 0:14:52- I've learnt to ride it out now.
0:14:52 > 0:14:53- Once I start singing, I open out.
0:14:53 > 0:14:56- Once I start singing, I open out.- - Those minutes before going on.
0:14:57 > 0:14:58- I've been in operas...
0:15:00 > 0:15:05- ..where I've heard other singers - in the dressing rooms vomiting...
0:15:05 > 0:15:07- ..before going on.
0:15:07 > 0:15:11- I used to be as nervous as that, - but I'm not like it at all now.
0:15:11 > 0:15:16- When the audience responds well - after the first song, that helps.
0:15:17 > 0:15:19- Yes. Yes, it does.
0:15:20 > 0:15:22- It's OK after that.
0:15:22 > 0:15:24- It's OK after that.- - You're away then.
0:15:24 > 0:15:29- And away we went to tackle - Alys's duet, Gerfydd Fy Nwylo Gwyn.
0:15:30 > 0:15:32- # Let me see the world
0:15:32 > 0:15:36- # As I have never seen it #
0:15:36 > 0:15:38- I try to Alysify songs.
0:15:38 > 0:15:40- That's what I call it.
0:15:40 > 0:15:43- Working on a song - and making it suit me...
0:15:43 > 0:15:48- ..to see what comes out naturally, - riffs, what sounds good.
0:15:50 > 0:15:56- I must admit, watching Alys - made me think how I should sing.
0:15:57 > 0:16:01- # Let me see the homes
0:16:01 > 0:16:05- # Where the curtains are all closed
0:16:05 > 0:16:12- # Let me see the sun - when it's not summer #
0:16:13 > 0:16:16- I'm drawing my voice back - and going close to the mic.
0:16:16 > 0:16:18- Trying to match?
0:16:18 > 0:16:19- I'll stay down there.
0:16:19 > 0:16:20- I'll stay down there.- - That worked.
0:16:20 > 0:16:22- It's lovely, like honey.
0:16:22 > 0:16:24- It's lovely, like honey.- - I'll stay down and do it like that.
0:16:25 > 0:16:27- I've never heard that range before.
0:16:28 > 0:16:29- I didn't know you had it.
0:16:29 > 0:16:30- I didn't know you had it.- - It was stunning.
0:16:30 > 0:16:32- Something weird happened there.
0:16:33 > 0:16:35- I've never sung like that before.
0:16:35 > 0:16:40- It was clear when we rehearsed - and started to record...
0:16:41 > 0:16:44- ..that my usual voice - wouldn't suit the song.
0:16:45 > 0:16:48- I listened to Alys - drawing everything back.
0:16:49 > 0:16:51- The Alysisms.
0:16:51 > 0:16:53- It's the total opposite...
0:16:53 > 0:16:57- ..of how we classical singers - are trained to sing.
0:16:57 > 0:17:01- Rhys Meirion - as you've never heard him before.
0:17:01 > 0:17:03- We'll see how it goes.
0:17:04 > 0:17:08- Dear me, that Rhys Meirion, - not supporting his voice.
0:17:10 > 0:17:13- You don't need to listen to them.
0:17:13 > 0:17:14- You've joined us now!
0:17:14 > 0:17:15- You've joined us now!- - The dark side!
0:17:18 > 0:17:22- I may not have crossed fully, - but I'm on a rock-and-roll journey.
0:17:23 > 0:17:25- I'm on my way to Stiwdio Drwm - in Llanllyfni.
0:17:26 > 0:17:31- I've been invited to hear Alys - and the band recording a new EP.
0:17:32 > 0:17:36- The line-up features - four well-known musicians.
0:17:36 > 0:17:39- They've been together - for over a year...
0:17:39 > 0:17:44- ..and a busy summer included - the Pavilion gig at the Eisteddfod.
0:17:44 > 0:17:49- I feel very privileged - to be able to watch them recording.
0:17:50 > 0:17:51- Who do we have here?
0:17:51 > 0:17:56- Branwen and Osian, you're siblings, - in case people didn't know.
0:17:56 > 0:17:58- Aled, you're on the bass...
