Sweet swinging 60s here we come! Ace has put together this infectious compilation of French chanteuses that all but epitomizes the epicenter of the 1960s yé-yé phenomenon. Many of the foremost female vocalists to emerge from France during the 60s are featured, including ultra-chic cover girl France Gall, cult favorite Jacqueline Taïeb, top Gallic girl group Les Gam's and iconic singer-songwriter Françoise Hardy. There's classic French fatalism on display, as well as the opulence of 60s pop production. Lush strings, funky drums and big bands abound. The singers themselves more than live up to their reputations. You can hear their beauty floating from the grooves of the record. And, of course, this being 60s France we get a little songwriting from Serge Gainsbourg as well. This fabulous compilation is pressed on 180 gram blonde vinyl (how fitting, right?) and housed in a gatefold sleeve with full liner notes.

• music label: Ace 2013

reviewed by Le Haim 06/2014