Experience the Enigmatic Sounds of Amonte Noble’s EP, River of Madness
Amonte Noble, the brainchild of Alexandre LaChance, also recognized as St.Laurent from Modern Loss, unveils his much-anticipated EP, River of Madness. This compelling collection of tracks represents Amonte Noble’s unbridled creativity, weaving together a tapestry of diverse influences and emotions.
A multi-instrumentalist with over 30 years of experience as a drummer, Amonte Noble eschews the constraints of tradition in favor of artistic freedom. His connection to the piano serves as a gateway to a realm of boundless creativity, where each note is a brushstroke on the canvas of his sonic landscape.
River of Madness is a musical journey that defies convention, inviting listeners into the artist’s world where intensity meets whimsy and beauty intertwines with discomfort.
The EP’s title track serves as its centerpiece, guiding listeners through a labyrinth of emotions and narratives. “River of Madness” is more than just music; it’s a reflection of the human experience, a poignant exploration of struggle, irony, and the blurred lines between reality and fiction.
Described as “peculiar”, “visceral”, and “provocative” by Amonte Noble himself, River of Madness defies convention and challenges the status quo. At the heart of River of Madness lies the theme of struggle and acceptance. It is a reflection of the inevitable path of suffering and the journey towards letting go. Yet, amidst the chaos and turmoil, there is a sense of irony and defiance—a refusal to conform to societal norms and expectations.
In the words of Amonte Noble, “I have a very strange way to build up my stuff”. This unconventional approach to music creation is evident throughout the EP, with Amonte Noble and his collaborators embracing improvisation and spontaneity in the studio. The result is a collection of songs that feel both meticulously crafted and effortlessly organic.
Indeed, collaborating with mixing producer Gilles Castilloux, the musician navigated the creative process with humility and patience, allowing ideas to evolve and mature over time. Despite the temptation to rush the release, Amonte Noble remains steadfast in his commitment to letting the music speak for itself, trusting that each track will find its way into the hearts of listeners in due time.
First off care to introduce yourself to our readers?
Amonte Noble, a proud Montrealer. Multi-Instrumentalist, 44 years old. I plugged my neighborhood’s keyboard to an exterior outlet 6 years ago and I never stopped building melodies since then. I’m a mellow drama boy with a theatrical twist. Been listening to tiny underground shows in tiny underground venues all my life… inspired by the unknown and the intimacy that one artist can create. Been searching for lyricism in songs. I based my song lists on artist who are bringing a vintage home lamp and a bottle of wine on stage.
Tell us a bit about your recent release.
River of Madness came out on April 6. Recorded in Montreal at the Treatment Room, Â It’s a musical journey that defies convention weaving together a tapestry of diverse influences. It’s a work that challenges the status quo. It’s a reflection of struggle and acceptance. Showing the inevitable path of suffering and the journey towards letting go. I didn’t want it to be dark but rather immersed in a feeling of irony and defiance. It’s a process of 2 years of work with many collaborations and the fight against impostor syndrome. It’s about facing your fear, it’s about being someone else where I can be uncuffed and free. It’s about creativity. It’s visceral and provocative in every way. Whimsical at times.
How do you typically go about the songwriting process? Do you have a specific method or creative routine that you follow?
I’m usually much more productive and creative in the morning. I live in a small flat so my piano is right next to me. I don’t have any excuse. Every song that I wrote and produced were originally done on the piano. I always start from there… then lyrics come to me following the shitty or happy mood I’m in… I’ve been writing all my life so this part comes naturally for me. Then in the studio, it’s a fun time… I never know where the song will lead me. it’s a combination of ”all hell is breaking loose” and structured melodies. I’m a contradictory human being. But every time I have an idea, I try it. Doing everything fearlessly is such a great sensation. I see things that are possible and I simply do it. I have the privilege to work with a great producer in Gilles Castilloux. It’s our 3rd album together and I feel like we are beginning to build something truly authentic and different. We really found our mojo.
Looking ahead, what are your plans for supporting this new release? Are there any upcoming tours, music videos, or additional content that fans can look forward to in connection with this project?
There’s a little tour coming up next fall as we are preparing shows that will be more intimate compared to what we hear on the album. I also plan to do a music video with Son of Gun shortly. I’m in contact with a visual concept as well to make something quite complimentary for the upcoming shows. Would love to take a full year to make a bigger tour in North America or Europe.
Looking back on your musical career, is there a particular moment or accomplishment that you consider a turning point or a highlight?
Being alone in this project is very challenging. I’m proud of what I accomplished. I was listening to the album this morning and I’m proud of what I did. It’s funny how the song River of Madness is a reflection on this… I went solo solo, to the dark river of Maness. Talking about the others as well… ”they were claiming to be famous, Claim all you want I know you’re not.” is a reference to all this craziness of trying to be the next big thing. But I realize that I’m just happy where I’m at right now. Being able to show what you have in your soul and in your spirit should be the ultimate reward. And I know that there will be more accomplishments coming as I’m solidifying my identity as an artist.
Last but not least, it’s time to pay it forward, what upcoming band or artist would you recommend your fans check out?
So many bands out there!!! I don’t know but I like everything that clashes. Tim Fite, Adult Jazz, The Destroyers, Spencer Krug and Sunset Rubdown, Lambchop, The Antlers, Bremer/McCoy, Kevin Morby, Deem Spencer, Andy Shauf, Sun Kil Moon, etc..