0:17:58 > 0:18:02- ..and Gwion on drums, - and you're Elin Fflur's brother.
0:18:02 > 0:18:04- You've known each other for years.
0:18:04 > 0:18:06- You've known each other for years.- - Yes, through gigging.
0:18:06 > 0:18:10- That's why it comes easy - for us to play together.
0:18:10 > 0:18:12- We all get on so well.
0:18:12 > 0:18:15- It's easy to make music together.
0:18:17 > 0:18:23- # He was smiling at me
0:18:24 > 0:18:27- # But the truth was burning me #
0:18:27 > 0:18:29- She might give the impression...
0:18:30 > 0:18:33- ..singing live, that these - vocal tones just happen.
0:18:34 > 0:18:37- But she puts so much thought - into the parts that she sings.
0:18:38 > 0:18:40- People don't realize the work...
0:18:40 > 0:18:44- ..that goes into the vocal phrasing - as well as the music composition...
0:18:44 > 0:18:47- ..and she takes it so seriously.
0:18:52 > 0:18:53- Very good.
0:18:54 > 0:18:55- That was perfect.
0:18:56 > 0:19:02- I also heard about the first track - that the band performed together.
0:19:02 > 0:19:05- # I get up in the evening #
0:19:05 > 0:19:10- We recorded Yr Un Hen Ddyn - in an Eisteddfod pop-up studio.
0:19:10 > 0:19:12- We did that in one take.
0:19:13 > 0:19:17- It felt so right, it felt perfect.
0:19:17 > 0:19:19- It probably wasn't.
0:19:19 > 0:19:22- That gets a good response - when we play it live.
0:19:23 > 0:19:28- How different is singing solo - to singing with a band?
0:19:29 > 0:19:32- There's no comparison. - I feel better on stage.
0:19:32 > 0:19:34- I don't have to worry about them.
0:19:34 > 0:19:39- It feels like one sound, - and not all eyes are on me.
0:19:40 > 0:19:45- It gives me confidence - and I much prefer being in a band.
0:19:45 > 0:19:48- I can feel vulnerable singing solo.
0:19:49 > 0:19:51- I'm not sure if I enjoy it.
0:19:51 > 0:19:54- But with the band, - I really enjoy myself.
0:19:54 > 0:19:57- You're going to sing Blodau Papur.
0:19:57 > 0:19:58- Tell me about the song.
0:19:58 > 0:20:01- It's hard to explain properly.
0:20:01 > 0:20:03- I wrote this song a few years ago.
0:20:03 > 0:20:06- The words weren't really suitable.
0:20:06 > 0:20:07- I'd seen this show...
0:20:08 > 0:20:09- Is this story suitable?
0:20:09 > 0:20:15- ..about women killing their husbands - and getting away with it.
0:20:15 > 0:20:19- The original lyrics had lines - like "The knife in my hand".
0:20:19 > 0:20:21- Mam said that it sounded horrific.
0:20:22 > 0:20:24- It sounded as if I wanted to kill!
0:20:24 > 0:20:26- So, I didn't use those lyrics.
0:20:26 > 0:20:29- But it retains that sense - of being someone else.
0:20:30 > 0:20:34- It's a story about unfaithfulness - and me seeing through that.
0:20:34 > 0:20:39- The paper flowers are a sign - that the love isn't real.
0:20:39 > 0:20:43- I'm not sure if the story - about murder was suitable, sorry!
