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Artist: Nathanael Larochette

Origins: Ottawa, Canada

Active: Yes

For people well-versed and passionate about their music, they will understand where I’m coming from and relate to the cathartic kick that comes from supporting your favourite “underground” artists. Hell, it’s this passion for supporting great independent acts that creates terms like “trve” black metal, or having breakout bands having “sellout” hurled their way when they attain wider appeal and success. There is some satisfaction to be had in enjoying and supporting smaller acts as it creates a more intimate relationship between the fan and the artist – like a secret club the Radio One-chomping-masses aren’t privy to. However, in some cases, there is a level of frustration that comes from certain bands and artists not receiving the recognition they rightfully deserve. One such case, in my opinion, is multi-instrumentalist, composer and producer, Nathanael Larochette. While he has many amazing achievements and accolades under his belt, and a thriving following for his many projects, when you listen to the sheer quality and lateral thinking that comes from some of the albums he’s produced and been involved with, it’s bewildering to me his name and accomplishments aren’t as well-known as they should be. And so, for this addition of A Diagnosis from a (Faux) Doctor, I thought I’d do something a little bit different and cover some of his finest moments and hope, if you aren’t familiar with his work, you’ll check some of it out.

Musk Ox – Inheritance (2021)

The Doctor’s rating: 5/5

Analysis: To my knowledge, Musk Ox is what put Larochette on the map, and for damn good reason. Initially a solo project created in 2006, Musk Ox has garnered a reputation for being a formidable chamber folk act known for its innovation and, above all else, quality. Inheritance is the band’s crowning achievement – a poignant, masterfully composed body of work that taps into Nathanael, Raphael and Evan’s deep creative talents. From the record’s impeccably complex songwriting and emotionally steadfast narrative, the album has this crushingly forlorn undercurrent to it that’s gradually met with beautifully nourishing melodies and hues of optimism. The profundity of Inheritance, its onion-like layers and hypnotic, descriptive writing style cannot go understated, and while it’s definitely going to be a challenge overthrowing it with future works, I’ve no doubt in my mind Nathanael and Raphael will accomplish great things in the future. If Musk Ox (2009) was founded on humble beginnings, Inheritance fully recognises the band’s potential and is a record for the history books; a modern classic that will surely be high-up on many people’s “Best Albums of the 2020s” list.

Prescription: A genuine work of art. Even if you don’t like chamber folk or classical music, its ability to sound modern makes it have a broad appeal among music listeners. Spin 3-4 times a day for a week, then listen to it as necessary.

The Night Watch – An Embarrassment of Riches (2019)

The Doctor’s rating: 5/5

Analysis: Arguably my favourite album from Nathanael and one I criminally overlooked at the time of its release. While Nathanael is always involved in ambitious projects that tend to be lengthy epics, An Embarrassment of Riches takes these precepts to the nth degree, and to vastly different places. Extensively more experimental than anything Nathanael’s done previous, this record has, debatably, the most lucid and expressive songwriting I’ve ever experienced in an album. Its production is massive, layered, punchy and dynamic; the songwriting is almost flamboyantly expressive and full of vitality, one that seamlessly merges entire genres together in the service of its story. The bone-crushing power behind “Mendoza”’s doom-y riffs, the seductive serenade that opens up “Land Ho!”, and the euphoric crescendos that occur during “Shamaniac” are just a few of the gold-standard moments in this lengthy classic. If you’re wanting to experience a concept-driven instrumental album with a clear-cut execution, get straight onto Spotify now and experience this very special album for yourself.

Prescription: I would say this is Nathanael Larochette’s crowning achievement and one no one should miss out on. Spin 3-4 times a day for a week, then listen to it as necessary.

Nathanael Larochette – “In the Shadow of Our Pale Companion” (2023)

The Doctor’s rating: 5/5

Analysis: I’ve never really been one for cover songs, but when Nathanael released his rendition of the classic Agalloch song, “In the Shadow of Our Pale Companion”, I was absolutely transfixed by it and to this day, still go back to it frequently. At nearly twenty minutes in length, this spellbinding interpretation comports absolute reverence for the source material, but quells the abrasive elements behind the original, stripping it down to its bare, serene beauty and making it completely fresh-sounding as a result. It’s a peregrination that resonates with me in much the same way its original counterpart did when I first heard it, but its tranquil disposition makes it more appealing to go back to if you’re just wanting to chill out. Nathanael’s nous and skill as a composer makes this track incredibly morish, a fleeting experience that will have you bemused by the fact twenty minutes has just slipped by. An absolute masterclass in composing and in understanding where the sweet spots are in the original, being able to draw out the best elements from it to create this unforgiving, powerhouse tribute to Agalloch.

Prescription: Beware: once you experience this track, like heroin, you’ll be hooked for life. Spin 3-4 times a day for a week, then listen to it as necessary.

Nathanael Larochette – Old Growth (2023)

The Doctor’s rating: 4.5/5

Analysis: Larochette’s solo work is, unsurprisingly, excellent, making a particular recommendation rather difficult, however, Old Growth’s austere approach makes it an interesting one that stands out from the rest of his other work, which is typically intricate in nature. On Old Growth, you’re getting elemental, albeit expressive and distinct pieces that have their own personality to them. From the macabre “Ashes” and moody “Shadows” to the warm-natured “Horizon” and “Leaves”, Old Growth is, by design, easy going and very enjoyable music to relax to.

Prescription: If you’re looking for music to relax to or have on while you’re studying or reading, Old Growth has you covered. Spin 3-4 times a day for a week, then listen to it as necessary.

Doctor’s Notes:

Strengths:

• The body of Nathanael Larochette’s work is disparate, innovative, and impressive to say the least.
• A heterogeneous and malleable guitar player that gets tangible substance and emotion out of his playing.

Weaknesses: 

• As far as studio output goes, the majority of it is second-to-none in terms of what it sets out to achieve. However, his touring presence is lamentingly lacking.

Diagnosis: In the last few years, Nathanael has become one of my favourite artists doing the rounds today. All of his work is excellent, but each project brings something different to the table. If you’re looking for something that indulges and relishes in all styles of music, The Night Watch has you covered. If you’re wanting something more foreboding and subtle, Musk Ox or his solo work will indulge your fancies. However, as a lover of soundtracks myself, all of his work has a cinematic flair to it – grand in scope and full of the kind of top-tier crescendos you are unlikely to find anywhere else.