French singer-songwriter Laura Cahen has a rare gift: the ability to craft music that feels deeply personal yet universally resonant. With her upcoming album, De l’autre côté (On the Other Side, 2025), she delves into a world of poetic lyricism and genre-defying soundscapes, blending French chanson, folk-pop, and electronic influences.

The album’s cinematic, apocalyptic narrative follows the journey of two women escaping a burning world in search of love and freedom—a metaphorical exploration of survival, resilience, and hope amid chaos. Beyond its compelling story, De l’autre côté is a bold statement on issues close to Cahen’s heart: female empowerment, LGBTQ+ rights, and environmental justice. Through her music, she transforms these themes into a powerful call for reflection and activism, proving that art can be both deeply emotional and socially impactful. In this conversation, Laura Cahen shares insights into the creative journey behind her new album, how music serves as a vessel for activism, and the inspiring collaboration that shaped this project.

Q: You recorded the album in the town of Margate at Mike Lindsay’s seaside studio. How did that location come to influence the album? 

I went to swim every morning before going to the studio, I was one with the sea... I listened a lot to the birds, the sound of the waves, the rain... and I recorded them – they are on the record! Also, I live in Normandy where I can take the ferry to go to England, so Margate IS literally on the other side for me... de l’autre côté.

Q: Who are some of your musical influences, and how did they shape the sound and direction of this album? 

During the period of recording, we listened to a lot of Linda Perhacs, Laurie Anderson, Big Thief, but also Steve Reich, Os Mutantes, Brigitte Fontaine, and Anne Sylvestre... and I think this is a good collection to reflect what we were trying to do there – something between folk and electronica, a bit retro futuristic with lots of 70’s synths, as well as a touch of classical and repetitive music, all topped with French singing.

Q: On De l’autre côté, you collaborated with multi-instrumentalist Josephine Stephenson, drummer Zoé Hochberg and bassist Théodora De Lilez. How important is it for you to work with female artists and musicians, and what advice would you give to emerging female artists? 

It’s really important for me to work with people I love, and these are the best people I know, as well as brilliant musicians. But, yes, it means a lot to me to be able to choose the people who will be with me on stage, and I'm keen to showcase women as much as possible, so that I can sow a few seeds, perhaps, and allow young girls to dream of becoming drummers, bassists, conductors, or sound engineers… I’m not very good at giving advice, but for emerging female artists, maybe I would say, « Take your place, you deserve it! »

Q: The album reflects the turbulent and uncertain times we’re living in, given the chaos around us, how do you maintain the hope and inspiration needed to write music? 

I don't think I really have a choice, it's the only way for me to live without going crazy, and my solution for finding a place in the world. Also, it’s always easier for me (like many others) to write when things are going wrong, so… I’m very inspired!

Q: Many of the songs on the album touch on themes of longing and escape. Is there a specific place or feeling you hope to transport your listeners to?

I hope to support/accompany them on their inner journey, I hope to help them find courage or pride in some of their difficult positions or decisions, and I hope to make them think. Above all, I hope to make them dream, sing, and perhaps cry, but with gentle tears.