0:20:59 > 0:21:03- # Ooo-ooo ooo-ooo-ooo
0:21:04 > 0:21:10- # Ooo-ooo ooo-ooo-ooo
0:21:10 > 0:21:15- # Tossing and turning, - there was something on his mind
0:21:17 > 0:21:22- # Talking in his sleep, - calling her name
0:21:22 > 0:21:28- # Tossing and turning, - there was something on his mind
0:21:28 > 0:21:35- # Talking in his sleep, - calling her name
0:21:36 > 0:21:41- # He was smiling at me
0:21:41 > 0:21:45- # Trying to deny it
0:21:46 > 0:21:51- # He was smiling at me
0:21:52 > 0:21:56- # But the truth was burning me
0:21:57 > 0:22:03- # In his sleep, his sleep
0:22:03 > 0:22:09- # In his sleep
0:22:10 > 0:22:15- # Ooo-ooo-ooo oo-oo-oo-oo-oo-ooo
0:22:16 > 0:22:18- # The flowers on the table
0:22:18 > 0:22:21- # Are just paper flowers
0:22:21 > 0:22:24- # Flowers on the floor
0:22:24 > 0:22:27- # No tears in his eyes
0:22:28 > 0:22:29- # Flowers on the floor
0:22:30 > 0:22:34- # No tears in his eyes
0:22:40 > 0:22:44- # Aaa-aaa-aaa-aaa-aaa
0:22:45 > 0:22:50- # The truth was slipping out
0:22:51 > 0:22:56- # His smile couldn't hide the deceit
0:22:58 > 0:23:02- # His eyes said it all
0:23:04 > 0:23:08- # Ooo-ooo-ooo-ooo-ooo-ooo
0:23:09 > 0:23:14- # Whispering in the darkness
0:23:16 > 0:23:20- # Whispering
0:23:21 > 0:23:26- # Whispering in the darkness
0:23:27 > 0:23:34- # Whispering #
0:23:38 > 0:23:42- After the break, - I ask one question too many.
0:23:42 > 0:23:44- I never discuss The Voice now.
0:23:44 > 0:23:45- I never discuss The Voice now.- - And my duet is coming up.
0:23:47 > 0:23:48- .
0:23:52 > 0:23:52- Subtitles
0:23:52 > 0:23:54- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:23:56 > 0:23:59- Even though I'd been there once...
0:23:59 > 0:24:04- ..I was invited back to Alys's home - on the outskirts of Caernarfon...
0:24:04 > 0:24:06- ..where a surprise awaited me.
0:24:06 > 0:24:07- Hello!
0:24:08 > 0:24:09- Hello!
0:24:09 > 0:24:11- Are you OK?
0:24:13 > 0:24:15- It became clear who had invited me.
0:24:16 > 0:24:18- My new friends, Catrin and Gruff.
0:24:19 > 0:24:20- Come on then.
0:24:22 > 0:24:24- You've been practising!
0:24:24 > 0:24:26- Do you remember it?
0:24:26 > 0:24:27- Do you remember it?- - I think so.
0:24:27 > 0:24:31- He's been doing it at school, - saying that Rhys Meirion taught him.
0:24:32 > 0:24:33- Are you alright?
0:24:33 > 0:24:35- Are you alright?- - I'm fine. Are you OK?
0:24:35 > 0:24:41- We've been playing instruments - and jamming.
0:24:41 > 0:24:42- Jamming?
0:24:42 > 0:24:45- I don't understand - what jamming means.
0:24:45 > 0:24:46- What does it mean?
0:24:46 > 0:24:52- We all play instruments - to make up a song.
0:24:52 > 0:24:53- Can we hear you?
0:24:53 > 0:24:54- Can we hear you?- - OK.
0:24:54 > 0:24:57- Here is the world premiere...
0:24:57 > 0:25:01- ..of Catrin and Gruff's new song, - The Red Squirrel.
0:25:01 > 0:25:04- The piano's out of tune, sorry.
0:25:04 > 0:25:05- Don't worry about it.
0:25:05 > 0:25:07- Don't worry about it.- - We're used to it that way now.
0:25:08 > 0:25:11- I've said to myself for three years - that I'll get it tuned.
0:25:22 > 0:25:26- # One day I saw a red squirrel
0:25:27 > 0:25:31- # A little red squirrel - running along the ground
0:25:32 > 0:25:38- # I saw a little red squirrel - running in the woods #
0:25:39 > 0:25:42- The Red Squirrel. - Remember where you heard it first.
0:25:43 > 0:25:47- After singing, every rock star - needs to relax on the trampoline.
0:25:47 > 0:25:49- Do you want water or a cuppa?
0:25:49 > 0:25:52- Do you want water or a cuppa?- - Children are great, aren't they?
0:25:52 > 0:25:54- Yes, they're lovely.
