Oriane Lacaille grew up in the French Alps. His dad, René Lacaille, is originally from Reunion Island, he is a very popular musician and accordionist on this African island, which belongs to France. Her mother is French Caucasian.
She toured a lot with her father from a young age. She has been part of several French Creole groups, but iViV is her first original solo album. Oriane Lacaille invents a Franco-Reunion sound all her own, with the help of British guitarist Piers Faccini, with whom she made a short EP in 2022.
Oriane Lacaille sings in both French and Creole, sometimes in the same phrase. In the music, we breathe as much the scent of Reunion as that of France, well seasoned with folk, jazz and even Haitian spices. None of this is forced. It flows from springs, warm and soothing. We hear ukulele, trumpet, percussion, flute, and cello.
Oriane Lacaille has surrounded herself well. In addition to Piers Faccini, we hear the American folksinger Layla McCalla, the French singer-songwriter Laura Cahen, and dad Marcel on a piece. As well as excellent accompanying musicians.
It’s a bit reminiscent of Bokante, the group that brings together Guadeloupe-born Montrealer Malika Tirolien and Snarky Puppy bassist Michael League.
Let’s be clear: it’s a compliment. Oriane Lacaille is a wonderful discovery. It is to be followed in the coming years.
