In Laurence Jalbert’s native Gaspésie, a squall is a strong wind that precedes a storm. Before the squall, therefore, is the moment of great calm that heralds the tempest. Meticulously produced by bassist Pierre Duchesne (a collaborator of Paul Piché and Kevin Parent), the singer’s third album speaks of love, war, and heartbreak.

Jalbert delivers her warm lyrics with energy, wrapped in pop music tinged with folk, which suits her well. The songs “Les bleus du cœur” and “Pour toi” easily climbed to the top of the charts. Her raspy and perfectly controlled voice is well showcased by the cream of Quebec musicians, guitarists Rick Haworth, Jeff Smallwood, and Réjean Bouchard, cellist Eric Longworth, and violinist André Proulx.

We also hear the rich voices of Richard Séguin, Bruno Pelletier, and Claire Pelletier, who serve as backing vocalists. Always very accessible, always raw and emotional, Laurence Jalbert never succumbs to easy solutions or vocal gimmicks. Flamboyant, Jalbert captivates with instinct and authenticity.