Second album by Montreal-based saxophonist Maude Fortier (first full-length, the previous one was an EP), Echoes of Change demonstrates a solid and enthusiastic mastery of a modern language well-rooted in post-bop. Maude Fortier studied at McGill and the expertise inherited from excellent mentors such as Rémi Bolduc, Frank Lozano, and Jean-Michel Pilc, among others. We really appreciate the young lady’s technical ease, but also a clear, refined sound, pleasant in all registers while showing a welcome smoothness in the upper third. Echoes of Change is a program of eight beautiful original compositions.
Maude Fortier’s pen immerses music lovers in often morning-like atmospheres, carried by a smiling optimism and a satisfied gaze on the possibilities ahead. Two more introspective tracks, tinged with harmonic modernity drawing from the scholarly roots of written music, come to balance a highly cohesive set. One can already sense a mature vision in the young artist. Maude is skilfully accompanied by other young jazz talents from the Quebec (or even Canadian) Big Apple, such as August McKinney (piano), Juno Hamilton (double bass), and Julian Ferrer (drums).
Maude will give an album launch concert on March 25, 2026, at Balcon Cabaret Chic, downtown Montreal.
It should also be noted that Maude Fortin regularly hosts jazz jam sessions at the bar Le Bureau in Griffintown, Montreal.
