Aleighcia Scott – Taith

The album’s title means “Journey”, and that’s exactly what this record captures. Not so long ago Scott was learning Welsh from scratch. Since then, many have watched her progress through the TV series ‘Iaith ar Daith’ and later as a coach on ‘Y Llais’, the Welsh version of The Voice. That experience inspired a string of groundbreaking Welsh-language reggae singles, including Dod o’r Galon, the first Welsh reggae song to reach number one on the iTunes Reggae chart. Taith takes that journey one step further as the first full-length Welsh-language reggae album.

Recorded with Côsh Records founder Yws Gwynedd and producer Rich James Roberts, the 10 track set brings together previously released singles like Diolch, Gwreiddiau and Hawdd with new songs exploring love, heartbreak and self-discovery. The album closes with a striking version of Hen Wlad fy Nhadau. Reggae remains the heartbeat throughout, but Scott also weaves in touches of R&B and pop that give the project extra colour without taking it away from its roots.

The opening track, Diolch (Thank You), gets things off to a bright, uplifting start. Bright horn lines, a lively riddim and Scott’s infectious vocals create an uplifting tribute to everyone who’s stood beside her. It’s warm, joyful and impossible to resist. That positive energy carries into Gwreiddiau (Roots), a tune that proudly embraces both sides of Scott’s identity. Riding a solid roots reggae riddim with deep bass and a steady skank, she celebrates her Welsh upbringing and Jamaican heritage with equal pride. It’s a reminder that roots aren’t just about where you come from, but also about what keeps you grounded.

On Neud e i Ti (I Do It For You), featuring horn parts recorded in Jamaica by musicians she’s worked with for years, Scott responds to the criticism she’s received online for calling herself Welsh. Rather than sounding defensive, she turns the song into a confident statement about knowing exactly who she is. One of the album’s standout moments is the gorgeous Dod o’r Galon (From the Heart). Built around a smooth lovers rock groove, warm basslines and beautiful backing vocals, it’s an intimate song about opening yourself up and speaking honestly. Scott’s soulful delivery makes every word feel genuine.

Then comes Ti Neud Fi Symud (You Make Me Move), a lively detour that swaps roots reggae for a disco-flavoured groove. Funky brass, layered vocals and irresistible energy make it one of the album’s most unexpected moments, while proving Scott is just as comfortable outside reggae’s traditional borders. Hawdd (Easy) brings us back into familiar territory with an easy-going reggae groove that’s smooth from start to finish. The laid-back riddim, clean guitar chops and effortless vocals make it one of those tracks that quietly gets under your skin. Aleighcia Scott saves something special for the finale. Her version of the Welsh national anthem, Hen Wlad fy Nhadau (Land Of My Fathers), is reshaped into a soulful, dub-inspired reggae performance that honours tradition while giving it a fresh, uplifting spirit.

Taith is more than just another reggae album. It’s a celebration of language, culture and identity, wrapped in warm production, rich brass arrangements and first-class vocals. And don’t worry if you don’t understand a word of Welsh. The emotion, melodies and reggae spirit speak a language we can all understand.