0:25:55 > 0:26:00- Composing and writing - their own songs.
0:26:01 > 0:26:03- I've never seen such a thing.
0:26:03 > 0:26:09- They experiment with instruments - and come up with simple melodies.
0:26:09 > 0:26:13- Catrin wrote those chords, - but she can't sing and play.
0:26:13 > 0:26:17- Simple tunes, but it's good - for them to experiment.
0:26:17 > 0:26:20- Playing instruments - is brilliant for children.
0:26:20 > 0:26:23- Hit them, do what they want.
0:26:23 > 0:26:27- I've been listening - to your way of singing...
0:26:27 > 0:26:30- ..and a lot of that - is improvised, in a way.
0:26:30 > 0:26:35- When you compose a song, - do you write it out?
0:26:35 > 0:26:37- I'm not brilliant at the piano.
0:26:37 > 0:26:41- I play chords to myself - and experiment with my ear.
0:26:41 > 0:26:44- This is handy for writing songs.
0:26:44 > 0:26:45- This is handy for writing songs.- - What is it?
0:26:45 > 0:26:47- It's an autoharp.
0:26:47 > 0:26:51- I write the chords - and the melody on this...
0:26:52 > 0:26:56- ..and take that to the band, - or whoever I'm working with.
0:26:56 > 0:26:57- So, that...
0:26:57 > 0:27:02- You don't need to be able to play - an instrument well to play this.
0:27:03 > 0:27:06- All you do is press these buttons...
0:27:07 > 0:27:09- ..and the chords are there.
0:27:14 > 0:27:18- It's out of tune, - like everything else in this house!
0:27:18 > 0:27:22- I felt very privileged to hear - one of Alys works in progress.
0:27:23 > 0:27:25- # Down by the well
0:27:25 > 0:27:31- # There you were, looking down
0:27:31 > 0:27:34- # Looking down
0:27:34 > 0:27:39- # Silver shining in the sunshine
0:27:39 > 0:27:45- # Secret hopes, secret hopes
0:27:45 > 0:27:47- # Deep yearning
0:27:48 > 0:27:50- # Naked yearning
0:27:51 > 0:27:56- # Between the dark walls - under the cloak of dusk
0:27:56 > 0:28:03- # I hear dreams - shattering in pieces
0:28:03 > 0:28:06- # At the bottom of the well
0:28:06 > 0:28:08- # At the bottom of the well
0:28:08 > 0:28:09- # The well
0:28:10 > 0:28:11- This is so out of tune.
0:28:11 > 0:28:16- # At the bottom of the black well #
0:28:17 > 0:28:19- I haven't learnt it properly.
0:28:19 > 0:28:20- Did you write that?
0:28:20 > 0:28:21- Did you write that?- - Yes.
0:28:21 > 0:28:25- I haven't learnt it yet, - and it's not finished.
0:28:25 > 0:28:28- Alys has come a long way - since appearing on The Voice.
0:28:29 > 0:28:32- In the first series, - she only got to the early rounds...
0:28:33 > 0:28:35- ..but in series two, - she reached the semis...
0:28:36 > 0:28:39- ..and millions knew her name.
0:28:39 > 0:28:44- But series like these - put so much pressure on performers.
0:28:44 > 0:28:47- I wanted to know - what inspired her to enter.
0:28:47 > 0:28:49- I never discuss The Voice now.
0:28:50 > 0:28:52- I'm only doing so - because you brought it up.
0:28:53 > 0:28:54- Sorry!
0:28:54 > 0:28:59- I stopped singing for a while - because I'd had the children.
0:28:59 > 0:29:02- I sang a bit locally - before that, nothing major.
0:29:03 > 0:29:06- I thought it might - give me the impetus...
0:29:07 > 0:29:09- ..to do what I wanted to do.
0:29:10 > 0:29:13- When I first went on it, - I was so nervous.
0:29:13 > 0:29:15- I hadn't sung for years.
0:29:15 > 0:29:18- I got this, you know...
0:29:19 > 0:29:20- I couldn't get the notes out.
0:29:20 > 0:29:21- I couldn't get the notes out.- - Nerves.
