Popular French bands. Recommended groups.

Occult MedicineYyrkoon

Yyrkoon – Occult Medicine

Illdisposed, a band that shocked the French death metal scene.

Formed in 1995, they’re known for a distinctive sound that incorporates elements of melodic death metal and thrash metal.

The band name is said to come from a character in Michael Moorcock’s fantasy works.

Their 2004 album Occult Medicine is highly regarded as their signature release.

Recorded at a studio in Denmark and featuring the drummer from Soilwork, the album brought together an all-star production team.

It’s characterized by weighty yet melodic guitar solos and a wildly versatile drum performance.

You can also enjoy a horror movie–like atmosphere.

It’s recommended even for newcomers to death metal, so be sure to check it out.

Salut à toiBérurier Noir

Salut à toi

Bérurier Noir is a punk rock band from Paris.

Formed in 1983, they had a major impact on the French punk scene.

Their music is characterized by a distinctive sound featuring a drum machine and socially critical lyrics.

They disbanded in 1989, but reunited in 2003 and gained a new generation of fans.

They strongly espouse anti-racist and anarchist ideas and are known for giving voice to the youth.

Their song “La jeunesse emmerde le Front National” is a signature track beloved by many listeners.

It’s recommended not only for fans of punk rock but also for those interested in socially conscious music.

Dis-MoiBB BRUNES

BB BRUNES – Dis-Moi [Clip Officiel]

BB Brunes is a band from Paris, France, formed in 2006.

While the members’ good looks draw plenty of attention, their songs—combining a slightly youthful-sounding vocal with catchy, upbeat rhythms—are excellent as well, so I recommend enjoying them along with the music videos.

BruxellesLes Négresses Vertes

Boulevard des Airs – Bruxelles (Clip officiel)

Boulevard des Airs is a band formed in 2004.

Their distinctly European sound is very stylish, and their languid vocals are wonderfully sultry, making for songs that are very pleasant to listen to.

While most of their tracks are in French, they sometimes sing in Spanish as well, reflecting their European flair.

AbscissionDeathspell Omega

Deathspell Omega – Abscission (high quality)

Among the countless subgenres of metal, one of the most underground and extreme forms is black metal.

Some of you may have learned about the genre through subcultural channels, such as the film Lords of Chaos, which centers on members of the Norwegian black metal band Mayhem.

The band featured in this article, Deathspell Omega, is a French black metal act with a cult following.

While their sound follows the primitive black metal tradition—frigid guitar riffs driven by blast beats and tremolo picking, and malevolent vocals—each release has earned acclaim in the underground for its unsettling atmosphere, religious solemnity, and striking aesthetic refinement as a work of art.

They’ve even garnered high praise among Japanese enthusiasts, with domestic editions of their albums being released here.

Beyond the religious elements, their worldview suggests an influence from existentialism, and their refusal to perform live adds to their mystique.

Their music is not universally accessible, and even metal fans may find it challenging; still, for those intrigued by avant-garde metal such as black metal, start with their 2004 masterpiece, the third album Si Monumentum Requires, Circumspice, and take your first step into this side of the world.

LambadaKaoma

Kaoma – Lambada (Official Video) 1989 HD

Kaoma is a multinational band formed in France.

This song is an extremely famous track that almost everyone has probably heard at least once.

Although Kaoma went on hiatus for a time, they resumed their activities in 2006.

It’s a great song with a wistful melody and a tasteful, mature vibe.

Sous le Soleil de BodegaBoulevard des airs

Les Négresses Vertes – Sous le Soleil de Bodega (Clip Officiel)

Les Négresses Vertes were a French band active from 1987 to 2001, known for songs that prominently feature distinctly European instruments.

Their music videos also showcase many very dapper men, so I’d recommend this stylish French band to anyone who’s grown tired of today’s mainstream sounds.