'Fret Not' - Wales Road - Artist Spotlight

Written By Adam Ward
What's Up Magazine
Sept/Oct 1998

"As Tom Wales puts it, Wales Road is the 'musical exression' of himself. Backed by Russian born guitarist Ilya Fedotov, Wales Road maintains a musical presence in coffee houses, churches and colleges thoughout the greater Rochester area.

With the help of a few skillful session players on mandolin,banjo,hammer dulcimer and viola, Wales' latest release 'Fret Not',has a polished absorbing sound. Its unique blend of acoustic rock,neo-folk and blues shows up well on songs like 'Purple Heart,Silver Cross' and 'Trees and Pretty Things'.

Influenced by musicians such as the Resurrection Band, Larry Norman and the 77's, Wales says he started playing acoustic guitar as a college student at Elim while earning a degree in Biblical studies. At first he played worship choruses, but eventually wrote his own songs.

'Music is an extension of my spiritual life' ,he says.'It's always been a desire of my heart to communicate my faith and struggles through my music.' Now after releasing three studio albums on Spun Records, an independent label, Wales is busy completing another, titled 'Happy Face In The Mourning' and compiling a live disc called 'Acoustica'. Over the years Wales has learned that true ministry is to be a servant. 'God's gift to us is our talents', he says. 'Our gift to Him in return is to use our talents for His glory.' "

Written By Adam Ward
What's Up Magazine
Sept/Oct 1998