Q&A with multifaceted Canadian artist, Errance

In the ever-evolving landscape of electronic music, Canadian producer Errance stands out with his debut single, ‘Guidance’, a captivating blend of electronic and organic house. Released through Société Holographique de Montréal, this track seamlessly fuses synthetic beats with the warmth of organic elements, creating a sonic journey that transcends traditional genres. In this interview, we sit down with Errance to unravel the influences that shaped ‘Guidance’, explore his journey into the world of music, and discover the collaborative synergy with Société Holographique de Montréal. 

Read our interview with him below:

  1. Tell us about you, how long have you been producing music? What inspired you to start? 

Music has always been a part of my life; my father played drums when he was young, so I’ve always felt a connection to it. When I was little, we had a Yamaha PSR-32, an old digital synthesizer, which I believe played a significant role in sparking my interest in rhythms and tones.

I began producing music professionally about 10 years ago, starting as a studio assistant collaborating with various artists. Despite my deep love for music production, arranging compositions, and crafting sonic landscapes, it wasn’t until later in life that I carved out space for my own musical expression. This shift occurred about three years ago when I moved to the countryside next to Mount Orford National Park. The stillness, introspection, and meditation, combined with the time I had to contemplate nature during the pandemic, inspired me and gave me the space to create this album.

  1. The music industry is super competitive these days, was there a moment in your life that you wanted to give up on music?  How did you manage to stay focused and achieve what you want? 

I’m doing this for myself in the first place. So the competition is between me and me; what happens afterward is out of my control. I still believe that if the song is good and aligned with who I am and what I want to share, it will resonate no matter what.

It’s been a lengthy journey, filled with moments of overthinking and doubt. However, through consistent practice, meditation, and discipline, I’ve managed to carve out my sound.

  1. How would you describe your creative processes? 

It generally starts with a sequence of chords, a patch on a keyboard, or a sound I recorded in nature. Afterward, when I feel ready and have the necessary headspace, I bring this idea to the studio and build around it for hours and when i feel that the track is ready i bring in people such as Hologramme my studio partner to craft the production a bit further and after i bring in more musician if necessary such as flute player, horn section etc.

  1. Where did the inspiration come from? 

During long walks with my dog Pépé haha .. Introspection and nature really, especially in the spring when we feel that sense of renewal, it allow me to truly reach a state of peace and stillness. I aim to share that state through my music

  1. What’s your favorite track from the upcoming album and what other bands/artists are you listening to right now?  

My favorite track would be ‘Renewal,’ the last one on the album. It has a more personal feel, it evokes tranquility and nostalgia and  I believe it combines all the different facets of my creative process.

Currently, I’m listening to Jon Hopkins, Floating Points, Mount Kimbie, Tom VR and some old jazz records such as Dorothy Ashby or Pharaoh Sanders.

  1. What’s next for you?

I’d like to create an EP inspired by the nocturnal wonders of nature. By recording ambient sounds from the night, combining intricate rhythms and melodic textures, crafting a more upbeat atmosphere.