Vintage France

Though echoing the past, Vintage France proves how alive and hip classic French chanson remains. Several generations of musicians continue to find inspiration in songs that were first popularized in the early to mid-1900s. On Vintage France, sultry songstresses such as the iconic Juliette Gréco and Madeleine Peyroux join newcomers Francesca Blanchard and Dutch jazz harmonica whiz Martijn Luttmer. This harmonious collection has deep roots. From the outdoor guingette dances where the waltzing musette instrumentals of early French popular music began, to the cabarets where Edith Piaf, Maurice Chevalier and other legends entertained a country struggling with the recovery from World War II. Over the last 100 years, the French chanson tradition has undergone a process of evolution, yet retained an inimitable charm. The musicians featured on this collection have kept the tradition of rich harmonization and rhythmic nuance alive. This open-minded evolution is captured on the interpretations of classic songs on Vintage France. Fans of Piaf and Gainsbourg, or new listeners looking for an introduction to France's classic gems, will find exactly what they are looking for on Vintage France.