20 Printemps
La Compagnie du Nord, 2022
8/10
In honor of their 20 year anniversary, the Canadian folk heroes Le Vent Du Nord have assembled songs that signify rebirth and rejuvenation, where originals and traditionals are packed full of rhythm, gorgeous harmonies, and dynamic interaction between the 5 members.
“Tour du monde” starts the listen with glorious string interaction, where the bright melodies and strong attention to detail make an indelible impression, and “Dans l’eau-de-vie de l’arbre” follows with flowing vocals to complement the swift strings and festive spirit.
Halfway through, “Marianne” emits an intimate quality, as soulful singing is met with cautious, emotive string manipulation, while “Turlute du mai” is a vocally expressive and musically bare display of timeless song craft.
Further down the line, the warm demeanor of “Si vous voulez” makes this the album’s best, and “Petit reve IV” exits the listen calm, meticulous and with a worldly glow that will appeal to all corners of the globe.
The band’s firm Celtic influence is very much at the forefront of these songs, and the sublime use of accordion, hurdy-gurdy, fiddle, piano and Irish bouzouki makes for an uplifting and captivating listen for the longtime fan, as well as the first time listener.
Travels well with: The Accidentals- Time Out Session #2; Greg Greenway- Songs From The Beginning