ZAZ.

Zaz sings with a voice allowed to retain its rough edges; it is precisely because of this that her melodies feel intimate.

Zaz allows her voice to carry a great deal of rhythmic and melodic movement. A phrase can start lightly and subsequently gain more emphasis or color. The accompaniment leaves room for short responses and a clear song sensibility. French lyrics, a recognizable delivery, and various instrumental accents combine to create an environment in which exuberance and a personal narrative constantly complement each other.

Discovering Zaz on vinyl pays attention to the different moods within a complete album. A LP places quieter songs alongside rhythmic passages. Also listen to the instruments between the vocal phrases: a guitar line, bass movement, or other melodic accent determines how the voice re-enters and how a familiar song form takes on a different emotional charge.

A vinyl album gives the music a fixed order and a tangible place in your collection. Give the lesser-known pieces time as well, and follow the transitions within a side of the record.

Recto Verso reveals the agility, while Isa takes a calmer look at the same temperament. Start with Recto Verso.

The story of the music of the fifties opens an older route to the French chanson. Jazz and French chanson provide two good entry points to her records. Explore THE FIFTIES, jazz and FRENCH CHANSON.

Those wishing to explore that atmosphere further can go from Zaz to Françoise Hardy and France Gall, or seek out a completely different French encounter with jazz via St Germain.