R-Bennig

A very eccentric independent label run by Johnny “R” from his Gwalchmai residence on Anglesey. This label consistently produced innovative material, which at times was ruthlessly anti-commercial. (not entirely on purpose either). The label has worked with many artists using or fusing many styles of music. Apart from the underground groups and collaborations, the label’s other projects are the Waw Ffactor and Pic Nic, that are more commercially appealing. Yet both groups can be listened to on two (or more) levels, which is why an R-Bennig record is always intriguing and becomes even more so when listened to repeatedly. The Waw Ffactor, which is fronted by actress and singer Rachel Carpenter, has achieved success in both Wales and on the European continent. There was also another off-shoot of this label called Wili Nili that had at least 4 releases, including an album by an Italian mod band called Smodati. However, you never quite trusted Johnny R as it may have been a complete wind up, and the band could have been from Llangefni...! Another note: R-BEN 052 – Mank LP – Ben Powell (Mank) says, ‘Love the fact that the “Mank LP” was withdrawn, that was actually a demo CD I sent Johnny, I later found out that the songs had been registered on PRS without my knowledge and not in my name.’