Mark W Collard, a talented singer-songwriter and storyteller from the Vale of Glamorgan, has released a thought-provoking new EP titled A Wake Up Call. This five-track project focuses on the impact of climate change, blending spoken word, music, and song into a captivating concept work. The EP takes an avant-garde and post-progressive approach, setting a unique and evocative atmosphere.
One of the standout tracks, Illuminous, comes with a visually striking video that adds to the powerful message of the EP. Each track introduces different characters, drawing listeners deeper into the unfolding narrative. The entire project came together in collaboration with keyboard player Carl, with whom Mark worked in a Pontypool studio. The melodies, Carl’s arrangements and Mark’s storytelling seamlessly combine, making this some of his most poignant work to date.
We found the EP both intriguing and relevant. The way Mark uses music to tell such an important story felt refreshing and the concept behind it makes the listener think. It’s a creative take on a global issue that more artists should address.
ABOUT THE ARTIST:
Mark W Collard is a singer-songwriter, poet, and storyteller based in the Vale of Glamorgan, Wales. Inspired by his late father-in-law’s struggle with dementia, Mark began writing lyrics and melodies about ten years ago, leading to the creation of his musical “Waiting For Blue,” which explores the experience of living with dementia. Several songs from the musical, including “Waiting For Blue,” “Blue Grass Cafe,” “Nashville Can,” and “Come With Me (the Barry Island Song),” have made the Top 40 of the European Country Music Chart. Mark’s work has also received airplay on BBC Radio Wales and various independent radio stations across Wales and the UK. His song “Y Dyn Da (The Good Man),” about the legendary Welsh King Hywel Dda, has been featured at the 2023 Urdd and now resides in the Hywel Dda Interpretive Centre in Whitland. Mark’s diverse musical collection spans genres such as Country, Christian, Classical, Electronic, Folk, and Post-Progressive. His storytelling aim is to blend spoken word, music, and song to captivate listeners from beginning to end. Notably, Mark performed his work “Sitting On The Edge Of My Bed” at the historical and iconic Pier Head building in Cardiff Bay, Cardiff, Wales. Keep up to date with all of his artistry using the links below.
