Anne Bisson Sings for Audiophiles

Over the weekend I visited the Rocky Mountain Audio Fest in Denver, Co, to see, um, hear, what was the latest in the audiophile world. This is basically a two-channel event dominated by extraordinary sound systems and passionate followers. While the attendees are passionate about their listening equipment, what they’re more obsessed with is music. And that’s why it shouldn’t be a surprise to encounter a recording artist at the event.

Over in the demonstration area for Oracle Audio (turntables) and Induction Dynamics (speakers) I found myself listening to the lovely voice of Anne Bisson, a Montreal-based vocalist who mixes original works with a standard jazz, blues and soft-rock repertoire. Turning around in my seat, there was Bisson herself, sitting behind a table and signing CDs. What a perfect opportunity to find out what a recording artist thinks of the audiophile community that embraces her.

EH: How did you get involved in this event and the audiophile community?
AB: The first time in Montreal I went to Salon Son and Image (a high-end stereo expo) I discovered that the audiophile niche was perfect for me. The kind of music I make is right for that market. These shows let me get out and meet fans who love this kind of music—music combined with emotion. That’s important tome.

EH: What characteristics does the audiophile look for in music?
AB: They want a nice voice. The voice has to be pure. They are looking for arrangements that are transparent with definite textures that are harmonious. For the audiophile, sometimes less is more.

EH: Has traveling to events like this to promote your music made an audiophile out of you?
AB:I have some elite equipment like Simaudio Moon amps, and I will get an Oracle turntable soon. In my house I play piano and like the sound of live music, but I get more audiophile every day.

EH: Does knowing your music will be heard by such a discerning crowd influence your creative process?
AB: It doesn’t influence the composition, but it completely influences the arrangement. I’ve worked with Guy St-Onge as my producer and arranger and he has an audiophile-level studio.

Read the EH report from the RMAF here.