Ma valise

A touching posthumous project honours the life and art of Fayo—Mario A. LeBlanc (1977–2024)—a longtime Mont-Carmel, PEI resident and beloved Acadian poet and singer-songwriter. In October, his family released a posthumous EP titled Ma valise (My Suitcase) on all digital platforms.

The first single on the EP, “Ma valise,” expresses nostalgia for travel and features the poetry of Mario “Fayo” LeBlanc, whom his fans have nicknamed “the poet of everyday life.” At the October EP launch, a music video directed by Francine Hébert accompanied the track, and a tributre website was unveiled. The website and archival collection celebrate Fayo’s creative journey and contributions to Acadian culture.

In September 2024, Fayo passed away after a short illness. In 2025, spearheaded by his family, a group of collaborators and friends came together—honouring his wishes—to complete and release the posthumous EP. The songs on Ma valise are original compositions written by LeBlanc and co-produced and arranged by Pastelle LeBlanc and Pascal Miousse.

Alongside Mario A. LeBlanc (guitar, vocals), the album features Donny Chapman (drums), Nick Gauthier (guitar), Rémi Arsenault (bass), Pastelle LeBlanc (keyboards, vocals), Pascal Miousse (electric and acoustic guitars), and Emmanuelle LeBlanc (vocals). The album cover, designed by Pat Brunet, features a childhood photo of the LeBlanc family.

Acadian folk-rock singer Fayo LeBlanc lived in southeastern NB and PEI. He had a career in music from the late 1990s until 2024. Known for the poetry of his lyrics and the sincerity of his voice, he expressed himself naturally—in French, Chiac, and Acadian.