Flore Laurentienne draws inspiration from contrasting worlds: the melodic clarity and
counterpoint of Johann Sebastian Bach; the narrative intensity and progressive audacity of
King Crimson; and the electronic minimalism of Hans-Joachim Roedelius. From this
unexpected encounter at the crossroads of classical, progressive, and experimental music, a
dense and generous sound emerges, with unapologetic lyricism and dynamic textures. While
deploying a unique and sophisticated language, Laurentienne's music seeks depth rather than
complexity.
On stage, Flore Laurentienne comes to life through a core ensemble of seven musicians. At the
center stands composer and keyboardist Mathieu David Gagnon, surrounded by a string
quartet and two keyboardists-percussionists. Over the past five years, they have developed a
rich shared experience of live performance, a natural rapport and an instinctive bond that
nourish both the project and the composer’s work. The power of the MiniMoog, the ensemble’s
emblematic instrument, combined with the richness of the strings, creates a captivating interplay
that draws the listener into a unique and memorable experience.
Since the release of the group’s debut album Volume I (2020), Flore Laurentienne has enjoyed
undeniable success within the vast realm of instrumental music. The project has won over
audiences and charmed critics, earning three Félix awards, a GAMIQ, a JUNO, and a spot on
the Polaris Music Prize Long List. The piece “Fleuve no 1” was chosen to open the CHANEL
runway show during Paris Fashion Week. Flore Laurentienne has shared the stage with
renowned artists such as William Basinski, Colin Stetson, Mabe Fratti, and Brìghde
Chaimbeul, and has graced the stages of numerous festivals, including Le Guess Who?,
Trans Musicales, Big Ears Festival, and the Montréal International Jazz Festival. The
project also stands out in the media sphere, having been invited twice for live sessions at KEXP
and receiving support from BBC Radio 6 Music, Billboard, Stereogum, France Culture,
Ouest France, Les Inrocks, La Presse, Le Devoir, Radio-Canada, among others.
