Montreal’s own Annie-Claude Deschênes, widely recognized as the captivating frontwoman of Duchess Says and PyPy, recently unveiled the intricate details of her inaugural solo endeavour, LES MANIÈRES DE TABLE. Departing from her usual collaborative efforts, Deschênes ventures into uncharted territory with a solo album that promises to challenge conventional norms.
Set for release on April 5th, LES MANIÈRES DE TABLE is a collaborative effort between Bonsound for Canadian distribution and Italians Do It Better for the rest of the world. Unlike typical solo debuts, Deschênes’ journey into solo territory wasn’t a calculated move but rather an organic progression born out of the pandemic-induced lockdown. Initially conceived as a personal creative outlet, the album’s genesis occurred during a period of forced inactivity, with Deschênes experimenting with electronic instruments and sampling household items to craft beats.
Inspired by the ethos of electronic music pioneers, LES MANIÈRES DE TABLE is a sonic tapestry that seamlessly weaves together danceable rhythms with dystopian undertones. Deschênes draws upon her fascination with surveillance technology and obsolete futuristic aesthetics to create a visual universe that complements the album’s sonic landscape.
Thematically, the album explores the concept of table manners as a metaphor for societal norms and conformity. Deschênes’ avant-garde approach to music production and performance challenges these conventions, offering listeners a thought-provoking auditory experience.
Deschênes’ multidisciplinary background shines through in her live performances, which blur the lines between music and performance art. Renowned for her hypnotic stage presence and eccentric sets, she invites audiences to engage with her artistry on a sensory level.
The release of LES MANIÈRES DE TABLE marks a significant milestone in Deschênes’ illustrious career, which spans nearly two decades. From her early days with Duchess Says to her more recent endeavours with PyPy, Deschênes has continuously pushed artistic boundaries, earning acclaim for her electrifying performances and innovative soundscapes.
As she embarks on this new solo venture, Deschênes remains committed to her ethos of creative exploration and reinvention. With LES MANIÈRES DE TABLE, she invites listeners to join her on a journey of introspection and vulnerability as she continues to carve out her own distinct musical path.
LES MANIÈRES DE TABLE is released on April 5th. Catch Annie-Claude Deschênes live at select tour dates, including album launch shows at the PHI Centre in Montreal and Le Pantoum in Quebec City.
Tour dates
04/26/2024 – Montreal, QC – Centre PHI (album launch show)
05/02/2024 – Ottawa, ON – Club SAW
05/10/2024 – Chicoutimi, QC – CEM
05/11/2024 – Quebec City, QC – Le Pantoum (album launch show)
Photos – Yannick Grandmont
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