Popular French bands. Recommended groups.

L’Araignee-MalAtoll

Atoll ► L’Araignee-Mal [HQ Audio] 1975

Many rock bands from non-English-speaking countries have a distinctive sound unique to their homeland, and the same holds true in progressive rock.

Iconic, idiosyncratic groups like Magma and Gong are well known, and Atoll—formed in 1972—was likewise a pioneering presence during the formative years of French rock.

The band’s members are highly skilled players; their music features meticulously crafted ensembles that evoke the stylistic elegance of the British band Yes, along with a symphonic brand of prog infused with elements of jazz and fusion.

With their multifaceted personality, they enjoy strong popularity among prog fans here in Japan as well.

If you’re interested in them, a great place to start is their superb second album, L’Araignée-Mal, released in 1975.

It encompasses refined symphonic beauty, technically adept jazz-rock, theatrical and avant-garde developments, and even weighty, King Crimson–like sonorities.

Des Torrents De CoupsCeleste

CELESTE – Des Torrents De Coups (OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO)

In France’s underground scene, there are many bands that produce inventive metal and heavy rock sounds, and the deeper you dig, the more fascinating acts you’ll discover.

In this piece, we introduce Celeste, a band from Lyon, France, who have a devoted following in Japan as well—having even toured here in 2019.

Their musical style, often described as “dark hardcore,” uniquely interprets elements of black metal, sludge, and post-hardcore.

True to the name, their thunderous sound, both dark and aggressive, delivers an intensely powerful listening experience that shakes the listener to the core.

Formed in 2005, they released their debut album Nihiliste(s) in 2008 and have consistently put out new work, steadily building their career.

In 2021, they signed with Nuclear Blast, the prestigious Germany-based metal label, and in January 2022 released their latest album to date, Assassine(s).

While the overwhelming heaviness and intricate band interplay remain intact, it’s their most melody-forward work yet—a masterpiece that captures the growth of a band that never stops moving forward.

It might be a good idea to start with Assassine(s) and then dive into their earlier releases!

Greyhound RacingConcrete Knives

Concrete Knives – Greyhound Racing (Official Video)

Concrete Knives are a five-piece band based in Caen, in France’s Normandy region.

Formed in the 2000s, they’ve developed a distinctive sound that fuses edgy art rock with pop hooks and rich dance melodies.

They debuted in 2012 with the album “Be Your Own King,” followed by their second album “Our Hearts” in 2018.

Influenced by a range of artists including TV on the Radio and Talking Heads, their sound spans genres from pop/rock to indie electronic.

The band never forgets to show appreciation to their fans and has persevered steadily with their music.

Highly recommended for anyone seeking fresh, exciting sounds.

Black Sun RisingDESTINITY

DESTINITY – Black Sun Rising – official video clip

Destinity is a band formed in France that operates within the heavier subgenres of metal, such as black metal and thrash metal.

Not only are the shouted vocals incredibly cool, but the melodic elements are also highly recommended—making this a must-listen band for metal fans.

CsillagoDragibus

Dragibus – Csillago

Drajibus is a two-person unit band consisting of vocals and drums, formed in 1995.

Their music makes extensive use of charming instruments like toy pianos, giving it a very stylish feel, and the cute, addictive vocals evoke the vibe of kawaii artists such as Kyary Pamyu Pamyu.

AmenoERA

ERA : Ameno 2010 – Remix (Official Music Video)

ERA is a band formed around Eric Lévi, a guitarist from a heavy metal band.

Their fresh, captivating music blends electronic sounds with operatic vocals from as many as 60 singers, creating a beautiful and striking effect.

Morning in JapanFakear

Fakear – Morning In Japan

This is an electro track that exudes an exotic atmosphere.

Its dark, poetic sound is truly fantastical, with floating tones anchored by soft beats.

Deep and feminine, this track gently sets your body in motion before you know it.