Poetic rock
Talisman is a poetic rock project born between a cabin built in a living room and several musicians’ studios.
Piano, voice, electric guitars, bass, clarinets and layered textures come together in an intimate, cinematic and deeply human universe.
Talisman began as a new chapter, both for myself and for drummer, arranger and producer John Shamir.
A return to something more organic
After our “electro years,” we both felt the need to return to something more raw and organic — almost like a return to the source. The idea of recording everything in a more living, organic way came naturally.
John built his rhythmic world around a very personal drum kit, enriched with African instruments such as the Nigerian udu, alongside traditional hi-hats and cymbals.
One detail often draws attention during concerts: he performs seated on a kilim rug, which has gradually become part of the project’s visual identity.
Composition and songwriting
All the songs were composed on my Grotrian-Steinweg piano, an instrument that once belonged to my mother.
It is through this intimate connection that the music took shape.
The lyrics were written in three different languages, as if each song naturally chose the voice it wanted to speak in.
Poems and sonic textures
The album also includes two poems I wrote, integrated into pieces that blend electronic elements with natural field recordings.
This contrast creates a unique breathing space between organic matter and more abstract sonic textures.
Recording and collaborations
The recordings took place between two intimate living spaces: drums were recorded at John’s home, while piano and vocals were recorded at my place.
We even transformed my living room into a small temporary studio (see photos), a space filled with focus, presence and creative energy.
The project was later enriched by:
- Antoine Reininger — bass
- Thomas Cogny — guitars
- Benoît Martin — soprano saxophone & clarinet
Why Talisman?
Because these songs feel like protective objects to me. Like symbolic fragments of energy and memory that I keep close.
A space of connection
In this project, music becomes a space of connection.
It brings joy, carries luminous energy, and perhaps opens a wider awareness of what we are.
A talisman, in essence
That which connects, traverses and inspires.
✨ Stay tuned — the first track will be released soon…
