On the whole, French people are a lot cooler than the rest of us. It’s a pity, but it’s true. Their accents alone are pretty much impossible to beat, and the whole striped shirt scene is always pretty happening, and every stereotypical gaul you can imagine is wearing one of those. Probably with a beret too, depending on just how xenophobic you’re intending on being. Anyway, on top of all that, the French have also produced probably the most influential dance act of all time.
It must be difficult living the shadow of Daft Punk, but somebody has got to do it. Bonjour Afrique are two Parisians doing just that – and they’re doing it bloody well, actually. There’s a definite hint o the electro-house that the nation has become known for, but it’s mainly driven by a wonderful garage pop vibe. Built around crashing drums, frantic guitars and some beautiful and bizarre vocal work, it’s pretty awesome stuff. What’s most impressive is the variation that the band offer with each song – ‘Megalove’ probably the closest thing a Gallic Surfer rock song that we’re ever likely to hear, whereas other songs like ‘Heavy’ seem positively dance infused. It’s an inspired mix of influences, and, quite simply, it works.
Now, the band claim that their megalove EP is available to download from rapidshare, but when it unzips, it tells you that some errors have occured. It might just be this computer, so there’s a link anyway. But their myspace is probably the best way to go to enjoy some wonderful French garage rock.
Bonjour Afrique – (Myspace)
Bonjour Afrique – Megalove EP (rapidshare)
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