0:29:21 > 0:29:23- The nerves were so bad.
0:29:23 > 0:29:26- It must have been - a nightmare experience.
0:29:27 > 0:29:29- It's a terrible feeling.
0:29:29 > 0:29:32- It's a terrible feeling.- - But you went back a second time.
0:29:33 > 0:29:37- You knew you had to get it right.
0:29:37 > 0:29:38- You knew you had to get it right.- - To prove myself.
0:29:39 > 0:29:40- That took a lot of guts.
0:29:40 > 0:29:44- They phoned and asked - if I'd want to do it again.
0:29:44 > 0:29:46- Initially, I wasn't sure.
0:29:47 > 0:29:51- But I wanted to prove that I could - do better than I had the first time.
0:29:51 > 0:29:54- I wasn't able to sing, in a way.
0:29:54 > 0:29:57- It went much better the second time.
0:30:02 > 0:30:04- It was a brilliant experience.
0:30:04 > 0:30:07- Tom Jones is a lovely man, - really nice.
0:30:07 > 0:30:08- But it was strange.
0:30:08 > 0:30:12- You had no real say - in what you sang or what you wore.
0:30:13 > 0:30:15- Ultimately, it was a TV programme.
0:30:16 > 0:30:18- People always ask me how I felt.
0:30:18 > 0:30:20- I enjoyed the experience.
0:30:20 > 0:30:23- It was a brilliant career boost.
0:30:23 > 0:30:28- But at the same time, - you couldn't do what you wanted.
0:30:28 > 0:30:29- Do you know what I mean?
0:30:29 > 0:30:30- Do you know what I mean?- - Absolutely.
0:30:30 > 0:30:31- They chose the songs.
0:30:31 > 0:30:33- They chose the songs.- - The songs, and the clothes.
0:30:33 > 0:30:38- I remember the dress I wore - on the night I went out.
0:30:38 > 0:30:43- They gave me a Bob Marley song, - and I knew it wouldn't suit me.
0:30:44 > 0:30:48- I wore something that made me look - as if I was going to serve sushi.
0:30:48 > 0:30:49- A big white kimono.
0:30:50 > 0:30:51- It was awful.
0:30:51 > 0:30:53- I felt like a big cloud.
0:30:53 > 0:30:55- "Please don't make me wear this."
0:30:55 > 0:30:58- "No, this has been - allocated to you."
0:30:58 > 0:31:01- In a way, I'm less nervous now...
0:31:01 > 0:31:05- ..after singing live on TV - on front of millions.
0:31:05 > 0:31:06- I can't think of anything more...
0:31:06 > 0:31:09- I can't think of anything more...- - In an awful dress!
0:31:09 > 0:31:12- Singing a song - I know doesn't suit my voice.
0:31:12 > 0:31:16- You can't go through anything - that makes you more nervous.
0:31:17 > 0:31:19- I never expected to win it.
0:31:19 > 0:31:24- I only wanted to make a career - from what I love doing - singing.
0:31:24 > 0:31:26- It's been great to that end.
0:31:26 > 0:31:29- Beautiful Alys, beautiful singer.
0:31:29 > 0:31:31- Really, really lovely.
0:31:31 > 0:31:33- Really, really lovely.- - I agree wholeheartedly, Tom.
0:31:35 > 0:31:37- Alys chose Gerfydd Fy Nwylo Gwyn.
0:31:38 > 0:31:40- A children's choir - sang in the original.
0:31:41 > 0:31:44- Alys wanted something similar - in the new arrangement.
0:31:45 > 0:31:47- Who better than Catrin and Gruff?
0:31:47 > 0:31:52- Because we've slowed it down, - and the sound is clean...
0:31:53 > 0:31:55- ..there's only a piano - and a double bass...
0:31:56 > 0:31:59- ..I felt that a choir of children - wouldn't work.
0:31:59 > 0:32:02- I've trained - Catrin and Gruff at home...
0:32:02 > 0:32:06- ..to sing it slowly - and to keep it simple and breathy.
0:32:07 > 0:32:09- Who's talking through this?
0:32:09 > 0:32:11- He's there.
