The Welsh rock band Holy Coves are gearing up for the release of their highly anticipated fourth studio album, 'Hiraeth', which is set to drop on August 14th, 2026, on vinyl and CD through their own independent record label. This album marks a significant milestone for the band, as it showcases their evolution and a clear artistic vision, free from genre constraints. The album's title, 'Hiraeth', is a Welsh word that encapsulates a deep sense of longing and nostalgia, reflecting the personal and emotional journey the band embarked on during its creation.
A Personal and Emotional Journey
The band's decision to take a step back from the music industry and social media was a pivotal moment. It allowed them to focus on their craft and address personal challenges. During the writing process, Scott Marsden, the band's guitarist and songwriter, grappled with difficult topics such as childhood trauma, addiction, recovery, love, loss, tragedy, and death. These themes are more personal and profound than anything the band has explored before.
The writing sessions were not without their challenges. Marsden's mother fell ill, and the band had to navigate through health issues and difficult family matters. Despite these obstacles, the band persevered, demonstrating their dedication and support for one another. Tragically, one week before entering the recording studio, Marsden's mother, Sheila, passed away. This loss could have led to the cancellation of the album, but the band's determination to put everything into the record prevailed.
Marsden reflects on this period, stating, 'I used writing as a way to process everything that was happening around me. The real world crept into the band room and into the songs we were writing together. It was one of the hardest moments of my life, but at the same time, it was very therapeutic. The band showed up for me when I needed them the most.'
A Musical Odyssey
The album, 'Hiraeth', is an epic journey, showcasing the band's growth and artistic freedom. It was recorded at their studio in Menai Bridge, Isle of Anglesey, with Scott Marsden, John Lawrence, and Owain Ginsberg serving as producers. Erik Wofford, an American producer known for his work with The Black Angels and Black Pumas, mixed and mastered the album in Austin, Texas.
Marsden describes 'Hiraeth' as a feeling he has experienced deeply throughout his life, connecting it to the beauty of nature and the echoes of his ancestors. He explains, 'For me, it's in the mountains, the forests, the trees, the meadows, the rivers, the beaches, and the sea. It's in everything I see that's beautiful, the echoes of what was once there before me, my ancestors, I feel it deeply.'
The band's unique sound, which they call 'Awen Rock', is a blend of different genres, allowing them to create their distinct rock sound. Marsden emphasizes, 'For me, the highest point of creativity is to be free to make the music you want, without any compromise. We're a rock band, but we're not confined to one genre. We blend different genres together to create our rock sound.'
Album Release and Tour
On the day of the album's release, August 14th, Holy Coves will embark on a full UK in-store tour to promote 'Hiraeth'. The tour will commence in Wrexham with an acoustic show at Revibed Records, followed by a headline performance at Wrexfest Festival. The band will then visit various record stores across the UK, including Jacaranda Records in Liverpool, Wax and Beans in Bury, A Slice Of Vinyl in Gosport, Banquet Records in London, Kingston, Crash Records in Leeds, Assai Records in Glasgow and Aberdeen, and Beyond Vinyl in Newcastle Upon Tyne.
Conclusion
'Hiraeth' is not just an album; it's a testament to the band's resilience, creativity, and emotional depth. Through their music, Holy Coves have crafted a narrative that resonates with listeners, inviting them to explore the complexities of life, love, and loss. As the band continues to evolve, their music will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the rock scene, inspiring both fans and fellow musicians alike.
