GAYANCE - Mascarade
Rhythm Section International
Released March 3rd, 2023
We are here once again, looking at quality Canadian releases for the Cups N Cakes Network. Something about this time of year always creates excitement, warm weather activities, seeing friends the winter has kept aloof, and of course, great new releases from Canadian artists. This time we have the latest release from Gayance, who has joined forces with Rhythm Section International for her debut album Mascarade. A non-stop motion that flows between dreamy vocals and beat-driven dance tracks while playing with majestic lyrical deliveries.
Mascarade is an essential group of dancefloor-ready tracks which host interesting drum sections, playing off a bright but contemplative narrative threaded throughout the release. In her own words, "It's the story of my 20s. I wanted to pay homage to this kid everybody knew, but not deeply. It's about taking back a power that is mine and was always in my hands -- It's about making peace with the past and moving forward." Gayance (real name Aïsha Vertus) takes her alias from the Haitian Creole word for joyfulness.
Based in Amsterdam but born and raised in Montreal, the artist began as a DJ in 2013 and has toured extensively, bringing her fun and eclectic musical styling to many different dance floors. This experience as a DJ allowed this artist to develop a keen understanding of rhythm and how to craft songs that are both thoughtful and highly danceable. The songs on Mascarade are balanced by the beautiful vocal melodies throughout the record. Still, undeniable instrumental lines also create a rich tapestry that a listener can’t help but get involved with.
This album provides a variety of expressive tones and elements that create opportunities for fans of many styles to find something they gravitate toward and want to experience further. The productions certainly have a tecno influence at times. Still, they are lovingly accompanied by elements of blues, jazz, and gospel, fusing these different elements into something thats truly unique and spellbinding. This album doesn’t stop and will be essential listening all summer long, and it will be an excellent fit for any fan of other Rhythm Section International releases.
- Earl D
