Meet Montreal supergroup Fredy V & The Foundation, led by Senegalese–Cape Verdean multihyphenate Fredy V and longtime collaborator Mel Pacifico. The collective brings together a rotating lineup of top-tier musicians, crafting a sound rooted in live instrumentation, groove-driven rhythms, and vivid storytelling.
Blending funk, R&B, Afrobeats, and hip-hop, the group’s music feels both globally resonant and distinctly their own—a fusion fully realized on their new 8-track album NO TRIBE NO I.
Sitting third on the album, the debut single “FIND ME” radiates a breezy, vacation-like energy from the very first note.
A playful, layered beat anchors the track as Fredy V’s smooth vocals draw you in, while Mel Pacifico’s effortless delivery of the main melody ties everything together. A bossa nova–inspired guitar riff by Frank O’Sullivan sets the tone, later deepened during a trip to Bahia, where Fredy V, his brother, and Pacifico connected with Aiace, adding an authentic warmth to the sound.
At its core, “FIND ME” captures a mood of longing and lightness, anchored by the refrain “saudade”—a Portuguese word describing a deep emotional state of nostalgia and yearning. It’s a word that fits perfectly with the song’s blend of warmth, rhythm, and wistful soul.
“MAKE IT RIGHT” is psychedelic, dreamy, and somehow sharply grounded—anchored by Mel Pacifico’s cutting vocals, which showcase both dynamic range and effortless control. Pacifico’s lines steer the ship, carrying the melody with precision and intent. Lyrically, the track centers on not wasting time—on finding the courage to make things right.
Fredy V’s rhythmic delivery offers the perfect counterbalance to Pacifico’s soaring performance, the two moving in a kind of sonic dance that clicks instantly.
“REACH FOR ME” finds Fredy V deep in his feels, exploring themes of self-discovery and healing. Lyrically, it suggests that moving slow isn’t laziness; it’s a form of self-protection. An undercurrent of calypso-inspired rhythm gives the track a playful backdrop that contrasts beautifully with Fredy’s soulful, introspective delivery.
Closing out the album, “PHO THE VIBE” brings a house-inflected energy that feels like pure celebration. With its buoyant chords and danceable pulse, it’s the kind of track that radiates joy and gratitude, a perfect closer that leaves you smiling. It’s easy to imagine it blasting through car speakers on the way to a night out; it’s pure feel-good energy from start to finish.
If NO TRIBE NO I is any indication, Fredy V & The Foundation are a group built for the stage. Their live instrumentation, tight vocal delivery, and undeniable funk energy would no doubt make for a standout performance. Because let’s be honest, funk just hits different live.
Overall, Fredy V brings the smooth, soulful energy that gives the album its pulse, while Pacifico’s commanding vocal range and effortless delivery ground it with precision and power. Together, they’re a force, equal parts flow and fire.
If you want to witness this flow and fire live, catch them at their album launch show on 13th November at Turbo Haus in Montreal.
Connect with Fredy V & The Foundation: Instagram | TikTok | YouTube | Facebook | Twitter
