Taking their name from a popular traditional song, Les Poules à Colin are a new take on an age-old recipe: five childhood friends who still live on the same street, sharing a history of music-making and family ties. Les Poules are a dynamic and creative group turning heads wherever they go. Exposed to Québécois and other folk music from the moment they were hatched, these offspring of trad musicians were bathed in music, whether backstage at an international festival or at a lively kitchen jam in Lanaudière, arguably Quebec’s most musical region.

Despite their youth – they range in age from 19 to 25 – Les Poules have been a group for over six years. All five have blossomed into intuitive performers and together they have been winning awards, from Young Trad Vermont to Grand Prix Desjardins, as well as receiving grants to record two albums, Hébertisme Nocturne (2011) and Ste-Waves (November 2014). Launched to rave reviews, the new album has charted in Quebec and has become a coup du coeur in stores there.

The first videoclip, Ti-Mé, has racked up 4,000 hits after only a month. And Les Poules are in the running for yet another prize, Le Prix Micro d’Or 2015.The group’s sound is a seamless blend of their strong folk upbringing and North American influences that range from old-time to jazz, with some provocative and moody effects. Their repertoire is a mix of original and traditional pieces, primarily in French but with some English compositions, and reveals gorgeous vocal, instrumental and rhythmic prowess. Their adaptations of traditional songs speak eloquently to their generation while retaining the beauty of timeless music. Fiddle, guitar, bouzouki, banjo, mandolin, piano, bass and foot percussion form a rich and varied backdrop for their inventive arrangements.

With major festivals in North America and a tour in France under their belt, they are gearing up for the 2015 touring season and have recently signed with an international agency based in New York

fRoots, 2013 (article): “[T]he five have become seasoned players, with a new take on Québécois folk – recharging the music from within while at the same time bringing fresh elements from outside”

Penguin Eggs, 2014 (2 pages): ”Their impeccable pedigrees suggest great possibilities. Their new disc is undeniable proof.”

Le Devoir, 2014: “This group is truly unique!”