Camille Delaquise, known for her lyrical depth and evocative soundscapes in works like ‘Living on the Edge of Time’, takes a bold step into purely instrumental territory with her latest release, ‘The Road Not Yet Taken’. Moving away from the vocal-driven narratives of her previous work, where songs like ‘Strange Weather’ and ‘The Temple of Neon Lights’ showcased her poetic prowess, Camille allows the piano to become the sole narrator in her latest composition, weaving a tale of introspection and emotional exploration.
A neoclassical piano piece, ‘The Road Not Yet Taken’ is, at least on the surface, a quiet and unassuming release. It's a world constructed from delicate, almost solitary piano keys that seamlessly blend into one another, drifting together to form a warm, melodic space. There's a sense of gentle elegance and grace, with each tone adding to the soft, emotive melody that lingers at the heart of the song. It’s a composition where emotion takes centre stage, fluctuating between moments of hopeful optimism and soft-spoken hesitancy about what is still to come.
The song invites listeners to join Camille on a journey of exploration and illumination, witnessing the unravelling of truth through the transformative power of music. It's a testament to her versatility as an artist, proving that her artistry extends far beyond words, and that the piano itself remains a powerful vessel for poetic expression.
Camille, a Melbourne-based poet, artist, and singer-songwriter, brings her deep appreciation for language and the power of art to this instrumental work. As she explains, "For me poetry is a way to dissect ideas, to hold up language for a closer examination. Poetry is the formula that uncovers the truth, identifying what is really being said and why, it is our story to tell, the knowledge we pass on. Language is the foundation from which we build everything.”
The artist’s journey, marked by a transition in her artistic identity from Camille Barr to Camille Delaquise, reflects a deeper narrative of growth and self-discovery. As she states, "This represents a transition in my artistic identity, a journey of growth and self-discovery. While my older work reflects a different chapter in my life, my newer pieces embody the evolution and authenticity of who I am today. Each signature tells a story, marking a moment in time and capturing the essence of my creative evolution.”
This evolution is perfectly illustrated in the shift from lyrical storytelling to the pure emotional expression found in ‘The Road Not Yet Taken’. It’s a compelling reflection and an authentic piece of music that will reward careful and repeated listening.
For more from Camile, including her poetry and art, be sure to check out her website, or connect via Instagram and Facebook.
Photo by Tajette O'Halloran.
