This holiday season, Chalumeau —a powerful duo composed of Katherine Bergeron and Butch Rovan—delivers a burst of rhythmic resilience with their latest single, “Candombe.” Infused with the vibrant Afro-Latin rhythm it’s named after, the track transforms heartbreak into an anthem of empowerment and renewal. Featuring layered horns, infectious grooves, and poignant lyrics, “Candombe” invites listeners to confront life’s challenges with strength and a forward-moving spirit.

In a recent interview, Bergeron shared : “’Candombe’ is an invitation not just to move on the dance floor but also to move on with your life. So, in a sense, the danceable groove is part of the message. The song is saying: don’t get stuck. Everything becomes possible if you keep moving. And the track helps you do that!”

The song’s refrain, “How can you stay if nobody wants you?” captures the emotional turning point of clarity and self-realization. As Bergeron’s evocative vocals shift from questioning to resolute, the accompanying music intensifies, carrying the listener through a sonic journey of transformation. The track’s roots lie in Butch Rovan’s reinterpretation of the traditional candombe rhythm, inspired by his early encounters with Uruguayan music. This rhythmic backbone drives the song’s energetic pulse, embodying its central theme: keep moving forward.

The accompanying black-and-white lyric video visually amplifies the song’s message, intertwining striking imagery of dancers and musicians with the music’s rhythmic vibrancy. The result is a piece as visually compelling as it is musically rich.

Chalumeau’s strength lies in their seamless collaboration. Bergeron’s heartfelt lyrics and genre-spanning vocal delivery blend effortlessly with Rovan’s innovative instrumentation, creating a sound that defies easy categorization. Together, they craft music that resonates deeply, weaving elements of jazz, blues, and world music into powerful storytelling.

Looking ahead, Chalumeau teases more music in 2025, including the jazzy swing track “Lies” and the French bossa nova La Vérité. With plans for a full album release and live performances, their journey promises to bring more moments of resilience and joy.

Listen to Chalumeau’s “Candombe” now and embrace the rhythm of resilience this holiday season.