FME Day 1 kicks off in Rouyn-Noranda

FME Day 1 in Rouyn-Noranda

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FME 2024 Day 1: A Night of Rhythms, Revelry, and Rock

FME 2024 Day 1 in Rouyn-Noranda is a beacon for those seeking the pulse of the underground music scene, where the edge of the known meets the thrill of the undiscovered. Nestled in the rugged beauty of Abitibi-Témiscamingue, FME is more than a music festival; it’s a celebration of artistic expression, a rendez-vous for music lovers, and a stage for emerging artists to make their mark. This year’s opening night set the tone for a weekend of eclectic performances, communal dancing, and an atmosphere of unbridled creativity.

Orchestra Gold: Malian Rhythms and Psychedelic Flair

The evening kicked off at the Sirius stage with the magnetic presence of Orchestra Gold, a collective hailing from Oakland, California. Dressed in matching striped outfits that mirrored their cohesive sound, the band exuded an infectious energy. Fronted by the charismatic Mariam Diakité, whose vocals soared through the night, Orchestra Gold blended Malian traditions with psychedelic rock, creating sound that was both familiar and novel.

The lineup featured Erich Huffaker on guitar, Jules Leyhe on bass, and Diallo Mbengue on drums, each member contributing to the band’s groove-driven sound. Their connection with the audience was palpable, as the crowd –young and old alike- danced with abandon, warmed by the band’s vibrant rhythms and down-to-earth charm. The intimate setting of the Sirius stage, nestled on 7e Rue in front of the Ptit Théâtre du Vieux Noranda, amplified the experience, turning the performance into a communal celebration.

Bodega: New York Post-Punk with a Twist

Next up on the Sirius stage was Bodega, a post-punk outfit from New York City that brought a quirky yet captivating energy to the night. With Nikki Belfiglio on vocals and high-hats and Ben Hozie on vocals and guitar, the band’s unconventional setup immediately stood out. The absence of a traditional bass drum, with Tai Lee substituting it with a floor tom, created a unique sonic landscape, a pulsating undercurrent that drove their sharp, rhythmic songs. Adam See on bass and Dan Ryan on guitar rounded out the group, adding layers of gritty yet polished sound.

Bodega’s music, a blend of indie rock with a touch of art-punk, was undeniably catchy, appealing to the young crowd that packed the outdoor venue. Their dual vocals created a dynamic interplay, giving their performance a refreshing texture that resonated with the audience.

TVOD: Brooklyn’s Punk Energy Unleashed

The night continued indoors at Le Ptit Théâtre du Vieux-Noranda, where Brooklyn’s TVOD (Television Overdose) took the stage with a ferocity that left the crowd buzzing. Lead vocalist Tyler Wright was a force of nature, dripping with sweat as he belted out lyrics with unrestrained passion. The band’s sound was a frenetic mix of punk and garage rock, perfectly suited for a rowdy crowd.

TVOD’s energy was contagious, culminating in a wild moment when Wright dove into the audience, continuing to sing as he surfed atop the crowd. Their closing song “Party Time,” was a fitting end to their set, leaving the audience clamoring for more.

NOBRO: Montreal’s Fierce All-Female Quartet

Finally, the much-anticipated NOBRO took the stage, bringing their signature punk-rock attitude from Montreal. The all-female quartet – Kathryn McCaughey on bass and vocals, Karolane Carbonneau on guitar and vocals, Lisandre Bourdages on drums and vocals, and Sarah Dion on bongos, keyboards, tambourines, and vocals- delivered a powerhouse performance. Their set was a whirlwind of blistering guitar solos, tight rhythms, and raw energy. The band’s chemistry was eclectic, with each member contributing to their anthemic sound and defiant lyrics.

The crowd, fully engaged, shouted along to their unapologetically bold songs about freedom and rebellion. NOBRO’s performance was the perfect culmination of a night that celebrated both musical prowess and the joy of live music that encourages you to free your pussy and just do some drugs.

As FME 2024 Day 1 ended, the air was thick with the promise of more unforgettable moments. The festival’s unique blend of intimate venues, diverse artists, and a passionate audience once again proved why FME is a must-attend event for music lovers far and wide.

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