Photo: Steel & Velvet
Steel & Velvet – “Orphan’s Lament”
French folk-rock duo Steel & Velvet unveil “Orphan’s Lament,” a haunting and heartfelt reinterpretation of Robbie Basho’s 1978 classic. Serving as the opening track from their forthcoming EP and short film People Just Float, the song distills the duo’s essence — stripped-back, cinematic, and emotionally resonant. With delicate fingerpicked guitar from Romuald Ballet-Baz and Johann Le Roux’s rich, earthy vocals, “Orphan’s Lament” captures a timeless sense of longing and quiet strength.
Gorgeous guitar work opens the release and instantly draws the listener in. As the charismatic vocals enter, they fill the sonic spectrum with charm. The performances are of the highest calibre and stay with the audience long after the music has ended.
We adore the magnetic melodies that are captivating and bring vibrancy to the piece. In addition, the stripped-back instrumentation allows the composition and emotive lyrics to shine through.
Moreover, the production allows the piece to breathe, bringing levels of depth and clarity to the single. One thing is for sure: ‘Orphan’s Lament’ is a memorable release that needs to be heard.
Musicianship
Guided by Romuald Ballet-Baz’s intricate fingerpicking and Johann Le Roux’s resonant vocal delivery, the track introduces Joshua, the EP’s central character, and sets an earthy, emotional tone. Rooted in folk tradition yet shaped by visual artistry, “Orphan’s Lament”, captures the quiet beauty of loss, resilience, and human connection.
Raw
With “Orphan’s Lament”, Steel & Velvet reaffirm their dedication to raw, minimalist expression — music that speaks softly but carries immense emotional weight. Their blend of classical discipline and folk instinct gives every note intention and space to breathe.
Loïc Moyou
The duo’s collaboration with filmmaker Loïc Moyou expands their artistry beyond sound, crafting a project that feels both intimate and cinematic. From their unamplified performances to their reverence for artists like Mark Lanegan and Robbie Basho, Steel & Velvet continue to honour authenticity above all else. “Orphan’s Lament,” is not just a single — it’s a heartfelt act of devotion.
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FVMusicBlog October 2025
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