If there’s one record that I feel we need to talk about is Beau Dommage’s 1974 self titled record. The entire band was simply made up from a bunch of music lovers, who wanted to take things further, but into their own special way. And what’s remarkable was how at the beginning of their journey, no record label wanted to sign them. They somehow manage to strike a deal with Capitol records after just listening to their 20 minute song, “Un incident a Bois-des-Filion.” Don’t get me wrong, but it’s a great song that was later featured on their second record titled, “Où est passée la noce?” And what’s funny was how the label thought that they were a progressive rock band, and gave them a chance. Indeed they’re not! They’re just simply playing great music varying from rock and roll to pop. And also, I’ve gotta say that Beau Dommage has always impressed me, accompanying me throughout my university, and early work years. Sadly, I don’t remember coming across their songs, or even the record for the first time. But I wouldn’t even be surprised if I was even amazed. Do me a favour and just listen to their beautiful synchronized vocal harmonies, you’ll be amazed too, guarantee! And not to mention that each of their songs recounts either a different story, or an interesting situation. They purposely make you reflect on the problems that we as a society could, and are facing, incidents, or just expressing the romanticism about their native city, Montreal. And, It’s pretty crazy to think at how many projects this band has done. Recently there was a concert at Place des Arts called Beau Dommage Symphonique, where their music is being backed by a symphony. And the best part is how I’m still regretting that I didn’t snag those tickets!  But in the meantime, you can check this out. For those who live in Montreal, or just simply visiting, you can check out the mural of the self titled record located on the corner of St. Zotique, and St. Denis

The record starts off with “Tous les Palmiers,” recounting how one of the band members had to give up their dreams of moving to Florida, and heading up to Montreal, where he’ll be staying at the address, 6760 St. Vallier, Montréal. And please do me a favour, and don’t go ringing the doorbell, there are actually people living there, not the band members anymore. “La complainte du phoque en Alaska,” is beautiful. For not only its simplicity, but also how there are so many musical elements being incorporated within the middle of the song, where it gives you the impression that an orchestra is playing, but no, it’s the band themselves. The winner for me is the last song of the record, “Montreal.” A beautiful ballad recounting the struggles of the city, and how one of the band members recounts their past.