French — All Formats  

Two early gems from this fab French singer! First up is the self-titled Francoise Hardy album from 1962 – a seminal debut from the young Hardy, and a record that set the tone for a whole generation of French music to come! The album's a remarkable achievement – especially considering that Francoise was 18 at the time – filled with original tunes that have a really fresh presentation – not just in the lyrics, but in the overall presentation – which was a huge change from the overly emotive modes of the generation before. Hardy plays a fair bit of acoustic guitar along with her vocals – furthering the groovy feel of the set – and backings are by the orchestra of Roger Samyn, who adds in some slight rockish touches. Titles include "On Se Plait", "Oh Oh Cheri", "Ca A Rate", "Tous Les Garcons Et Les Filles", "La Fille Avec Toi", and "J'Suis D'Accord". Canta Per Voi In Italiano has Hardy changing up her lyrics entirely – using Italian instead of French, in a way that was not uncommon for other European singers of her time! The vibe is similar to her French work of the time – a beautiful blend of dreamy female vocals and some slight rockish touches – the latter of which are always underplayed, so as to keep the youthful quality of Hardy in the lead. Titles include "Ci Sto", "Per Tanto Tempo", "Io Vorrei", "E Alla'Amore Che Penso", and "L'Eta Dell'Amore".

Great French grooves from the 60s – a host of female-led rockers, most of which have a harder edge than you might expect! The mode here is similar to Paris pop that you might know from the "yeh yeh" generation, but the sound's a bit grittier too – proof that the garage reference in the title is well-placed, especially on the more guitar-heavy numbers! If you dig the sounds of France Gall or Francoise Hardy, you'll find plenty to love here – a treasure trove of rare tracks that includes "Le Restaurant Chinois" by Janny L, "Au Temps Des Princes Charmants" by Marjorie Noel, "Le Boa" by Clothilde, "Ma Moto" by Kathy, "Oh Dis Moi" by Les Princesses, "Un Petit Rien" by Tonia, "Une Question Qui Se Pose" by Evy, and "Mais Qui Que Quoi Donc Ou" by Les Cheries.