Earlier this year, Ottawa-based singer/songwriter Laurent Bourque released his sophomore album Pieces of Your Past after receiving high praise for his debut album What We Talk About (2010). His songs evoke James Blunt’s ballads and some have also compared his music to Andrew Bird and Danny Michel. The ten tracks are mostly on the short side (“You Are” runs for only 1:49). The whole album is composed around fragmented memories of love that Bourque explores alongside more practical questions like what happens to a shared cat after a breakup (spoiler: Bourque keeps it).

Recorded in only a day to maintain a raw aspect and stay true to the emotions and the character of Bourque’s lyrics, Piece of Your Past is perfect for a slow summer afternoon. This album will take you back to that failed relationship you keep somewhat fond memories of and brings you to a meditative state, leaving you to wondering if things could have worked out in the end.