As much as Nouvelle vie is Souldia’s twelfth album in 15 years as a recording artist, he truly believes that it is indeed his first. In other words, the Limoilou-born rapper, whose life has included brushes with the judicial system and stays in youth centres, feels like this project is a renaissance. It makes sense, considering the soon-to-be 40-year-old man became a father, moved to the suburbs, and has learned to better control on his inner demons. It therefore comes as no surprise that the album reveals a more mature and, dare we say, wise man. He nonetheless avoids moralizing, and is open to tread more diversified musical paths, even if it means de-stabilizing his lifelong fans. And don’t go thinking that because both his children are featured on the album, he’s entirely given up his hard-hitting attitude. What he’s learned, and displays here, is the ability to vent rage when necessary, while also not being afraid to be tender when the subject matter calls for it. Case in point, “A pour Amour,” featuring his nine-year-old daughter Sophia, or “Ceci n’est pas une chanson triste,” in memory of his late mother. In other words, this is an album that hits the bullseye, once more, and might very well give him access to a new and wider audience. Souldia kindly accepted Paroles & Musique’s invitation to present his new album.
Select the image to access the SOCAN YouTube interview video with Souldia