Since 1976,
La Bottine Souriante has specialized in "Quebecois" music, a French-Canadian form that has quite a bit in common with Irish, Scottish and Celtic folk. This is hardly a band that's known for playing an abundance of
Edith Piaf songs and haunting Parisian ballads. Far from melancholy, songs like "Le Festin de Campagne" and "La Reve Du Queteux" have an upbeat, extroverted optimism that definitely parallels the traditions of Ireland and Scotland. From the French-language vocals of Martin Racine (a strong violinist) to Michel Bordaleau's mandolin and
Yves Lambert's accordion,
Je Voudrais Changer D'Chapeau overflows with warmth, vitality and good spirits. As unavoidable as the Irish and Scottish/Celtic comparisons are, this CD points to the fact that "Quebois" music has a charm and richness of its own. ~ Alex Henderson