Local Artist of the Week: THE DHOGIE BAND

Dhogie Band was formed nearly 60 years ago by a bunch of schoolbys in Crymych. They still have one original member, John Humfrey of Newport, together with the Hughes boys from Strumble - Edward, Iwan, and Mefin (pictured). Occasional members, for recording purposes or live performance, include Lee Mason (well known as Lowri Evans' musical director) plus Anwen and James from The Guilty (Anwen is John's daughter).

John and Iwan also perform as the Acoustic Dhogies in smaller venues.

Their music mixes originals and covers and is performed in both English and Welsh. They continue to be one of the most respected and influential bands on the west Wales music and cultural scenes.

Of particular interest is their original song, 'Daniel James', a song in praise of the writer of the Welsh hymn Calon Lan, a song which mixes classic rock with the singing of a Welsh choir. Daniel James was the great grandfather of John's late wife, Rosalyn.

The band used to tour all over the UK, but John told BB Skone they were too old for that malarkey these days. Not surprising when you see the kit they used to travel with back in the day! (pictured).