0:32:12 > 0:32:13- Hiya!
0:32:13 > 0:32:14- Hiya!- - Hello!
0:32:15 > 0:32:19- # Give me your hand
0:32:19 > 0:32:21- # And we shall see the countries
0:32:22 > 0:32:25- # The roads that come
0:32:26 > 0:32:32- # From the north and the south #
0:32:36 > 0:32:37- Very good.
0:32:38 > 0:32:40- Do you want to listen to it?
0:32:43 > 0:32:47- They seem comfortable in my chair - in the recording suite.
0:32:48 > 0:32:54- # From the north and the south #
0:33:08 > 0:33:11- # By my innocent hands
0:33:11 > 0:33:15- # The most innocent hands ever
0:33:16 > 0:33:22- # Lift me from here, - from my father's house
0:33:24 > 0:33:27- # By my innocent hands
0:33:28 > 0:33:31- # Over fields and trees
0:33:31 > 0:33:35- # Over glades and lakes
0:33:36 > 0:33:42- # Over every city and country
0:33:44 > 0:33:48- # Let me see the world
0:33:48 > 0:33:52- # Every corner of it
0:33:53 > 0:34:00- # Every street corner of every town
0:34:01 > 0:34:04- # Let me see the world
0:34:04 > 0:34:08- # As I have never seen it
0:34:09 > 0:34:12- # Idols pulled down
0:34:12 > 0:34:19- # And people in their place
0:34:19 > 0:34:24- # Look at the wall shaking
0:34:24 > 0:34:27- # Look at the children running
0:34:28 > 0:34:31- # Look at the woman with both hands
0:34:32 > 0:34:34- # Trying to help them all
0:34:34 > 0:34:39- # Until someone like us passes by
0:34:39 > 0:34:43- # Someone like us passes by
0:34:43 > 0:34:49- # Someone like us passes by- - # Woo-ooo-ooo-ooo
0:34:50 > 0:34:53- # Let me see the court
0:34:54 > 0:34:57- # Where a small boy plays
0:34:58 > 0:35:05- # In a white shirt, kicking a ball
0:35:06 > 0:35:09- # Let me see the court
0:35:09 > 0:35:14- # Where the world revolves so slowly
0:35:14 > 0:35:18- # Held between fingers and thumbs
0:35:18 > 0:35:24- # So sweet and lovely
0:35:26 > 0:35:29- # Let me see the homes
0:35:29 > 0:35:33- # Where the curtains are all closed
0:35:34 > 0:35:40- # Let me see the sun - when it's not summer
0:35:42 > 0:35:45- # Let me see the homes
0:35:45 > 0:35:49- # Where sorrow is so deep
0:35:49 > 0:35:54- # Where the children never hear
0:35:54 > 0:36:00- # Any good news
0:36:00 > 0:36:04- # Look at the wall shaking
0:36:04 > 0:36:08- # Look at the children running
0:36:09 > 0:36:12- # Look at the woman with both hands
0:36:12 > 0:36:15- # Trying to help them all
0:36:15 > 0:36:20- # Until someone like us passes by
0:36:20 > 0:36:24- # Someone like us passes by
0:36:24 > 0:36:30- # Someone like us passes by- - # Woo-ooo-ooo-ooo
0:36:31 > 0:36:36- # Give me your hand
0:36:36 > 0:36:38- # And we shall climb the mountain
0:36:39 > 0:36:41- # There is a road
0:36:41 > 0:36:46- # But only children know the way
0:36:46 > 0:36:50- # Give me your hand
0:36:50 > 0:36:54- # And we shall see the countries
0:36:54 > 0:36:57- # The roads that come
0:36:58 > 0:37:06- # From the north and the south
0:37:06 > 0:37:12- # From the north and the south
0:37:13 > 0:37:21- # From the north and the south #
0:37:25 > 0:37:26- .
0:37:29 > 0:37:29- Subtitles
0:37:29 > 0:37:31- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:37:31 > 0:37:36- My choice of duet with Alys - was Rhys Jones's classic, O Gymru.
0:37:40 > 0:37:43- It was sung by Eleri Llwyd - in the 1970s.
