Zazie - Zen (1996)

The gentle French pop/rock of Zazie was hitting its stride on Zen, one of her best releases. From the moody, alternative rock splash of "Fou de Toi" to the funky synth pop of "Point C'Est Toi" to the low-key balladry of "La La La," this album is a solid mix of Cure-esque flourishes and European pop music. "Larsen" is a groovy mid-tempo pop song that brings to mind Sarah McLachlan, while the title track is a bouncing ballad with a solid hip-hop beat and a sensual performance from Zazie. This is a wonderful introduction to her brand of French pop, which has a European twist that keeps it from becoming too syrupy. The language barrier is not a big deal; it isn't always what she says but the way she says it. Adventurous pop fans should give this a listen -- it is a unique blend of alternative rock and French pop.