The Founding History of Fflach
Fflach Records was started by brothers Richard and Wyn Jones in 1981. They were both members of the new wave/punk group Second Movement. At first Fflach was just a label promoting rock, pop and ska groups, but in the mid-eighties an 8-track studio was added, and as a result more artists were recorded, and ventured into the fields of choral, folk and country music.
Later on the label flash:tradd was formed, a label for traditional Welsh music, and in 2000 Rasp was formed, an indie/dance label recording, among others, Swci Boscawen, Texas Radio Band and Vanta.
In 2021 the two brothers were lost within months of each other, leaving Fflach’s future in the balance. But from the sadness came new energy with the formation of Community Flash. The aim of Fflach Cymunedol is to continue the ethos and work of Fflach Cyf as a Welsh and creative hub in Cardigan, so that local musicians of all kinds can continue to record and release music.
Why Save?
Fflach Cyf was founded by Richard and Wyn in their DIY and punk image. The aim was to actively promote and record bands like them, but also local artists to the Cardigan area. It is an essential service, meaning that the local community can put themselves on the musical map, have the opportunity to record their work, and is a creative boost in the town. This is also the aim of Fflach Community, to carry the original ethos for establishing Flach forward to 2024 and beyond.
future
We will revamp the label; still looking for new talent, but with a specific focus on releasing music from organisations, schools, individuals, new artists and local groups. We will offer a unique service, and a radical way of giving a voice to the local community. This period has already started with Mattoidz coming back to the label, and the bands Lafant and Dewin preparing to release music.
We may even move Fflach Community to a brand new studio in the middle of Cardigan High Street, in the vestry of the Tabernacle. This is where Fflach was originally established in 1981.
Benefits
It’s not only local musicians who will benefit from the existence of Fflach Cymunedol. We will work with anyone who has something to say! The ‘Cymunedol’ (Community) in our name is crucial, and giving a voice to the creative communities of Wales will be central to our intention.
This is a unique opportunity to reimagine an organisation so close to the hearts of many in the area, and turn it into a resource to serve us as a community, and an open door for the whole of Wales and beyond to be part of the story which, after 40 years, is still being said.
“Over the decades Fflach led by Rich, Wyn and Kevin have made a tremendous contribution to music in Cardigan and the whole of Wales and beyond. After the great sadness of losing all three of them it is extremely exciting to see Fflach preparing to become a community company and to innovate again by creating the first record company in Wales that will be owned by the community. Community ownership is the way forward for everyone and it’s great to see the music industry moving in this direction. It is also a testament to Fflach’s work, influence and vision over the years and it is inspiring.”
“Fflach has played a key role in the history of Welsh music. The vision to develop Community Flash is exciting and vital to the local community and the music industry in Wales and beyond. I’m looking forward to following this new development and the next chapter in the Flash story.”
“I am extremely proud to offer my support to this exciting scheme, which will be an asset to everyone involved in music in Cardigan and the surrounding area, be they individuals, groups, choirs and instrumentalists.
In the spirit and enthusiasm of the founders of Fflach and Second Movement, Fflach Community will not only be a restart but also a continuation of the important and valuable work carried out by Richard, Wyn and Kevin.”
“It is extremely exciting to hear the news about Fflach in its new form! The history of this crucial label is incredible, and Richard and Wyn’s legacy is still felt throughout Wales. But it’s nice to now be able to look forward, and see what’s next for Fflach Cymunedol and its community. This is a big moment for the whole of Wales, but an even bigger moment for bands and young artists. Long live Fflach Cymunedol!”
