Photo Credit: Cuffe & Taylor
Words: Sofia Lavender-Callow

On the subject of Cardiff’s music scene, the most prominent venue that comes to mind is the massive principality stadium, home to welsh rugby and a huge … seat arena that has hosted the likes of taylor swift and Beyoncé. However, right in the middle of the city centre, is the most breathtaking. Where you can have tours of ancient castle remains by day, you can rock, sing and cry by night. Tonight cardiff castle opened its castle grounds for Ethel Cain and fans, in a series of shows called depot in the castle. 

London indie rock band Bar Italia served as special guests, whose name is taken from the iconic Soho café of the same name, opened the show. The trio brought energy and passion as they shared vocal and instrumental duties, spotlighting a band who have been grinding for years in the industry.

In the “sickest walk to stage ever”, from the dungeons of the castle, Ethel Cain took the stage. Entering to ‘Sunday Morning’ as dance circles formed in the gardens and fans skipped to be as close to the stage as possible. The grassy set design blended perfectly with the luscious surroundings and her silky vocals bounced off the walls of the castle as fans bathed in the sound.

American teenager brought a heavier, unusual tone for the band and people danced a sea of white lace, floral dress and wavy locks filled the grounds. As people sang in unison to their favourites, you can tell how her lyrics truly connect with young men and women. Each crowd member had a tear brought upon hearing the beginning of the song that connects with them the most.

Ethel Cain claims to not be a vocalist, but her ability to hold a massive crowd so enchanted and touched says otherwise. Her poetry and performance are beyond a craft as she’s truly mastered vocalising coming of age, heartbreak and grief. Watching her live is a privilege, but i must warn you won’t leave with a dry eye.