0:37:43 > 0:37:47- I thought the song's slow - and wistful sound would suit Alys.
0:37:48 > 0:37:51- But having seen - Osian's arrangement...
0:37:51 > 0:37:54- ..there was lots to do - to make it a duet.
0:37:54 > 0:37:58- There are gaps for Alys's voice, - so I don't know what she's doing.
0:37:58 > 0:38:01- I'll then have to work with that.
0:38:01 > 0:38:09- # O Wales, o Wales, - I'd give you my life
0:38:09 > 0:38:13- # O Wales, o Wales #
0:38:13 > 0:38:17- When Rhys said we were doing - O Gymru, I was a bit worried.
0:38:17 > 0:38:21- I imagined him - belting out the high notes...
0:38:21 > 0:38:23- ..and that's not my style.
0:38:23 > 0:38:26- I didn't know - how I'd make it sound good.
0:38:27 > 0:38:28- Nice.
0:38:28 > 0:38:29- Nice.- - Wow!
0:38:30 > 0:38:31- My part's easy!
0:38:31 > 0:38:35- I've never had anyone - sing so loudly so close to me!
0:38:36 > 0:38:40- Loudly, maybe, but Alys - can hit those high notes as well.
0:38:40 > 0:38:44- # O Wales, o Wales
0:38:44 > 0:38:46- # O Wales, o Wales- - Ooh! Wow!
0:38:46 > 0:38:54- # My Wales, you are my sunshine #
0:38:55 > 0:38:58- I was enjoying the experience - of working with Alys...
0:38:58 > 0:39:03- ..but collaborating with other - artists isn't new to her at all.
0:39:03 > 0:39:06- She took me to Llanfrothen - to meet Ed Holden.
0:39:07 > 0:39:08- Do you work together?
0:39:08 > 0:39:13- We met on Gweld Y Byd Mewn Lliw - and I've known Ed for years.
0:39:14 > 0:39:17- We've moved on and tried - to do other projects together.
0:39:20 > 0:39:24- Ed, or Mr Phormula, - is a rapper and beatboxer.
0:39:24 > 0:39:29- He and Alys are working on a project - that uses just their voices.
0:39:30 > 0:39:32- RAP MUSIC
0:39:37 > 0:39:39- We both use our voices.
0:39:40 > 0:39:43- That's the main link, really.
0:39:43 > 0:39:47- You often use your voice - as an instrument, don't you?
0:39:48 > 0:39:51- I've always wanted to do - something voice-based...
0:39:51 > 0:39:54- ..but I'm not great - with the technical side.
0:39:54 > 0:39:57- I know Ed's fantastic, - having worked with him before.
0:39:58 > 0:40:01- I thought I'd give - something like this a go.
0:40:01 > 0:40:05- I played some simple chords - on a piano...
0:40:05 > 0:40:08- ..and recorded - every note individually.
0:40:08 > 0:40:09- Like a voice?
0:40:09 > 0:40:12- Like a voice?- - The voice as the main instrument.
0:40:12 > 0:40:15- Then Ed's done some superb sampling.
0:40:15 > 0:40:16- Let's see then.
0:40:20 > 0:40:22- I recorded every note individually.
0:40:23 > 0:40:26- Then you play them together...
0:40:29 > 0:40:30- Wow!
0:40:34 > 0:40:39- So there are no instruments, - just both your voices.
0:40:40 > 0:40:41- Wow.
0:40:42 > 0:40:45- I wanted to hear how my voice - would sound electronically.
0:40:46 > 0:40:49- I'll play it, - and you sing whatever you want.
0:40:49 > 0:40:50- Anything.
0:40:50 > 0:40:51- Anything.- - Improvise.
0:40:52 > 0:40:53- The pressure is on.
0:40:53 > 0:40:54- The pressure is on.- - Improvising.
0:40:54 > 0:40:57- That's new to me. - I'm used to a manuscript.
0:40:58 > 0:41:03- And a bloke with a white stick - watching and keeping you in line.
0:41:03 > 0:41:05- If you improvise, they go crazy.
0:41:06 > 0:41:07- Ready?
