Homegrown Talent Shines Among American Stars at LASSO

LASSO Montreal Festival Highlights Diversity and Rising Homegrown Talent

A Festival of Two Languages

In its second edition, the LASSO Montreal festival showcased a diverse range of musical talent, particularly in the new country genre, which was performed in both English and French. The festival kicked off with Quebecois artist Francis Degrandpré on the Prairie stage, followed by Madeline Edwards on the LASSO stage. The two main stages, positioned side by side, alternately lit up, allowing the audience to move seamlessly between performances.

A Pleasing Concept

The alternating stages proved to be a popular concept, especially in the evening, as the headline acts exchanged the favor of the crowd. Artists such as Charley Crockett, Kameron Marlowe, Priscilla Block, and Tyler Joe Miller participated in this dynamic between stages before Jade Eagleson, Gabby Barrett, Jake Owen, and Kane Brown took the stage. Jake Owen, in particular, stood out with his energetic performance and his ability to seamlessly transition between classic and pop-infused new country sounds.

Spotlight on Quebec Talent

The festival also showcased a lineup of talented homegrown artists on the Ranch stage and in the SiriusXM Sessions space. Performances included Hay Babies, Lauren Watkins, Andie Therio, and Hailey Benedict on the Ranch stage, and Karo Laurendeau, The Wild Palominos, and Raphaël Dénommé in the SiriusXM Sessions. Notably, Raphaël Dénommé emerged as a standout performer, garnering praise from both journalists and festival-goers alike.

A Moment to Be Lived

Between performances, artists were approached for their comments on the festival. Andie Thério expressed her excitement, stating, “It’s an extraordinary festival, and I can’t believe I’m part of this lineup. Last year, I was here as a spectator, and today I’m performing my songs on a LASSO stage. It’s incredible.” The singer-songwriter from Beauharnois, who also works as a professional photographer, embraced country music as a genre that resonated with her values. She appreciates the familial and respectful atmosphere within the country music community.

Francis Degrandpré, another performer at the festival, echoed Andie’s sentiments, describing the country music scene as a “big family.” He noted the rising popularity of new country in Quebec, which caters to a younger audience seeking a contemporary sound. Francis and Andie are part of a collective of artists called Grande Ourse, who will soon be releasing an album featuring the talents of seven artists, including Brittany Kennell, Vince Lemire, Fred Dionne, Guillaume Lafond, and Phil G. Smith. Furthermore, Francis revealed that he is working on a new country rock album, with a first single set for release on September 15.

Embracing the New Wave

Karo Laurendeau, a longstanding presence in the Quebec music scene, expressed her excitement about the emerging generation of country artists. She praised their individuality and the diverse perspectives they bring to enrich the music. Karo herself is preparing to release new music that combines elements of rock with her trademark authentic approach. She emphasized the importance of the LASSO festival in highlighting the appreciation and significance of country music in Quebec.

Day 2: A Stellar Lineup

The LASSO Montreal festival continues on Saturday with an impressive roster of artists. Headlining the event are American superstars Chris Stapleton and the Brothers Osborne. Exclusive interviews with the Osborne brothers will be conducted by the Coops de l’information, and a comprehensive report will be published on our digital platforms on Sunday. Other artists performing on the main stages include Dean Brody, Elle King, Morgan Wade, Warren Zieders, Lindsay Ell, Seaforth, Tyler Rich, Nate Haller, and Lendemain de Veille. On the Ranch stage, attendees can enjoy performances by Trudy, Teigen Gayse, Noah Derksen, and Lydia Sutherland. The SiriusXM Sessions will feature performances by Émilie Landry, Emmanuelle Boucher, and Fred Dionne.

With a diverse range of talent and an emphasis on homegrown Canadian artists, LASSO Montreal festival continues to thrive, attracting music enthusiasts from all walks of life. This celebration of country music and its cultural significance creates a space where performers and audiences can come together and appreciate the community it creates.