Breaking beats: Paris, still shining
Last week, as the state of emergency in Paris came to a close, a new trend emerged on social media: #JeSuisEnTerrasse. The phrase translates to “I’m out on a terrace,” and is a rallying cry for the people of Paris to show they won’t give up their way of life despite the horrific attacks Nov. 13.
As Parisians reclaim bars and cafes, I’m offering some sweet Paris beats that are either in French or by French artists. In the last decade or so, we’ve seen an influx of amazing electronic and house music from France. This playlist highlights artists like Justice and Daft Punk but also acknowledges some of the quieter players you might not know.
Paradis — Garde le Pour Toi
Paradis’ music has a distinct texture: a mix of airy vocals intertwined with understated catchy beats. Group members Simon Mény and Pierre Rousseau came together with different musical backgrounds, but found they could merge their vibes to create something addictive! This is probably the best track Spotify’s “Discover” feature has ever given me.
Yelle — À Cause des Garçons
Remember Myspace? That’s how Yelle got famous. I was just a little 7th grader the first time I heard “Je Veux te Voir.” I later realized the vulgarity of the song, a diss track about some French rapper. I decided to put “À Cause des Garçons” on the list mainly because I like the beat and because the title is such a fun-sounding phrase!
Justice — D.A.N.C.E.
In another throwback to 2007, Justice is an example of great house music coming from France. Can the band please drop its third album soon?
M83 — Midnight City
Lead man Anthony Gonzalez is a French dude that’s kind of obsessed with themes of the “American Dream,” and you can hear it in his music. Regardless, M83 makes some great indie dance tracks, and “Midnight City” might be their best so far. I threw an older favorite, “Kim and Jessie,” to the end of the playlist in case you want more. ;)
Daft Punk — Doin’ it Right ft. Panda Bear
What’s more French than Daft Punk?
Phoenix — 1901
Another French group that has really made a name for themselves in the American indie scene is Phoenix. I put 1901 on the playlist because I love the way the song builds up — that keyboard is electrifying.
Stromae — Tous les Mêmes
Over the last couple of years Stromae blew up in Europe and made a splash in the U.S., playing major gigs like SXSW and Coachella in 2015. “Tous les Mêmes” is a fun track that shows guys and girls are a lot more alike than you may think.
Kavinsky — Nightcall ft. Lovefoxxx
Anyone who’s seen the movie Drive might remember this song in the opening credits. The song emits coolness, the synth has a mischievous vibe that creeps up to the sexiness of Lovefoxxx’s ever-so-unique vocal in the chorus. “There’s something inside you,” she laments. “It’s hard to explain.” I feel her — it’s hard to explain why I like this song so much!
Serge Gainsbourg & Brigitte Bardot — Bonnie and Clyde
Hipsters go crazy for Serge Gainsbourg. I can’t hate too hard though; “Bonnie and Clyde” is a total French classic and a great way to end this playlist.
