:: Technikart – French Tour

Various Artists

In keeping with the recent fine form of the French, this selection of tracks that has been compiled by French magazine Technikart, showcases their taste for avant-garde panache. Apart from the beautiful packaging, which is a feature of European-made CDs, there is a great feel to the whole album. Some of the talented French music makers on show here are Mirwais, Ark, Rubin Steiner and Bleu Marine. They provide my highlights on the sixteen tracks. In taking these examples, Technikart grab some of the electro pop influences, techno and jazz rhythms that have been part and parcelled of French artistry. Tracks to note are “Naïve Song” by Mirwais. It is given a Rhthmes Digitales remix and appeals instantly with its whirling background sounds. Rubin Steiner’s “Lo-Fi Nu Jazz #6” is smooth, uplifting and inspiring. The eclectic rhythms of Bleu Marine’s “Brenda is Sonia’s Sister” is also interesting, while Modjo’s huge hit “Lady” receives the Choo-Choo’s Titanium dub treatment. The tracks are distinctly French, with the cool vocals overlaying the electronic sounds to great effect. This will put you in a positive frame of mind.