Ar Log - VIII - 1CD

Recorded at Stiwdio Sain and produced by Geraint Cynan, with Aled Wyn Hughes as engineer, the new album, 'Ar Log VIII', truly represents the group's long history and what they have generously given to their audiences over the years - great entertainment while re-defining our traditional melodies and songs and taking them to the world as ambassadors of our rich folk heritage. The present members are Geraint Glynne Davies (main vocals, guitar, 12 string guitar), Dafydd Roberts (flute, triple harp, whistles, backing vocals, percussion), Gwyndaf Roberts (knee harp, clarsach, backing vocals), Graham Pritchard (fiddle, mandolin), Iolo Jones (fiddle, viola), and Geraint Cynan (keys, hammond, main vocals, backing vocals, percussion), with guest musicians Aled Wyn Hughes joining on bass and Carwyn Rhys Williams on drums. Keeping true to the unique Ar Log musical style the album is a perfect blend of traditional and original material. There are tunes from the archive and brand-new ones; old favourites passed on to the group by many a renowned musician, such as triple harpist Nansi Richards (Dafydd and Gwyndaf's first harp teacher), and a Plygain carol with words dating back to the 16th century. Also included are 'The Two Sisters' song cycle tracks released recently as an EP.

The new album is an opportunity to pay tribute to friends lost. Ar Log has been very fortunate to collaborate on several occasions with the late dear Dewi Pws. Despite his obvious wit, it is Dewi’s most profound songs that capture the hearts of his fellow Welsh compatriots best. 'Mae Lleucu Wedi Marw' comprises a simple, nostalgic melody by singer songwriter Huw Chiswell, and the sincere and clever lyrics are an example of Dewi at his best as a subtle and striking word-smith. The album bonus track is another fitting tribute, this time to one of the original members of Ar Log, Dave Burns, who died in December 2023. "When the group was discussing possible songs for Ar Log VIII", says Gwyndaf Roberts, on behalf of the group, "Dave proposed the song ‘The Rose of Tralee’ – one of his favourite songs when he was a child which was popularised nationally by Irish tenor John McCormack. It was a remarkable coincidence to discover that an excellent Welsh translation already existed, the work of the crowned poet and broadcaster T. Glynne Davies, Geraint Glynne’s late father. When it became apparent that Dave’s health would not allow him to come to the studio, the rest of the members of Ar Log made sure that his wish was granted and that he could contribute to Ar Log VIII, which he did with much courage. We present 'Rhosyn Tralî' as a tribute to a progressive musician, a faithful friend and a witty musical companion".    

1. Yr Agorawd 
2. Hin deg
3. Moel yr Wyddfa
4. Y Ddwy Chwaer
5. Pererindod Aeddan Sant
6. Dewi Sant
7. Sant Padrig
8. Bardd y deryn du a Bardd y Gadair ddu
9. Y Ddwy Chwaer - Ailadroddiad
10. Gŵyl
11. Taith
12. Mae Lleucu wedi marw
13. Rhosyn Trali