Population II, a burgeoning name in the independent music scene, recently earned the title of Breakthrough Artist of the Year at the prestigious Gala alternatif de la musique indépendante du Québec (GAMIQ). This accolade was awarded last Sunday, marking a significant milestone in the band’s rising career.
In the wake of this achievement, Population II has unveiled a live performance of their song “Orlando.” This performance was captured on film and edited by Alex Acy. The footage was shot at La Sala Rossa, coinciding with the launch show for their sophomore album, “Électrons libres du québec,” which was released through Bonsound in October.
The band is scheduled to open for Jon Spencer at La Tulipe in Montreal on February 9th, 2024, as a part of the upcoming Taverne Tour. Fans and music enthusiasts are encouraged to watch and share the live video of “Orlando,” available on YouTube.
Alex Acy, the videographer and director, shared his thoughts on the live experience of Population II’s music. He expressed his honour and pleasure in capturing what he described as a historic moment, not only for those present but also for the “électrons libres” who could not attend and for future audiences.
“Orlando,” the opening track of “Électrons libres du québec,” has played a crucial role in garnering attention for Population II. The album received recognition from influential radio stations in Quebec and the U.S., including KCRW, CISM, WFMU, and CJLO. It also attracted attention from rock-focused media in France, such as Rock & Folk, Mowno, and Gonzai. The album earned an 8/10 rating from Exclaim! magazine, with positive reviews from Dominic Tardif of La Presse and Philippe Renaud of Le Devoir.
The album is available in various formats, including vinyl and CD, and across all major music services.
Over the past year, Population II has embarked on two U.S. tours, including a stint supporting the band Osees. They have also performed at the FME in Rouyn-Noranda and at M for Montreal. A list of the band’s upcoming shows can be found online.
“Électrons libres du québec” is noted for being more straightforward than its predecessor, “À la Ô Terre,” released in 2020 on Castle Face Records. The album was produced by Emmanuel Éthier and showcases a unique blend of heavy, psychedelic rock with elements of feverish funk rhythms, jazz philosophy, early punk energy, and a love for minor scales reminiscent of heavy metal roots.
Population II, composed of singer/drummer Pierre-Luc Gratton, guitarist/keyboardist Tristan Lacombe, and bassist Sébastien Provençal, demonstrates a keen sense of songcraft and mastery of their instruments in this album. The band strikes a balance between challenging compositions and memorable melodies.
About Population II:
Population II is a band known for its disengagement and continuous refinement of a sound that is both imposing and unpretentious. With origins dating back to their teenage years, the band developed a unique synergy through extensive jamming. Their independent releases eventually caught the attention of John Dwyer, the leader of the American rock band Osees and the head of Castle Face Records. This led to the release of their first label album, “À la Ô Terre,” in 2020. Following this release, Population II performed across Canada and the United States, including appearances at SXSW in Austin, Texas, and Pop Montreal. They are set to return this fall with “Électrons libres du Québec,” released on Bonsound.
Photo credit – Didier Pigeon
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