| Jazz |
Some albums, from the very first measure of a track, impose themselves upon you with an undeniable clarity—such is the case here. I knew nothing of this composer beforehand, which made for the perfect discovery, allowing me to listen without preconceptions. A single measure is, in itself, almost nothing, yet it is often what distinguishes an extraordinary album from an unremarkable one. Here, there is a world fully formed, a bold assertion of personality, a creative inevitability, and a profound aesthetic sensibility, deeply rooted in a contemporary urban landscape. And to me, this album calls for choreography—each note a step in a dance, an invitation to graceful gestures floating through space.
Ariane Racicot, recipient of the Radio-Canada Revelation Prize in Jazz for 2022-2023, announces the release of her second album, Danser avec le feu. With passion and intensity, the Montreal-based pianist continues her exploration of a hybrid fusion of jazz, Latin music, metal, classical, and progressive rock. The eight new compositions on this album showcase her exuberance and her deep passion for music. Surrounded by her trusted collaborators, Antoine Rochefort and Guillaume Picard, she offers a suite of pieces that delve into themes of resilience, environmental anxiety, and the vital importance of following one’s instincts.
Though the composer speaks of a broad spectrum of influences, I perceive in her music something wholly proprietary—an artistry that tells its own tale rather than merely absorbing external inspirations. Her sonic vision is deeply personal, infused with a cinematic sense of storytelling that transports the listener into vivid, expressive realms. At times, one feels immersed in a film or a dynamic stage production. Yet, beyond this evocative quality, what truly fascinates is the strength of her compositions, the astonishing precision of her arrangements, and the interplay of rhythms and instrumental textures, which introduce unexpected elements in the most surprising ways—offering the listener the pure joy of discovery.
One cannot help but wonder what fuels this artist, what makes her so captivating. Perhaps nothing more than a life steeped in classical music, jazz, progressive rock, and beyond—drawing from these worlds the essential elements of her expressive power. If I find her artistry singular, it is likely because I, too, inhabit multiple cultural landscapes, affording me a broad vision of creative expression. And in this vast panorama, I find no direct comparison, no resemblance, which only deepens my admiration.
Take the time to listen—to the piano passages, to the architecture of the compositions, to the intricate beauty that lies beneath the surface. Yes, this album is certainly not for everyone; it is for those who appreciate true works of art. So step into this contemporary museum—urban, visionary, elegant, and poetic—and admit it: before long, you will feel entirely at home.
Thierry De Clemensat
USA correspondent – Paris-Move and ABS magazine
Editor in chief Bayou Blue Radio, Bayou Blue News
PARIS-MOVE, February 11th 2025
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