Hilgrove Kenrick Shapes a Winter Soundscape in “Winter’s Breath”

Hilgrove Kenrick’s Four Songs for Christmastime is the second EP in his series, written for Aefendreama (Ǣfendrēama, meaning evening song)—the choir he founded with conductor Chloe May Evans—and recorded live in the 900-year-old Leominster Priory. The focus track, Winter’s Breath, sets the tone with its wordless, ambient harmonies and Sara Brimer-Davey’s soaring soprano, capturing the EP’s cold, atmospheric character.

Aefendreama brings together singers from the Three Choirs Cathedrals and international vocal groups. Additionally, Kenrick’s background as a chorister and his work in film, TV, and game music inform the project’s distinct sound; overall, the EP reflects his return to choral composition with a seasonal focus.

Also Read: Sandro Ferro’s “Going Wild” : A Return to Light and the Earth

Winter’s Breath opens with an unworldly hum that immediately pulls the listener into its icy atmosphere. Soft, airy ooo’s begin to drift outward, and the sound carries a delicate chill, as though the walls of Leominster Priory themselves exhale a cold echo. The subdued melody paints a vivid winter landscape; like frost forming quietly on glass.

As the piece unfolds, the mid-section starts to expand—sopranos and tenors rise together, lifting the harmony upward. In turn, the melody swells like a plume of warm breath released into freezing air, visible for a moment before disappearing. Then, the voices climb higher, building toward a gentle but striking climax.

Checkout the latest news: Inside Record Store Day 2025 Winter Edition: Bengaluru Buzzes with Vinyl and Everything Analog

Afterward, the sound withdraws, slipping down into the altos and lower voices with elegant restraint. Finally, the piece narrows to a single high-pitched last crystalline note that lingers like the final spark of light in a winter dusk. Winter’s Breath embodies its title so fully that you almost feel the cold settle around you, the music breathing winter into the room.

Follow them on X and Instagram!