A Musical Odyssey: Hanoi to Brussels

The enigmatic “Odd Numbers” album by Le Motel (Photo: VNA)

Brussels – Belgian music producer Fabien Leclerg, the artist behind the moniker Le Motel, recently unveiled his captivating musical project, “Odd Numbers,” in Brussels. This unique creation draws its inspiration from Le Motel’s memorable travels in Vietnam, offering listeners a transcendent auditory experience.

The “Odd Numbers” exhibition captivated audiences, immersing them in a mystical soundscape that seamlessly fused the vibrant street sounds of Hanoi, the ethereal notes of the “dan bau” (monochord), and atmospheric electronic melodies. This project, a labor of love over two years in the making, was conceived during Le Motel’s transformative journey to Vietnam.

“My journey through Vietnam was a profound experience,” Le Motel recounted on his Facebook page. “I had the privilege of connecting with local musicians, poets, and kindred spirits. I immersed myself in the sounds of nature and the bustling cities, capturing these memories through field recordings. Upon returning to Brussels, I began crafting soundscapes that evoked the essence of my time in Vietnam, giving birth to this collaborative and multidisciplinary project.”

What sets “Odd Numbers” apart is its seamless integration of modern electronic music with the rich traditional sounds of Vietnam. The “dan bau”, an iconic one-stringed instrument, left an indelible mark on Le Motel. Through his lens, the instrument embodies both the soul of Vietnam and an indescribable sense of sacredness. The ubiquitous sound of the “dan bau” resonates deeply within Vietnamese culture, touching the hearts and souls of all who hear it.

A visitor, captivated by the exhibition, loses themselves in the immersive soundscape. (Photo: VNA)

Beyond the auditory realm, “Odd Numbers” transcends into impressive visual art. The project seamlessly weaves footage of Vietnam’s vibrant tapestry, from the bustling streets of Hanoi to the majestic northern mountains, creating a multidimensional experience that captivates the audience. The presence of tattooed dancer Dung Tran Quoc, with his passion for numerology, adds an enigmatic and captivating layer to the visual narrative.

The project’s name, “Odd Numbers,” holds a special significance, reflecting Le Motel’s fascination with Vietnamese culture and beliefs, particularly the unique symbolism attached to odd numbers.

“Odd Numbers” is more than just a musical endeavor; it is a cultural journey that bridges the gap between two distinct worlds. It showcases the beautiful intersection of two cultures, the harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, and, above all, Le Motel’s profound respect and admiration for Vietnam. Through this project, Le Motel hopes to offer Belgian and European audiences a window into the richness and beauty of Vietnamese culture.

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