0:41:07 > 0:41:08- Ready?- - Yes.
0:41:09 > 0:41:10- OK.
0:41:15 > 0:41:20- # Aaaa-aaaa-aaaa
0:41:22 > 0:41:29- # Aaaaaa-aaaaa
0:41:30 > 0:41:37- # Aaaaaa-aaaaaa #
0:41:37 > 0:41:38- Cool.
0:41:38 > 0:41:40- Lovely, very good.
0:41:41 > 0:41:42- Very good, very good.
0:41:43 > 0:41:47- That's now been sliced up.
0:41:50 > 0:41:51- Wow!
0:41:51 > 0:41:53- Wow!- - Cool, isn't it?
0:41:55 > 0:41:58- Then, if I use an arpeggiator...
0:42:02 > 0:42:03- I'm beatboxing now!
0:42:10 > 0:42:12- Very cool, Ed.
0:42:12 > 0:42:18- The improvised style persists as - Alys puts her own stamp on O Gymru.
0:42:19 > 0:42:20- This is creepy.
0:42:24 > 0:42:28- We have to work some parts out, - and she's come up with some parts.
0:42:28 > 0:42:32- I don't know if it'll work, - but I've worked a lot with Alys.
0:42:32 > 0:42:35- Her voice goes to places - I've never heard before.
0:42:36 > 0:42:40- I've never seen anyone - working this way in a studio either.
0:42:43 > 0:42:46- I came up with a hook - in the outro at the end.
0:42:46 > 0:42:51- I thought I'd just do some riffs, - but it's turned out differently.
0:42:56 > 0:42:58- Have you got it, Rhys?
0:43:01 > 0:43:03- You could go down there.
0:43:05 > 0:43:06- Try that.
0:43:08 > 0:43:13- Eventually, there are three Alyses - on the completed track.
0:43:15 > 0:43:18- I've had a tremendous day today.
0:43:18 > 0:43:21- I've looked forward - to singing with Alys...
0:43:21 > 0:43:25- ..but I was unsure - how the voices would sound together.
0:43:25 > 0:43:28- I've had to change my style - more with Alys.
0:43:29 > 0:43:31- But I love how it's turned out.
0:43:32 > 0:43:37- Singing two duets with Rhys Meirion - has been an amazing experience.
0:43:37 > 0:43:41- Our voices are so different, - but I think it worked really well.
0:43:41 > 0:43:44- This might never happen again.
0:43:44 > 0:43:45- It's been great.
0:43:46 > 0:43:48- Very good.
0:44:05 > 0:44:13- # You're the only country for me
0:44:14 > 0:44:19- # O Wales
0:44:20 > 0:44:29- # You fill my heart with joy
0:44:29 > 0:44:34- # You're my heaven
0:44:35 > 0:44:42- # O Wales, o Wales, - I'd give you my life
0:44:43 > 0:44:50- # O Wales, o Wales, - you are my paradise
0:44:50 > 0:45:01- # My Wales, you are my sunshine
0:45:06 > 0:45:13- # When trouble - sometimes rears its head
0:45:14 > 0:45:20- # I am lifted
0:45:21 > 0:45:29- # By images of hill and home
0:45:30 > 0:45:35- # The land of my birth
0:45:36 > 0:45:43- # O Wales, o Wales, - I'd give you my life
0:45:44 > 0:45:50- # O Wales, o Wales, - you are my paradise
0:45:51 > 0:46:02- # My Wales, you are my sunshine
0:46:37 > 0:46:51- # O my Wales, - I'd happily sing you a song
0:46:52 > 0:47:07- # A song to honour you, my sunshine
0:47:07 > 0:47:14- # O Wales, o Wales, - I'd give you my life
0:47:14 > 0:47:21- # O Wales, o Wales, - you are my paradise
0:47:22 > 0:47:25- # My Wales
0:47:26 > 0:47:33- # You are my sunshine
0:47:36 > 0:47:42- # You are
0:47:44 > 0:47:49- # You are #
0:48:27 > 0:48:29- S4C Subtitles by Testun Cyf.
0:48:29 > 0:48:30- .