Rod Thomas Named as Welsh act for 2009

Neath’s Rod Thomas has been named as the new Welsh music artist for 2009 by the Welsh music website www.newsoundwales.com. Rod beat off stiff competition from the likes of Sweet Baboo, 9Bach and Cate le Bon.

With several singles under his belt and a trip to the influential industry showcase ‘South by Southwest’ (SXSW) in Texas in March, Rod looks set to become a major star next year.

Rod responded by saying: “It means a lot to get support from home, so being selected for this recognition by the site is amazing news. There's so much music happening in Wales right now that just about breaks through, it's great that more people are trying to champion home grown talent. In the next year I'll be putting out a mini-album of singles so far, finishing the album proper, and doing some tracks with Boom Bip from Neon Neon as well as touring more and hopefully a good run of festivals again like last year.

Other artist recognised by the site include Brighton’s Peggy Sue as best new British artist (non-Welsh) and Chad Vangaalen from Canada as best new international artist.

For more information about the award go to www.newsoundwales.com

or contact Francis Brown on 07960 820645 

newsoundwales is a non-profit making website which aims to provide a 'one-stop shop' for anyone living in Wales who is passionate about independent minded music.

We aim to:

* Keep you informed of the key gigs taking place in Wales.
* Review the main CD releases, especially by Welsh artists.
* Bring you the best new artists from home and abroad.
* Highlight artists from the past that may have passed you by.
* Bring you the music news of Wales.