Zaz

 Tour Dates

Isabelle Geffroy is better known by her nickname, Zaz. Her self-titled debut album, released in France in May 2010, was a big hit for her, especially for her single “Je Veux” (I Want). Having just listened to the album, I can see why the French, Belgium, Switzerland, and Germany audiences all fell in love with her, her voice is not the typical sexy French candy-coated pop singers. It sounds classic, like French 1930s-era.

Her journey started when entered and won the 3rd annual Tremplin Génération France Bleu/Réservoir contest, which #1 recording French artist Raphaël wrote three songs for her. The three songs (“La Fée”, “Port Coton”, “Éblouie par la nuit”) all appeared on her debut album. While this is a boon to Zaz, and fans alike, but, personally, I found his style of writing to be too slow and sad for my taste. Maybe it’s because I don’t understand the language to really appreciate the Raphaël songs.

The songs I liked were “Ni Oui Ni Non” (Yes or No) for its shoutback chorus and “Prends Garde à Ta Langue” (Mind Your Tongue) for the upbeat swing-style music.

Well, the good news is that the US is finally getting her album, to be out exclusively at Barnes & Noble bookstores this July 5th, via SonyMusic Independent Network and Play On Records. This album is recommended if you like a bit of easy-going, scat-Jazz, and don’t mind hearing French. None of the songs are in English, which is fine, I rather not hear clumsy English translations, but it is a bit of a barrier for American audiences. If you’re still on the fence, head over to zazofficial.com and download “La Fée (unplugged)” for free.