I’ve said it before, but there are few bands that make you feel as warm inside as The Philo Beddoe Band. The five-piece from Merthyr are staples in the South Wales area, and their regular appearances don’t distract from a quality that makes them one of the most impressive outfits around today.
The Philo Beddoe Band
Chepstow Castle – 24 August 2023
Words and Photography: Paul Hutchings
They play a short set, opening with Pink Gin and incorporating a lovely melody of Man songs, something that gets the nod from those who appreciate the Welsh legends.
The crowd is slowly filling as they hit their stride, those who made the effort to get in early are richly rewarded. Led by the charm of singer/guitarist Phil Harrington, the beautiful slide work of Nigel Jones, and some fine lead work by third guitarist Alyn Dinham, they really are a captivating collective. 
The band is slick and musically excellent. Harrington is also a wit between songs, laughingly referring All That Glitters Ain’t Gold to Dinham’s ex-wife. It’s a shame they only have time for a few tracks. 
The sun is still setting as they finish with Iron & Steel, a tribute to their hometown, which, as Harrington reminds us, was once the biggest in Wales. 
It’s an anthem that is rightly appreciated by those of the Dragon’s heritage and incorporates Jones’ trademark finish of Hen Wlad Fy Nhaddau, which gets the heart swelling.
A fine way to open the evening. 