Hafana

Name

The word Hafana is a Welsh variant of the original Havana, Cuba. Elin says she is fascinated by the place but also mentions that the title is a play on words as Hafana or more accurately hafan is Welsh for haven - "...a place to escape. Many of my lyrics are about escaping from things – even escaping from reality, especially the realities that hit you when you leave home and go out into the world by yourself." says Elin.

Recording

After writing sessions in Wales and London with bass player Sion Llwyd and guitarist Ben Main, Elin travelled to New York City. There, she spent time recording in Avatar Studios with Jim Steinman, and with Take That and Celine Dion producer Steve Rinkoff. Elin stated "It was an amazing experience – I learnt so much from working there". She then brought her music back to Wales, recording at Bethesda with Dave Wrench and mastering the album at Hafod near Cardiff. "Working with such an experienced team on Hafana opened my eyes to new ways of writing, even of singing" Elin explained. "And all that excitement comes across on the album."

Promotion

Elin has recently presented a Welsh music road-show Nodyn on S4C as well as working on more TV projects and began touring with the album's material in 2009. "I love playing live and meeting an audience – it's my favourite thing. With this album, I want to take my music to more people. I'd like to travel the world singing – then come back to Wales of course!" Elin said on S4C.

Track list

As all songs are in Welsh the English is available next to the title in brackets.