FME 2024’s lineup is a vibrant mix of genres, showcasing everything from rap and pop to neo-R&B, African rock, and post-punk. With nearly 100 performances spread across premium concert venues and unique locations, the festival offers a stage for alternative, novel, and singular music, bringing together up-and-coming outfits and celebrated artists alike.

The festival kicks off on Thursday with the Événements Sirius XM concert series, featuring Hawa B, a RANGE Magazine favourite who has been building her career slowly while collaborating with respected artists like Charlotte Cardin. Her iconoclastic music blends soul, jazz, and alternative rock, setting the tone for a night of diverse sounds. 

Orchestra Gold from Oakland, CA bring their fierce new sound that fuses Malian musical traditions with heavy rhythms and cosmic guitars. The night culminates with New York’s post-punk group BODEGA and a much-anticipated performance by Montreal’s Karkwa who recently reunited following the release of their first album in 10 years, Dans le seconde.

Friday’s lineup on the outdoor stage highlights hip-hop with performances by GreenWoodz, Rymz, and Souldia who is known for his candid storytelling and his 2022 ADISQ-winning album, Dixque d’art. Saturday continues the hip-hop streak with LaF, Haviah Mighty, and the legendary Quebecois trio Loud Lary Ajust, closing out the night with their signature energetic sound.

Venues and Performances That Push Boundaries

FME’s commitment to risk-taking and discovery is evident in its diverse range of venues. Paramount will be buzzing with the hallucinatory sounds of Mossaï Mossaï, the proto-pop of Alix Fernz, and the raw energy of Galaxie on Friday, followed by a Saturday lineup featuring Douance, The Wesleys, and Gab Bouchard. Petit Théâtre du Vieux-Noranda hosts a motley selection of music, from the feminist rock of NOBRO to the avant-garde electronic sounds of Marie Davidson.

FME also features late-night shows at Sous-Sol du Petit Théâtre du Vieux-Noranda, offering experimental sounds and groovy rhythms from acts like Aus!Funkt, Dope.gng, and the krautrock collective Patche.

A Hub of Cultural and Technological Innovation

Beyond the music, FME continues to be a hub of cultural and technological innovation. The Hub Desjardins serves as the festival’s central venue, where attendees can purchase tickets and passes, tune into CFME Radio Station (100.5 FM), and explore the Jardin numérique, which hosts augmented reality events and digital arts installations.

Festival passes are available in two options: the Passeport extérieur – 7e Rue (Outdoor Festival Pass – 7e Rue) for $55, granting access to all outdoor concerts from Thursday to Saturday, and the Passeport à la carte (À la carte Festival Pass) for $150, which includes a selection of venue concerts in addition to the outdoor shows.

A Must-Attend Event for Music Lovers

With its daring programming and unique setting, FME 2024 promises to be an unforgettable experience for music lovers seeking to discover new sounds and explore uncharted territories. Whether you’re drawn to the experimental beats of emerging artists or the electrifying performances of established acts, FME offers something for everyone deep in the heart of Quebec’s rich cultural landscape.

FME runs Aug. 29 to Sept. 1, 2024 in Rouyn-Noranda, QC | TICKETS & INFO