Generations resonate with Lady Pills’ new concept album ‘Renowned in the …’
Music has always been a bridge connecting different generations and carrying memories from the past to influence present creations. This sentiment is captured perfectly in Lady Pills’ latest offering, the album “Renowned in the Roaring Twenties.” An independent project by multi-instrumentalist Ella Boissonnault, this concept album delves into the aftermath of the pandemic on artists’ lives and careers, exploring the transition from celebrated lockdown creators to undervalued and overworked individuals in the following years.
Boissonnault’s musical journey is intertwined with her family’s roots in western Massachusetts, where she relocated in 2020. Inspired by her father, who had a significant impact on her musical education by teaching her to play the guitar, she found solace in the Pioneer Valley. Her father, a former member of the band The Valentines from Springfield, shared his musical archives with her, including a cassette tape of their songs. This nostalgic connection to her father’s music laid the foundation for her artistic pursuits, leading her to find a new appreciation for his work through the lens of an adult musician.
The discovery of a reel-to-reel tape containing The Valentines’ early ’80s music during the pandemic further enriched Boissonnault’s music exploration. Collaborating with Bearded Cat Studio in Mystic, Connecticut, she had the tape digitized to incorporate its essence into her album’s creative process. Reviewing these songs as an adult illuminated their political relevance, ringing with echoes of the Reagan era and mirroring contemporary issues. Drawn to both the joy and conviction in the music and politics of The Valentines, Boissonnault recognized the enduring power of art to convey poignant messages across generations.
Although her music aligns more with contemporary artists like Mitski, St. Vincent, Waxahatchee, and Soccer Mommy, Lady Pills’ latest album reflects the enduring impact of her father’s music on her life. Boissonnault’s perspective as an artist is deeply rooted in understanding the political undertones of music and the importance of creativity as a platform for expression. Her father’s music provided her with unique insights into his past life and artistry, fostering a deeper connection between their shared musical legacies.
Beyond her musical pursuits, Boissonnault’s interest in acupuncture underscores her belief in community care and social responsibility. Reflecting on her father’s legacy as a musician and the parallels between music and acupuncture, she envisions a future where both can be harnessed to create positive change and support within communities. The resonance of Lady Pills’ new album with her father’s musical past encapsulates the enduring power of art to bridge generational divides and inspire new creative explorations.