Chalumeau, the creative duo of Katherine Bergeron and Butch Rovan, captures the raw emotions of heartbreak and resilience in their latest release, “Candombe“. This vibrant track, infused with Afro-Latin rhythms and poignant storytelling, explores themes of broken relationships, lost love, and the unexpected places where truth and strength can be found.
At its core, Candombe reflects on the universal experience of being let down by someone you once loved—those partners who turn their indecision into your burden. Yet, the song transforms pain into empowerment, as its refrain evolves from a plea for understanding to a bold declaration of self-worth. “How can you stay?” shifts from bewilderment to resolve, offering a path forward and an invitation to move on.
The track takes inspiration from candombe, a traditional Afro-Latin dance rhythm from Uruguay often performed during Carnival. Butch Rovan’s personal connection to candombe, born from his early days as a studio engineer working with a Uruguayan musician, shaped the song’s rhythmic foundation. While not strictly adhering to authentic candombe patterns, Chalumeau’s interpretation captures the spirit of celebration and rebirth, urging listeners to keep dancing—even through life’s hardships.
Musically, “Candombe” features a rich, dynamic arrangement. Butch plays all the horn parts, along with guitar, bass, and drums, while Katherine lends her soulful vocals, keyboards, and harmonies. The production is layered and deliberate, punctuating the chorus with energetic horn accents and emphatic vocal shouts. The rhythmic interplay between the groove and the full horn section gives the song its infectious energy.
The accompanying lyric video amplifies the song’s celebratory tone while tracing the narrator’s transformation from heartbreak to empowerment. The lively visuals mirror the rhythmic intensity and highlight the song’s uplifting message: no matter how life tries to say “no,” you can always say “yes.”