Francis Mercier’s Debut Album Drips with Global Influences

5 days ago 28

**The soundscapes on Francis Mercier’s debut album Lakay (Home) draw from influences from Africa, the Middle East, Haiti, and beyond.**

Haitian DJ and producer Francis Mercier has solidified his place at the top of the Afro house scene over the years. From some of the most beloved releases to sets that have kept crowds dancing from start to finish, the Solèy label boss continues to impress and influence tastemakers and fans alike. Now, he’s blended his signature rhythms and global influences together and wrapped them all up in a nice bow for the release of his debut album, Lakay (Home).

“It’s a tribute to every corner of the world that has welcomed me like home,” Francis Mercier said about the album. And within seconds after pressing play on Lakay (Home), you’ll be swept away on a journey to some of the places that have inspired him, from Africa and the Middle East to the Caribbean and more.

Glance at the tracklist, and you’ll find that one of the most prominent aspects of the album is its collaborative nature. Of the 20 tracks that grace it, only one, “Inansoma,” stands as a solo single. The rest see some impressive artists ranging from Wyclef Jean and Kah-Lo to ZAMA and Mahmut Orhan, join Francis Mercier to craft sensational soundscapes.

Tracks like “Like What I Like” with Ginton and Valentino Rose, “Sawa” with Emmanuel Jal, “U&I” with ZAMA, and the previously released single “Champagne” with MASSALA and Lex Blaze showcase Mercier’s ability to marry vocal layers, percussion, and other sonic elements together in harmony. Not to mention that his take on Robin S‘s iconic hit “Show Me Love” is an absolute bop.

While those were clearly made with the dancefloor in mind, others, such as “Killing Me Softly” with AWEN and “Stay,” which features K-Zaka and Starr Healer, offer different atmospheres to immerse yourself in.

If there’s one big takeaway from Lakay (Home), it’s that music unites us all. The elements from global dance music communities layered throughout these soundscapes are an homage to the love that Francis Mercier has received from different communities and diasporas. Positivity and multiculturalism in this chaotic world might seem difficult to find, at times, but albums like this one showcase how beautiful our connection with each other can be.

Give Lakay (Home) a spin on Spotify or your preferred platform, and stay tuned for more from Francis Mercier by following his social media channels.