Montreal-based Congolese polymath Pierre Kwenders made quite the splash on both the Canadian and global stage with his 2022 album José Louis and the Paradox of Love, which won the Polaris Prize and was among Exclaim!'s 50 Best Albums of 2022. Now, he's announced his follow-up project: a new EP entitled Tears on the Dancefloor, set to arrive on February 26 via Moonshine.
According to a press release, the EP eschews José Louis's widescreen scope for an "intimate exploration of human connection," with themes of love, vulnerability and self-discovery. "I'm honoured to have collaborated with some of my favourite DJs and producers who have graced countless dance floors," Kwenders said of the project's collaborators, which include Afro-electronic titans Gafacci, Poté, Vanyfox, NegoO and Dogzout.
"Additionally, the incredible vocals of Pierre Lapointe, Lady Donli, Mopao Mumu, and Pony bring life and depth to this project," the artist continued. "Together, we embark on a journey through the dance floor, exploring our innermost selves and emotions until we ultimately reach a place of freedom."
Of the exultant lead single, he added, "'We Like' is a call to action — for love, comfort, passion and unity, but most importantly, to freedom." Listen to it below, where you'll also find the full EP tracklist.
Tears on the Dancefloor:
1. Everyday (feat. Lady Donli & Gafacci)
2. Clair De Lune (feat. Pierre Lapointe & NegoO)
3. It's Pony! (feat. Pony)
4. Tears on the Dancefloor (feat. Dogzout)
5. Merci, Beaucoup!
6. Ambiance (Ndombolo) (feat. NegoO)
7. We Like (feat. Poté)
8. Endless Night (feat. Mopao Mumu & Vanyfox)