Classics from the alternate universe of French pop
09/21/1999
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Pop music from France has a terrible reputation. But if you've actually listened to any of the good stuff, you know that it's largely undeserved. Serge Gainsbourg and Francoise Hardy are finally getting the recognition they deserve in the English-speaking world--now it's time for France Gall, Nino Ferrer and the supercool Jacques Dutronc. This collection is terrific! The sound is sort of comparable to '65-ish Brit pop and American garage and folk rock. Dutronc's lyrics are scathing and witty--unfortunately you have to understand some French to enjoy them, and this somewhat cheaply-packaged collection doesn't even include them in the original language. But! for 36 tracks you can't beat this price."