Elle a son mot á dire
Ambiances Magnétiques, 2025
9/10
Listen to Elle a son mot á dire
The conductor, vocalist and alto saxophonist Joane Hétu brings her avant-pop background to these experimental tracks that employ the Ensemble SuperMusique.
The distinct title track opens with Sarah Albu’s inviting voice that acts like an instrument amid Julie Houle’s well timed tuba, and “Elle n’est pas un animal” arrives soon after with Luzio Altobelli’s bright accordion that suits the many voices and ‘found object’ type noises.
Landing in the middle, “Avoir le motton” welcomes Émilie Fortin’s animated trumpet and Noam Bierstone lively percussion to a very rich album highlight, while “Lumiére” benefits greatly from Michel F Côté’s electronic manipulation alongside Albu’s expressive pipes.
Further still, “Elle a dit oui” has the voices layered strategically and Hétu’s colorful sax present with much creativity, and “Elle qui est-elle? exits with a very animated demeanor that blends the wind, brass and percussion with distinct singing.
Mostly new but some older pieces are present, as Hétu fleshes out harmonics, rhythm, and strong attention to tonality with an iconoclastic spirit.
Travels well with: No Hay Bando- Il Teatro Rosso; Nick Storring- Mirante