Le Diable à Cinq is a Canadian folk music ensemble from Ripon in the Outaouais region of Quebec that was formed in 2015. They perform festive and energetic traditional Québécois folk music.
The group includes multi-instrumentalist brothers Éloi, Samuel and Félix Sabourin, their cousin André-Michel Dambremont, and their childhood friend Rémi Pagé.
Le Diable à Cinq released their first album, Sorti de l’enfer, in 2017. Next came Debout! in 2019.
The lineup includes Félix Sabourin on vocals, accordion, foot percussion; Samuel Sabourin on vocals, tenor banjo, fiddle, mandolin; Éloi Gagnon-Sabourin on vocals and piano; Rémi Pagé on vocals, fiddle, mandolin, foot percussion; and André-Michel ‘Brun’ Dambremont on vocals, acoustic guitar and bass.
Le Diable à Cinq Band Members
André-Michel ‘Brun’ Dambremont
From Ripon in Outaouais, André-Michel, also known as ‘Brun,’ has a diverse musical background. From rock to blues and metal, his musical exploration has been extensive. His passion for the guitar ignited when gifted old guitars by his aunt Michèle and uncle Gilbert. A devoted father of two, Brun aspires to leave a legacy of a thriving planet for his daughters. With an ardent love for nature, he is an avid hunter and fisherman.
On the stage, Brun at Le Diable à Cinq is a force to be reckoned with. His numerous compositions add a rock groove to the group’s repertoire. Behind his energetic performances lies a sentimental man, touching hearts with his words and leaving a lasting impression.
Éloi Gagnon-Sabourin
Another talent from Ripon, Éloi, brother of Félix and Samuel, stands out with his diverse musical career. A classical pianist turned percussionist, he embraced traditional music amidst rock and folk explorations. Holding a degree in mechanical engineering, Éloi’s multitasking skill is exceptional. Known for his critical thinking, he elevates the group’s level. An outdoor enthusiast, he can be found climbing remote mountains worldwide.
At Le Diable à Cinq, Éloi sets the tone with rhythmic arrangements on the piano, bringing explosive power to the group’s sound.
Félix Sabourin
Twin brother of Samuel and cousin of Brun, Félix’s love for the accordion traces back to his grandfather André-Jean. Despite starting at 18, Félix perfected his craft with masters of the “boite à piton.” Standing at 6ft 5 (ca. 2 m), his music matches his stature. Alongside music, Félix fulfills his dream of managing family land.
Rémi Pagé
Considered a brother in the Diable à Cinq family, Rémi, originally from Lochaber, brings a raw and distinguished style. A graduate in traditional violin and jazz violin, he takes the group to new musical heights. Born into a musical family, he honed his skills early. Apart from music, kite surfing is his passion. Currently, Rémi serves as the general manager of a performance hall in Buckingham.
At Le Diable à Cinq, he is lauded for his wild violin solos and constant efforts to break out of the mold.
Samuel Sabourin
Twin brother of Félix, Samuel’s self-taught musical career began at 18. Inspired by Ripon models, he mastered the violin, tenor banjo, mandolin, and guitar. A sports enthusiast, he excelled in university-level volleyball for Vert et Or. Alongside music, Samuel passionately pursues a career in physical education.
A creative force in Le Diable à Cinq, Samuel proposes song bases and spearheads new projects. As a spokesperson for the group, his composed expressions and contagious energy take center stage.
Discography:
Sorti de l’enfer (Le Diable à Cinq, 2017)
Debout! (Le Diable à Cinq, 2019)
Tempête (Le Diable à Cinq, 2023)
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.