Les arbres

• Les arbres: Prix Ars Electronica 2009 — Mention
• First solo full-length album from Montréal-based composer Nicolas Bernier (Milliseconde topographie).
• A collaboration work with visual artist Urban9, who designed images inspired by the music (included in the elaborate CD sleeve).
• Nicolas Bernier is a rising star of Montréal electroacoustics, whose works, winning several prizes, were presented in Belgium, Germany and Japan.
• Nicolas Bernier’s exciting approach is inclusive and incorporates many elements from pop music. His work has been compared to Jim O’Rourke, The Sea and Cake and Matmos.
• Official CD launch and concert: May 28, 2008, as part of the Mutek festival, Montréal.
• Prix Opus 2008-09: Disc of the Year

Les arbres [The Trees] is part of a collaboration process between composer Nicolas Bernier and visual artist Urban9. The latter has developed visuals inspired by the music, while his images fed the composition of the soundtrack. Sonic landscapes and slow textures meet with precise articulations, all this resting on a minimal orchestration made of guitars, brass instruments, vibes, accordions and strings.

A stimulating record, a remarkable attention to detail and excellent production quality, making for an unfailingly rewarding listening experience. An important milestone in the young career of an increasingly vital figure of Montréal electronica.