Le Diable à Cinq lights the folk flame

Tashi Farmilo

Le Diable à Cinq, a powerhouse of traditional Quebecois music from the town of Ripon in the Outaouais, is set to perform in Aylmer on February 7. Presented by the City of Gatineau, the concert will take place at Cabaret La Basoche, inside the Centre culturel du Vieux-Aylmer, offering a rare chance to see one of the province’s most dynamic folk groups in an intimate local venue.

Formed by three brothers, their cousin, and a close family friend, Le Diable à Cinq blends tradition and innovation with a chemistry forged through lifelong bonds. The band’s music draws from the festive spirit of rural gatherings, breathing new life into folk traditions through rich vocal harmonies, high-energy rhythms, and multi-instrumental arrangements. Whether it’s the fiddle, banjo, accordion, or podorythmie, each member brings a versatile musicianship that fuels their dynamic live shows.

Their latest album, Tempête, released in 2023, marks a bold evolution in their sound. The record was produced by Loïc Thériault, known for his work with Valaire and Lily K.O., alongside Daniel Lacoste, a frequent collaborator of Robert Charlebois. While staying true to their traditional roots, the album embraces a wider range of contemporary influences, resulting in a collection of original compositions and refreshed folk tunes praised for its energy, artistry, and growing musical confidence.

Since their debut, Le Diable à Cinq has performed more than 150 concerts in Canada, the United States, and Europe. They’ve graced international stages such as WOMEX in Portugal and toured across Spain, Latvia, Estonia, and Switzerland. In Quebec, they’ve played landmark events including the Festival de la chanson de Tadoussac and opened for Les Cowboys Fringants before 40,000 people at the Fête Nationale on the South Shore. Their 2019 album Debout! received multiple nominations, including JUNO, GAMIQ, Canadian Folk Music Awards, and ADISQ, where they won the audience-voted “Ma première nomination.”

Tickets are $15 for students and $35 regular admission, with additional service fees depending on the purchase method. The show runs from 8:00 to 9:50 pm. More information is available at www.diablea5.com