So Frenchy, So Chic

Editorial

No one expected much from the So Frenchy, So Chic CD series when it was launched a few years back. That all changed when Triple J picked up one of the tracks, Ta Douleur, and added it to high rotation. Its popularity not only saw the singer, Camille, touring Australia, it made the compilation one of the break-out hits of 2006. Three years on and the latest So Frenchy, So Chic has arrived. Billed as The unofficial soundtrack To the Alliance Francaise French Film Festival, the new compilation features the usual mix of French chartreuses singers, spread over two discs. Two of those same singers are out here in Australia for a supporting tour - Melanie Pain and Moriarty.

Melaine Pain is best known as the lead vocalist for Nouvelle Vague. Alongside the rest of the band she's played festivals throughout the world, combining covers of 1980's punk classics with a smokey, bossa nova backing. In more recent years she's branched out on her own, releasing a solo album and collaborating with other musicians. Meanwhile, Moriarty combine American folk and European cabaret to create their own distinct sound. They're certainly popular in France, where the album Gee Whiz But This is a Lonesome Town has gone gold. Put these two together and you've got yourself a very French, very chic night of entertainment.
Mikolai, September 2009