The iconic Cardiff music venue, The Moon, is set to make a comeback as The New Moon after its closure in November 2024 due to financial challenges. The new venue’s focus will be on showcasing music genres that are considered ‘massively underrepresented’ in Cardiff. The team behind The New Moon aims to revitalise the city’s music scene by offering a platform for soul, neo-soul, R&B, and hip-hop artists, as well as live and electronic music performances. Matt Cutrupi, the mastermind behind Bunkhouse Hostel & DnB Bar, will be leading the operations at The New Moon and hopes to bring a fresh twist to Womanby Street’s music landscape.
The reopening of The New Moon on Womanby Street is a significant event for Cardiff’s music community as it aims to provide opportunities for emerging artists in genres that are often overlooked in the city. The decision to focus on urban sounds and electronic music reflects a strategic move by the team to cater to a diverse range of musical tastes. By introducing these genres to Womanby Street, which is traditionally known for hosting rock and band performances, The New Moon seeks to attract a more varied audience and contribute to the cultural vibrancy of Cardiff’s music scene.
Matt, at 25, expressed his optimism about the venture, highlighting the importance of nurturing a supportive environment for artists who may not fit into the mainstream music categories prevalent in Cardiff. The New Moon’s commitment to promoting underrepresented genres aligns with their vision to create a inclusive space for musicians to develop their craft and connect with audiences. The team’s dedication to fostering a more diverse and inclusive music community in Cardiff underscores the venue’s role as a catalyst for artistic experimentation and growth.
The decision to retain a moon-themed name for the venue pays homage to its rich history and legacy in Cardiff’s music culture. By drawing inspiration from The Moon Club’s roots dating back to the 70s and 80s, The New Moon aspires to continue the venue’s tradition of being a cornerstone of Cardiff’s music scene. Cardiff Council’s support for The New Moon underscores the city’s commitment to preserving grassroots music venues and fostering a creative ecosystem that supports emerging talent. The funding provided by the council serves as a testament to the importance of venues like The New Moon in enriching Cardiff’s cultural landscape.
As The New Moon prepares to open its doors, the anticipation surrounding its launch signifies a new chapter in Cardiff’s music history. By embracing a diverse range of music genres and providing a platform for emerging artists, The New Moon is poised to make a significant impact on Cardiff’s music scene. The venue’s mission to promote inclusivity, creativity, and innovation in music reflects a broader trend towards embracing diversity and pushing boundaries in the arts and entertainment industry. The reopening of The New Moon represents not just a revival of a beloved music venue but also a beacon of hope for aspiring musicians and music enthusiasts in Cardiff.