Alexis Martin Ensemble
Les pôles volume 1
Alexis Martin – Drums, Percussion, Keyboards, Moog Synths, Programming
Jean-François « Fafoui » Gagnon – Trumpet, Bugle, Valve Trombone
Marie-Josée Frigon – Tenor & Bari Sax, Bass Clarinet
André Leroux – Soprano & Tenor Sax, Flute
Emie R. Roussel – Piano, Keyboards, Fender Rhodes
Sheila Hannigan – Cello
Mathieu Désy – Bass
Les pôles Volume 1 is Montreal drummer, composer, and producer Alexis Martin’s debut album as a band leader. Long recognized for his work in film and television, Martin’s distinctive approach to scoring translates beautifully into the free and deeply personal instrumental landscapes on this, the first of a series of records he has planned.
Situated at the intersection of contemporary jazz and film music, Les pôles Volume 1 is a collection of evocative pieces inspired by life’s many moments of transition: the constant transformation of the world, memories sparked by certain places, the endless wonder of childhood, and the search for comfort and solace.
The album’s title reflects this idea of transformation. Much like the Earth’s magnetic poles, which shift slowly over time, the music explores an emotional territory where perspectives are constantly changing.
The album features some of Quebec’s most sensitive and inventive musicians: pianist Emie R. Roussel, double bassist Mathieu Désy, saxophonists Marie-Josée Frigon and André Leroux, trumpeter Jean-François “Fafoui” Gagnon, and cellist Sheila Hannigan.
With beautiful lyricism and breath taking sonic landscapes, Les pôles Volume 1 takes the listener on an inner journey, with each piece offering a space for freedom and contemplation.
Release Date: Friday, May 15th 2026