New Wave Sound, the talented music duo comprising Gnotez and Jordi, are making waves in the MOBO music scene in Cardiff. Described as the individuals with the most energy in Wales, the pair, whose original names are Gerald and Jordan, bring a fresh energy to the city’s sound, blending influences from their diverse backgrounds into a unique music style.
The journey of New Wave goes back to 2016. Their relationship was forged through their shared love for basketball and their energetic personalities. Gnotez reminisces on their origins: “We met through a mutual friend group in 2016 and bonded as friends first,” he explains. “We found out we were both interested in basketball, and from that, understood we loved music and were given the chance to make a song together. People really liked the track, so we just ran with it.
“Six years later, we feel established and are looking to expand.”
Indeed, the fusion of their varied backgrounds is a core part of New Wave’s sound. Gerald, hailing from Zimbabwe and steeped in the grime scene of London, brings his MCing, rapping, and experiences creating melodies inspired by his choir roots into the mix, while Jordi’s upbringing across Europe and his early influences in Trap metal music adds diversity into their lyrics.
Despite their strong partnership, both artists maintain individual aspirations within the music industry. When discussing their plans to remain a group or eventually have solo careers, they said, “For now, we’re focused on building the New Wave Sound brand and also building our own individual brands.” Gnotez elaborates. “We both envision long-term careers and hope to combine our solo ventures with our efforts as a group.”
Their latest EP, “Downpour of the Wave,” and the accompanying music video for the single “Again” have garnered praise, showing that their career is beginning to gain momentum and people have finally started to take notice of their work.
When asked what their favourite song from the EP was, Gnotez said, “Vermin is my pick, and then Dynasty. I love the intense beats and the heavy-hitting on the flows. Also, the track featured, VBZ and R6, and I loved watching the collaboration among all the artists.” While Jordi’s was easier, “My favourite on the album is Outside, I really like the sound of the beat.”
Yet, like many artists, New Wave have faced hurdles along the way, from language barriers to financial struggles “I think the major challenges are more so financial barriers in the industry and lack of recognition for the artists who are in the rap industry in Cardiff,” Gnotez laments. While Jordi identified that he struggled in the past with the English language, “German is my first language, so the barrier of pronouncing words probably was my main issue, but repetition and drive have helped me get over that obstacle.”
It is clear as day that the artists have remained undeterred, seeing these obstacles as opportunities for growth and instead focusing on their achievements, which include bringing their ideas to life through music and performing for engaged audiences.
New Wave see themselves as pioneers of a new sound, bridging genres and pushing boundaries.
“I believe we are pioneers in Cardiff of this sound–Hyper Trap, or Punk Trap as some may call it” Gnotez asserts.
However, they admire the music scene in Cardiff so much, and Jordi credits producers like, “Farrah and Reu6ix” for giving him great advice and support. While Gnotez credits “Valley Events and REU6IX” for bringing people together, but believes he was heavily influenced by his brother who was in a 5-Man Rap Group while he was growing up.
As they continue to carve their path, New Wave remains grounded in their friendship and shared vision. “Being two African Black men raised in different environments, it is very understandable that we disagree on things,” Jordi acknowledges. “However, we have goals and understand that in order to achieve those goals, certain things have to be done.”
With upcoming projects in the works, and a show in Swansea on March 9th, New Wave is excited to share their music with the Cardiff community and beyond. “Project expansion is our focus right now,” Gnotez declares.
In a parting message to aspiring musicians, Jordi offers words of encouragement:
“If you think of an idea, try your best to make it come alive. Whether it’s a melody in your head or a beat you’ve been thinking of making, Just do it.”
New Wave’s story is one of friendship, passion and adaptability. With their dedication to music and their unique sound, they hope to make waves in Cardiff’s music scene, and to leave a mark on listeners far and wide.
Stream their New EP, “Downpour of the Wave”
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Written by Angel Joanne Okonkwo
