Saxophonists
Jean Derome and
Joane Hétu are life partners.
Nous Perçons les Oreilles (We Pierce Ears) is a family project -- even the cover artwork is a drawing by daughter Léa.
Derome is known either for his funny avant-garde rock/jazz music with
Les Granules and his band Les Dangereux Zhoms or for his theater/dance music.
Joane Hétu has worked with Montreal avant-rock bands
Wondeur Brass, Justine, and her own Castor et Compagnie. This duo is a lot harsher and more extreme than anything they have released on record.
Nous Perçons les Oreilles is a free improvisation session with both musicians playing saxophones and using their voice as an instrument (something
Hétu is very good at), plus
Derome plays numerous small instruments such as melodica, ocarina, and bird calls. Improvisations remain short (mostly three to five minutes), allowing frequent changes in settings. "La Ouate" is one the best moments on the CD: communication is perfect here,
Hétu delivers an inspired (and deranged) vocal performance while
Derome goes back and forth between a wide array of small instruments. The experience is intended to be ear-piercing and casual Ambiances Magnétiques listeners might feel lost, but fans of demanding music will discover talented improvisers rarely heard on record in such small settings. ~ François Couture