One of the great pop eccentrics of his generation, he gained fame in the mid-'90s as frontman for the neo-psychedelic warriors Super Furry Animals, and has continued to craft melodically rich, stylistically adventurous works as a solo artist.
With a career spanning over three decades, Rhys' unique blend of rock, electronic, and psychedelic elements has come together in his latest album, Sadness Sets Me Free.
Crafted around maintaining hope in bleak times, he continues to celebrate otherness, a way of reaching out to the oddballs and characters, who create imperfect connections.
With subtle wordplay, and not so subtle call to arms against the government, press and monarchy, his social consciousness is displayed once again through his lyrics.
Featuring lilting piano ballads, country swing undertones and a nod to Big Yellow Taxi, this album showcases his innovative approach to storytelling. Described as both disconcerting and comforting, it moves between an exploration of cosmic loneliness and political disenchantment.
Throughout his more recent career, Rhys has been regularly inspired by the biographies of notable historical figures, and it is this madcap curiosity that drives his work. He has a keen eye for uncovering the emotional centre of his chosen topics, and has many strings to his bow including composer, producer, filmmaker and author.
While well known for his role with the acclaimed Super Furry Animals, who obtained mainstream success in the 1990s, he also formed the electro-pop outfit Neon Neon with Boom Bip.
Tickets cost €25 from www.monroes.ie
