Phoque OFF was born out of the crying need for the emerging and alternative Quebec and Franco-Canadian music scene to be heard by broadcasters. While opportunities existed for the big guns, there were few for those just starting out in their careers, or those pursuing different musical styles.

 

And so, in February 2015, Yanick Capuano and Patrick Labbé, armed with audacity, creativity (and ultra-determination) put together the first evening branded Le Phoque OFF. Caravane, Sandveiss, and Les Marinellis took to the Pantoum's stage while a pole danced in the middle of the venue. From there, Le Phoque OFF went from strength to strength, even showcasing a hundred artists to industry pros and the public in its sixth edition, which also won the 'Festival of the Year' award at GAMIQ 2020. During this period, the festival welcomed artists such as Jérôme 50, Hubert Lenoir, and Ariane Roy.

 

2021 marks a turning point as the seventh edition is forced to be held entirely online. Determined to deliver on their mission at all costs, the Phoque OFF team of space cowboys set about creating platforms and tools for presenting the programming in virtual worlds, and even set a date with participants in the metaverse for 2022.

Le Phoque OFF and Le Phoque OFF PRO are initiatives by Centrale Alternative.