La Déferlance – Le Feu aux Poudres (self-released, 2022)
Formed in 2018, La Déferlance has quickly established itself as a leading act in the Quebec traditional music scene. The band is known for its lively, joyful arrangements of traditional tunes alongside original compositions. At the same time, La Déferlance’s performances reflect the diverse musical backgrounds of its members, which include experience in jazz and western classical music.
On Le Feu aux Poudres the gifted ensemble delivers a set of tantalizing and expertly constructed modern songs deeply grounded in French Canadian traditions, with irresistible rhythms using the traditional Québécois foot rhythms.
The Musicians:
Mathieu Baillargeon (piano, vocals, feet rhythms)
Mathieu began his musical career at the age of three, studying classical piano. His interest in traditional music blossomed in 2015, and since then, he has performed widely across Quebec. He co-founded La Déferlance in 2018. Mathieu has worked as a teacher of piano and accordion. Alongside his musical career, Mathieu holds a master’s degree in statistics and works at the Institut de la statistique du Québec.
Marie-Desneiges Hamel (accordion, vocals)
Marie-Desneiges started learning the accordion at seven. She has performed in various festivals and toured with multiple ensembles, including the widely acclaimed Noël à l’accordéon. Since 2018, she has focused her efforts on La Déferlance, continuing to teach and perform in a variety of traditional music settings.
Grégoire Painchaud (fiddle, guitar, vocals)
A versatile musician who began playing at the age of three, Grégoire has mastered several instruments and performed with artists across North America and Europe. He’s been a key figure in Quebec’s traditional music scene. Since 1998 he has also been the musical director for the Irish music group Rosheen.
Renaud Labelle (bass, double bass, vocals)
Renaud holds a degree in music and spent a decade performing on prestigious cruise ships, playing jazz for thousands of passengers daily. His extensive experience includes collaborations with orchestras and traditional music ensembles across Quebec.
Graphic Design: Hélène Bélisle
Buy Le Feu aux Poudres.
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.