Quartier Libre

Reviewed: "L'Espoir Fait Vivre" CD

Like a French version of Rancid, Quartier Libre tear through 11 pop induced hardcore punk anthems with an honesty and determination often lacking in similar bands.

I'll be honest, I have no idea what the hell they're singing about half the time (besides for the odd bit of English thrown in, such as "Do the Ska!"), but it all sounds angry, political, urgent and important.

Musically, its very traditional UK Subs style punk, with a bit of ska-ness thrown in for good measure. Think short songs with good choruses and plenty of sing along 'oi' bits and you should get the idea..

Standout tracks include "Rude Boys in Town", which harks back to the glory days of the Ruts, and "Rock'N'Roll Attitude", because, well, it has a rock n roll attitude to it.

Overall, a very good old fashioned punk rock album, and the best thing I've heard from France in a long long time!

Reviewed by SD