Classically trained and jazz pianist Francis Grégoire, who hails from Île d’Orléans and is based in Quebec City, has released his first opus for life, aptly entitled Prologue. One imagines that other chapters will be added one day, which would be desirable. Indeed, Prologue is an excellent jazz album informed by various influences, especially prog rock. Grégoire cites Steven Wilson (of Porcupine Tree) among his preferred musical sources. To this, for the jazz side of things, I’d add Alain Caron, whose implicit presence hovers over several tracks. The epic Caravan cover would certainly not displease the ex-UZEB. Grégoire also invokes film music in his list of inspirations, which can be detected in the strongly expansive, panoramic character of his compositions (Caravan is the only “cover” on the program). Lots of guitars and post-prog keyboards envelop a general framework in which the drums also manage to pull their weight. This is less true of the strings (Quatuor Créma) who, apart from a few moments revealed here and there, are pretty much left behind by the decibel power generated by their partners.
Prologue is an energetic, muscular jazz album that is sure to please lovers of electrified music.
A launch concert will be held on October 19 at the Palais Montcalm in Quebec City. No date announced for Montreal, unfortunately. We hope there will be one in the future, to ensure good exposure for this young artist.
Francis Grégoire: piano, keyboards, sound design
Gabriel Cyr: guitars
Damien-Jade Cyr: saxophones, flute and auxiliary percussion
Carl Mayotte: bass
Stéphane Chamberland: drums
Olivier Bussières: percussion (Aeolus)
Quatuor Crema: Inti Manzi (violin), Jean-Michel Marois (violin), Annie Morrier (viola) and Rachel Baillargeon (cello)
