Album Review—Cascadia by Erwilian

Cascadia: A Stimulating Journey Through Haunting Melodies and Enigmatic Landscapes

“Cascadia”, music album by Erwilian is definitely the only one of its kind in presenting a tumultuous journey through an acoustic soundscape. The rarity of “Cascadia” is due to the unique approach to recording it live with over 50 acoustic instruments. During the production, the album captures, not just the music, but also the interaction between performers and audience. This live recording production strategy infuses authenticity and spontaneity into the album, seldom found in studio recordings. Thus, the ensemble succeeds in elevating the overall experience to a level hard to come across in the music industry.

Ensemble Info

Erwilian is an innovative musical ensemble known for their boundary-pushing approach to acoustic music. Their performances are not just auditory experiences but vibrant spectacles that engage both the eyes and ears. Comprised of multi-instrumentalists, composers, and arrangers, Erwilian crafts captivating soundscapes that blend traditional and contemporary elements in a seamless fashion. With a zeal for live performance, Erwilian’s music captures the energy and intimacy of the concert hall, inviting listeners on a dynamic journey through diverse musical landscapes.

Through their inventive arrangements and virtuosic performances, Erwilian has established themselves as imaginative contributors to the global music scene, captivating audiences with their rich and haunting compositions. As noted by the late music critic Michael Diamond, Erwilian possesses a remarkable ability to immerse their audience entirely. Individually, each member showcases virtuosity, yet it’s the seamless interplay between them that truly elevates their music to a magical realm, leaving an indelible mark on every listener fortunate enough to witness their live performances.

What sets Cascadia Apart?

Cascadia announces the artists’ ability to blend various instruments in a seamless fashion and showcases the ensemble’s talent and creativity. Ultimately, the album reaffirms Erwilian’s position as boundary-pushers in the global music scene. The album moves smoothly from songs characterized by grand orchestrations like ‘Fantasy & Dance’ and ‘Minuit,’ to more intimate pieces like ‘Angelía’ and ‘The Lark Ascending’. Hence the audience is entitled for a richly diverse and engaging listening experience.

The use of instruments like the hammered dulcimer, soprano recorder, violin, and century-old celesta help add many layers of depth and texture to the songs, immersing the listeners into a world of absorption and astonishment. Each track develops with a keen sense of energy and spontaneity, reflecting the dynamic interplay between the performer and audience in a live setting.

Mesmerizing journey with the tracks

1. “Cascadia”: The opening track sets the tone with its enigmatic ambiance, drawing listeners into the album’s world of mystery and intrigue, serving as a tantalizing prelude to what follows.

2. “Fantasy & Dance”: This haunting piece showcases the brilliance of violinist Keely Rendle, gradually building in intensity as the ensemble joins, making for a captivating and powerful introduction to the album.

3. “Animaux”: A beautiful medley led by Jordan Buetow and Bethel Melton on recorders, enriched by the ensemble’s accompaniment, delivering a haunting and heartfelt performance that resonates deeply.

4. “Angelia”: This medley of ancient European melodies highlights Buetow’s expressive recorder skills alongside an array of instruments, resulting in a gorgeous and immersive listening experience. Brilliantly supported by other artists too!

5. “Lark Ascending – Excerpts”: A departure from the previous tracks, featuring a piano and violin duet by John Hintze and Keely Rendle, showcasing their artistry and offering a beautiful rendition of Ralph Vaughan Williams’ composition.

6. “Atta Fossar”: Based on an original melody by Jordan Buetow, this piece features a diverse ensemble of instruments, delivering a captivating and evocative performance that showcases the band’s versatility.

7. “Wandering”: A medley of folk songs expertly woven together, with Buetow’s haunting recorder leading the melodies, accompanied by exceptional string arrangements, resulting in a poignant and unforgettable eight-minute journey.

8. “Minuit”: A soothing and peaceful arrangement featuring a fascinating assortment of instruments, creating a serene atmosphere that captivates the listener and invites them to immerse themselves in its beauty.

9. “Masters In This Hall”: Closing the album with energy and spirit, this spirited piece incorporates elements of traditional tunes, showcasing the ensemble’s lively performance style and bringing the album to a satisfying and exhilarating conclusion.

Take Away

What freshness they have brought to the world through their music! “Cascadia” is a testament to Erwilian’s ability to transcend genre boundaries and submerge listeners in a rich feast of acoustic sounds. I would say Cascadia is a captivating album that invites audiences to experience the magic of live music in its purest form. Go ahead and seek an immersive experience listening to the album and I bet you will discover some rarely inspired moments you will cherish for a long time.