La Petite Nicole 1. Interlude |
Montréal Quebec’s ambient power trio Torngat create majestic instrumental music that is at times as breathtaking as the glorious Quebec mountain range from whom they take their name. Torngat return with “La Petite Nicole”, the follow up to the critically acclaimed 2007 effort, “You Could Be”. This time around the band is sporting a grittier, propulsive sounding record that more closely resembles the bands live sound. “La petite Nicole” offers forays into dub-heavy elements of post rock as well hints of kraut rock and the occasional miniature freak-outs. Aside from these flirtations in new directions, the same sound that has made them popular in Canada and festival stages remains. One gets the feeling that the band is creating music for yet-to-be-made films; while cinematic references may be considered standard when describing instrumental music, Torngat’s creations are particularly evocative of the medium. Torngat put on a very energetic and inspiring performance and sound a lot bigger than a trio. The heavy use of organs recalls elements of Tom Waits and even hints at the pre-jazz era of Soft Machine. Up until now much of the hype about this young band has been linked to their affiliation to Chamber-pop sensations Bell Orchestre and the Luya’s, amongst countless other guest appearances with various Montreal projects. Torngat are an incredibly hard working group that will take their latest effort on the road and have plans to tour extensively throughout Canada in addition to dates in the United States and Europe. “La Petite Nicole” will be Torngat’s first album made available on vinyl LP as well as CD. |
You Could Be 1 You Could Be |
You Could Be offers 12 instrumental selections that gently take the listener on a whimsical journey that is at times contemplative, but overall gives the feeling of hope and possibility. The record has been impeccably recorded and mixed by Marcus Paquin. Like all recordings by Torngat, You Could Be was recorded in the country allowing the opportunity for the band to focus on creativity without distraction. The album has a distinct 70s feel, incredibly warm and lush with a very nice bottom end. Standout pieces include Bordeaux Boredom, which has a wonderful hook made up of French horn and the beautiful interplay of colorful keys and light percussion further shape the piece. Suite c) l’Océan, la nuit is a fine example of the balance of feelings that breathe through much of the recording, not necessarily happy or sad, but contentment found somewhere in between. Celebrating New is without a doubt one of the album’s stellar tracks. More upbeat, it brings the listener’s spirits up and nicely rounds out the journey taken on You Could Be. |
La Rouge 1 Nouvelle France |
All compositions by Torngat except "La Rouge" by Julien Poissant, arranged by Torngat. Recorded by J. Winston Phillips at The Farm in November 2004. Mastered by Ryan Morey at SNB, Montréal. Art and design by Philippe Charbonneau. |
S/T |
1 32mm |