Hello, it’s great to have the opportunity to chat with you. Who is Flora Luna?
A: Flora Luna, whose real name is Geneviève Freynet, comes from Manitoba – a province nestled in the heart of the Canadian prairies. She is a Franco-Manitoban (a French-language speaker in a minority setting). In her music, she evokes the calm before a prairie storm: an electric charge in the air, a brooding tension, an uncertain atmosphere. Effortlessly and passionately, she seamlessly transitions between melodies ranging from jazz to folk, and from pop to rock, performing in both French and English.
It is through Flora Luna that Geneviève Freynet opens up to herself. We step into her intimate world, sometimes edgy, but above all, honest, self-assured, and resonating, much like her gaze and her voice. Her songs reflect her profound sensitivity to the world around her, and from the first notes, she captivates her audience with her enchanting and expressive voice that oscillates between gentle tones and passionate bursts.
I’m interested in how you began your musical journey. Did you always know that this was your desired path?
A: I come from a sprawling family deeply immersed in the world of music, where I was exposed to a diverse array of musical genres from a tender age. As early as five years old, a clear and unwavering aspiration took root within me – to become a professional singer-songwriter. Nevertheless, my parents, both artists in their own right, provided me with firsthand insight into the challenges inherent in pursuing a creative path. Consequently, I embarked on a slight detour before eventually recognizing that music was my undeniable vocation, destined to be my foremost career. It’s as though music, in all its compelling allure, chose me, and I found myself utterly unable to resist its magnetic pull.
Congratulations on the release of ‘Mon Sort’. Could you please provide us with some insight into it?
A: “Mon sort” is a powerful song that delves into the experience of being the focal point of malicious attention and intrusive gazes. The inspiration for this song emerged from a deeply personal place, triggered by the experience of receiving lascivious looks that harkened back to a desire for invisibility during my childhood and adolescence, when I was a victim of bullying. This song serves as a testament to resilience in the face of adversity, conveying a message of inner strength and determination to shine brightly in my own unique way. It’s a poignant and relatable anthem for anyone who has faced the challenges of unwarranted scrutiny and the desire to rise above it.
How do you ensure your continuous growth and development as an artist?
A: I try to not stick to the same routine, and experiment with new techniques, styles, and mediums. This helps me break out of creative ruts and discover new aspects of my art. I also try to connect with other artists and collaborate on projects as much as possible because collaborations can lead to fresh ideas and open doors to new opportunities. Finally, I embrace the process of artistic growth, I stay committed to my craft, and I enjoy the evolution of my artistry.
What can we anticipate from your upcoming releases in terms of style and sound? How will they differ from your previous works?
A: My forthcoming single offers a contemporary spin on the enduring allure of retro R&B. It stands as the sole English song featured on my forthcoming EP, radiating a playful and joyous energy that sets it apart. In contrast, the remaining compositions in the EP boast a diverse range of melodies, some richly infused with synths, and a delightful blend of pop, rock, and jazz influences. Each of these tracks features meticulously crafted lyrics, delivering a multifaceted and captivating listening experience.
Where are you located? Can you share with us how the local music scene has influenced your sound in any way?
A: I reside in Winnipeg, the capital city of Manitoba, nestled within the vast expanse of the Canadian prairies. This locale is defined by its isolation, with the nearest major city at a lengthy six-hour drive away. Our winters, at times, plunge into temperatures rivaling those found on Mars. In this unique setting, I firmly believe that the arts assume a vital role in preserving the collective well-being of our population during the extended cold months. It’s commonplace to find house parties where musicians come together to share their talents and jam, and these musical gatherings have left an indelible mark on my artistic evolution. As a French-language speaker in a minority setting, I have been influenced by both French and English music which have fostered a rich tapestry of inspiration and collaboration, shaping my distinctive style. On my EP, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with fellow bilingual artists hailing from the Canadian prairies, each contributing their unique touch. Notably, Étienne Fletcher, my co-producer, and Ponteix, who handled the mixing, have lent their creative prowess to the project.
If you had the opportunity to perform at any venue worldwide, which one would you choose and why?
A: If I had the opportunity to perform at any venue worldwide, my choice would be the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris. This historic theater is renowned for its cultural significance, and its long-standing tradition of hosting a wide range of artistic performances, including concerts, musicals and operas.
Performing at the Théâtre du Châtelet would be a profound honour and a dream come true for any artist, especially one performing in French, given the theater’s location in the heart of Paris, the cultural capital of France. The venue’s rich history and its association with renowned artists and composers throughout the years make it an ideal setting to showcase music and culture to a global audience.
Can we anticipate a forthcoming EP or album from you soon?
A: My first six-song EP called “L’autre bord du mur” will be released in the spring of 2024.
Finally, do you have anything to share about upcoming gigs? Also, what plans do you have for 2024?
A: After the release of my EP in 2024, I plan to tour in Quebec and Ontario (Canada) in the spring/summer of 2024, and play at different music festivals, possibly in Europe as well. Between now and then, I will be playing shows in various parts of Canada (notably in Alberta, British Columbia, and in my home province of Manitoba).