Desire’s music drips with cinematic nostalgia – born from snowy Montreal nights, vintage synths, and the eerie glow of Twin Peaks. In this conversation, the enigmatic artist delves into the Lynchian roots of Desire, the delicate balance between French and English lyrics, and the raw emotion that fuels their songwriting. From recording melodies mid-flight to weaving film and literature into sonic dreamscapes, Desire reflects on evolution, loss, and the relentless pursuit of creative reinvention. New album «Games People Play» is out now!
How has your collaboration with David Lynch influenced Desire’s musical direction?
Desire was born on snowy Montreal nights, watching Twin Peaks with Johnny. Without David Lynch, there would be no Desire.
Can you discuss the impact of «Twin Peaks» on your artistic vision?
Desire embodied a character straight out of Twin Peaks—draped in the slow-motion dream effect, bathed in cosmic electric night blues glowing from the screen.
How do you balance French and English lyrics to shape your sound?
I think in French first—it’s my instinctive language, the one that feels the most natural. Then, I translate that feeling into English, almost like shaping a raw emotion into words.
And for that matter what are your fav French language projects, if any?
For sure, Indochine. Their music has a timeless quality that shaped so much of the French music landscape. Beyond that, I admire projects that push boundaries—whether it’s classic acts like Serge Gainsbourg or more modern electronic and cinematic influences.
What role does visual art play in Desire’s live performances?
Visual art is just as important as the music—it’s all part of the same experience. Your life is the movie, and we’re just setting the scene.
Can you share insights into your songwriting approach? Most unusual place where you recorded song ideas?
Songwriting is instinctual for me—it happens in motion, in fragments of emotion. The most unusual place? Probably crying on an airplane, somewhere between time zones, with a melody looping in my head.
How do you integrate vintage synths into your production? What is the most rare synth in your arsenal?
Vintage synths are the heartbeat of my production—they bring warmth, character, and a sense of nostalgia that modern gear can’t replicate. The rarest in my arsenal? Jupiter-8, baby.
How do film and literature inspire your music? The last movie and book that left you in awe?
Film and literature have a way of creating worlds that seep into my music. Joan Didion’s The Year of Magical Thinking left me in awe with its raw exploration of grief, while the film Candy – starring Heath Ledger and Abbie Cornish—haunted me with its portrayal of love and addiction.
Can you discuss the evolution of your sound since your debut album?
It’s been 18 years, and my sound has evolved with every shift in life. There’s been more loss and tragedy than most hearts could handle, and that’s shaped the music—turning pain into something transformative. It’s a constant process of change, of finding new ways to express the weight of the world.
What are your plans for the next year?
Next year? I’m pushing myself even more—if that’s even possible. I’m constantly looking for new ways to challenge myself, both musically and creatively. There’s always room to grow, and I’m not stopping anytime soon.
For more: @desire_musicofficial
Photography by Radka Leitmeritz
