Cadair Idris

Cadair Idris is the debut album from the Leeds-based eight-piece folk-jazz collective Awen Ensemble. Awen, meaning ‘poetic inspiration’ in Welsh, perfectly encapsulates the album’s essence. Formed from a shared love of jazz and a collective Celtic heritage, the ensemble brings a strong Welsh influence to this project. The album combines Welsh, Irish and Scottish roots, mixing melody, improvisational flair and modern, poignant stories. The central theme is a young woman’s transformative journey on the mountain Cadair Idris in Eryri (previously Snowdonia). Cadair Idris opens with the haunting spoken word piece ‘Deuwn i Mi’. Amy Clark’s ethereal and wistful vocals guide listeners through the musical interplay. The ensemble, including Emyr Penry Dance on trumpet/flugel, Saul Duff on tenor saxophone, Ruari Graham on guitar, Glen Leach on Fender Rhodes, Joe Wilkes on upright bass, Eddie Bowes on bodhrán and Samantha Binotti on vibraphone, showcase impeccable model jazz sensibilities and spiritual folk influences. The album offers a modern, dream-like interpretation while staying connected to its intended heritage.