Drum Sheet – Matmatah – Nous Y Sommes

“Nous Y Sommes” by Matmatah, released in 2017 as part of their album “Plates Coutures“, represents the band’s return after a long hiatus, and it carries the weight of their comeback. The song addresses social and political issues, reflecting a matured perspective from the band. Lyrically, it deals with themes of activism and urgency, as the title suggests, “Nous Y Sommes” translates to “We Are Here,” implying that we have arrived at a pivotal moment, one where action is essential.

The composition of the song was a collaborative effort, typical of Matmatah‘s songwriting process. They worked closely as a group to create a piece that blends rock energy with thought-provoking lyrics. Tristan Nihouarn, the band’s lead singer, brought his vocal intensity and emotional delivery to the forefront, while Eric Digaire, the bassist, helped craft the driving, rhythmic backbone of the track. The song’s structure is carefully built to create tension, with gradual musical progression that reflects the urgency of the message.

For fans of drums, “Nous Y Sommes” is a standout track due to the complex and forceful drumming of Benoît Fournier, the drummer who joined Matmatah during their return. His drumming is a key element in building the intensity of the track. From the very beginning, Fournier sets the tone with a steady but forceful rhythm, laying down a solid foundation with punchy bass kicks and snare hits that guide the song’s progression. As the song builds, Fournier adds intricate fills and flourishes, particularly on the toms and cymbals, which create a sense of momentum and anticipation.

The song’s dynamic shifts are driven largely by the drums, which alternate between tight, controlled beats during the verses and explosive, open playing during the chorus. These transitions help amplify the song’s emotional weight, making the listener feel the urgency in both the lyrics and the music.

“Nous Y Sommes” became a staple of Matmatah’s live performances after their reunion, and they performed it in venues across France, including major festivals like Les Vieilles Charrues. On stage, the drums take an even more prominent role, with Fournier often improvising slightly to elevate the energy, making the live version of the song even more impactful for fans.