LAAKE didn't follow the traditional path of studying music at the conservatory or taking theory lessons. Instead, he found his unique way of creating music, blending classical melodies with electronic elements. This fusion has become the foundation of his compositions, taking us between deep waters and high above the clouds. His performances are characterized by the use of classical piano melodies combined with the melancholic tones of electronic machines. This unique mixture creates an alluring and nostalgic atmosphere, taking us through different realms of emotion. This approach is what makes his sound so engaging. With the release of his EP "69" in 2015, LAAKE made a powerful entrance that left everyone wanting more. LAAKE's second EP, "PIAANO," was a turning point in his career. He displayed his mastery of classical piano, intertwining it with the depth and energy of techno beats. The result was a collection of incredible tracks. This success opened doors for LAAKE, leading to over 100 gigs in France and Europe, sharing the stage with renowned artists like Laurent Garnier, Vitalic, and Max Cooper. In March 2020, LAAKE presented his first album, "O" (short for "Orchestra"), which can be described as an electronic symphony. This ambitious project brought together piano and classical instruments in a collision of romantic and electronic sounds. The album was recorded live at the famous Theatre du Châtelet in Paris and captured through the lens of Arte Concert, immortalizing the breathtaking production. Since then, he has continued to explore new territories and this is now being shown with the release of his latest LP, “VOLT.”
"VOLT" takes LAAKE’s music to a whole new level. The inspiration for the album came from a traumatic incident LAAKE experienced—a violent electric shock caused by a faulty light fixture. This shocking event sparked a creative surge within him, transforming what was initially meant to be a solo piano album into something far more electrifying and thrilling. Moving away from his previous release which read as an electronic symphony of sorts, and entering slightly more pop terrain.
We're presented with 10 songs. Opening with "VOLT", the name of the album and the first track. I have to admit this is my first time listening to something like this and it is amazingly charming and unique. LAAKE has perfectly balanced electronic sounds with classical instruments. The piano is delightful to hear but there's something more, something that completely blows me away and that is the pipe organ. I was expecting mostly piano but when the pipe organ began to play it was right in that moment I knew I was in for a wild ride. LAAKE explains the meaning behind the title of this song: “I’m not a big fan of concepts. I normally work on instinct but for this album, the concept had already been written, so I decided to make it a strength. It was now unthinkable for me to make an album without electricity”
We switched gears with "ELECTRICITY". Featuring lyrical work and voices mixed with playful jazz rhythms. Continuing our journey with "LIBERTY". Methodical and steady, almost primal. An explosion of sounds evokes this feeling of liberation. "SPARKS" keeps the theme of lightning. The piano is now placed on what feels to be a cello and wind instrument, like the previous tune a playful rhythm permeates, almost naive. I would like to mention LAAKE's sound reminds me a lot of the music from videogame composer Michiru Yamane mostly known for her work in the Castlevania series. She's a master at blending different genres, such as jazz, electronic, and classical creating very unique compositions. Reminds you of someone? Well, we still have more songs to go. "LAM" is kind of weird. One word comes to my mind with this track and that is "Caribbean". Yes, the sound feels like something from a faraway island. Mischievous and very lively. "YELLOW" is full of emotion, and the piano chords create a sense of tranquility. The strings add a beautiful layer of depth, and the drums keep the track full of energy. All in all, it's a beautiful track that hits all the right notes. The piano is once again in full force within "DONTGIVEITUP". Voices complement the euphoric rhythm. The melody is catchy and the mood is upbeat. It's the perfect track to just get lost in your thoughts. "ITHAPPENED" is jazz fusion meets electronic and the result is magnificent. The seductive trumpet stands out on this one. We hit the brakes with "MELODY". Soft and quiet, it's almost like a lullaby. It's the perfect track to wind down to. The gentle synths and piano create a soothing atmosphere. And we reach the end of the road with "EYES." The end of this journey is bittersweet. I can't help to feel a sense of loneliness, the haunting piano is now accompanied by an eerie voice. The mood intensifies as the track progresses. The vocals become more intense and the synths become more urgent. It's a powerful and passionate track that will leave you wanting more. An excellent way to wrap things up.
LAAKE has created a hallucinatory experience that transports you to a dynamic and ever-changing sonic landscape. The album's cinematic grandeur is impossible to deny. “I start with the idea that anything is possible in music, and if tomorrow I want to totally change my musical style, I won’t hesitate to do so”. This is an idea that is clearly shown in his work.
From classical to electronic, LAAKE is a musical shape-shifting chameleon, constantly evolving and reinventing himself, and constantly surprising us.
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