KAOLILA

One of the latest bands to emerge is Kaolila, with a name that smells of excellent peated whisky (Caol Ila), no doubt reminiscent of a concert in Scotland. Not exactly Breton. Not exactly a band of Scottish origin either. Yet their debut album, Pilhoù, is a magnificent example of original, contemporary Breton music.

Originally an all-female quintet, the band has since opened up to guitarist Doniphan Laporte. Three female voices: Marion Gwen , Arzela Abiven and Faustine Audebert (also bass), herself trained at the Kreiz Breizh Akademi 2, joined by their guitarist on the track Frankie & Albert.
And then to carry these voices, three instruments, a guitar, a bass and the violin of Nicola Hayes, themselves joined by a distinguished guest in the person of percussionist Antonin Volson, a musician who has rolled his hump in a host of Breton bands (Nolwenn Korbell, Dour/Le Pottier, Fleuves...).

Their debut album, Pilhoù (rags in Breton language), is a musical celebration of women and popular traditions. With this opus, Kaolila invites you on a rich and exotic musical journey, inspired by the rag-pickers of Brittany (pilhaouerien), nomadic guardians of oral traditions.
Most of the eight tracks on Kaolila were written by Marion's father, Gégé Gwen. With the exception of three traditional songs, Ar Sorserez and Ar Plac'h Div Wech Eureujet, borrowed from the Goadec sisters' repertoire, and Frankie & Albert, sung by folk-singer Bob Dylan.
The original compositions resonate with folk, blues, jazz, old-time and even rock influences. An almost tribal blend and an alchemy of sound that give birth to a raw, luminous style.
The only downside is the album's visuals. The mauve graphics on a black background make the notes that accompany the album almost illegible.

Autoproduit - www.kaolila.com - Distribution Arfolk