After the 2007 split of the award-winning Canadian vocal group Madrigaïa, three of its members decided to continue their musical journey with a new group, Chic Gamine. Like Madrigaïa, their music is a fusion of gospel, soul, and roots music, influenced by different cultures that emphasize the voice as the primary instrument.
The group performs African, Middle Eastern, and South American songs, as well as French-Canadian folk tunes and original compositions. They combine powerhouse vocals with percussion to create a tantalizing emotional soundscape. Their mingling melodies seep effortlessly into our ears. Listen closely and you may hear a set of spoons being pushed across a washboard or the clang of bells and other such instruments accompanying the ethereal harmonies.
Chic Gamine at the Buckman Performing and Fine Arts Center on Saturday, May 3rd, at 8 p.m. Tickets are $25.