Avatar are a ten piece instrumental reggae/jazz group with a strong dub flavour hailing from Ireland. Their music, described as both relaxing and uplifting has been influenced in equal measure by reggae masters like Agustus Pablo, King Tubby and the jazz sounds of Miles Davis.
To date the group have released two critically acclaimed albums Summa Iru (2005) and Like River To Ocean (2009). They have also released a beautifully shot and evocative music video by acclaimed Irish film maker Shaun O’Connor, which depicts the landscape so influential to Kennedy’s music. Avatar have embarked on a series of collaborations with a variety of respected international artists such as Ricky Grant, The Senior Allstars, Drummie Dan and Brigadier JC. Their live appearances are legendary generating great excitement and uplifting positive vibes and resulting in a loyal following among music lovers everywhere they play.
All compositions written by founder member James Kennedy are co produced , arranged and recorded with musical partner and studio ace engineer Tony O’Flaherty. Kennedy sites the rugged beauty of the Irish landscape and years of sitting Quietly as further influences. This combination has lead to the unique Avatar sound characterised by beautiful melodies and warm brass underpinned by flowing bass and drum/percussion Riddims. Avatar’s immense brass section consists of Paul Dunlea – Trombone, Roy Kelleher – Trumpet and Tony O’Flaherty – Flute and Tenor Sax. The percussion section features the great Laurie Hedger –drums, Martin Scharer –percussion, Eamonn Cagney – percussion. The superbly deep melodic bass Riddims underpinning the sound are provided by James Kennedy. Keyboard and guitar duties are provided by the wonderful Nick Moloney and Gary Keane respectively. Though mainly instrumental their music also features the haunting vocals of Aine Whelan and inspired toasting of Pat Johnson.
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