They were never as trendy as the Strokes or the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, but nonetheless, New York City's French Kicks were a mainstay of the early 2000s Big Apple rock renaissance. Originally known for being the band with a singi... more »ng drummer, the French Kicks underwent several line-up changes that led to drummer Nick Stumpf taking over traditional frontman duties.One listen to their sharp, hip mod-pop is proof that the boys did just fine for themselves.« less
They were never as trendy as the Strokes or the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, but nonetheless, New York City's French Kicks were a mainstay of the early 2000s Big Apple rock renaissance. Originally known for being the band with a singing drummer, the French Kicks underwent several line-up changes that led to drummer Nick Stumpf taking over traditional frontman duties.One listen to their sharp, hip mod-pop is proof that the boys did just fine for themselves.
"This is quite an amazing album. French Kicks is kickin' all the other CDs which are not titled Swimming out of my player right now. This album is addictive, and is a quintessential release to own, and cherish, and spread the word around."
Best of 2008: Even better than "Two Thousand"
Manny Hernandez | Bay Area, CA | 05/23/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I had the chance of seeing French Kicks live a couple of years ago. I thought their album Two Thousand released in 2006 was hard to beat. Yet I have been pleased to find that "Swimming" does just that. Their sound is more solid and there are tracks from end to end (with "New Man" being my favorite, hands down) that confirm this New York-based post-punk inspired act as one of the great bands around these days."
Are you kidding me?
Matty W. | Bay Area CA | 07/17/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I often do not leave record reviews because I tend to not take so much shock and awe from music these days...But! This album is subtle genius..it's rather a simple arrangement, but yet with a layered haze of emotion and hypnosis groove. I haven't ever listened to their 2006 record, but Trial of the Century was also chill...Swimming reaches much further though. It's like pure euphoria and coolness all rolled up into one. Get it!"
Their best yet
drew | USA | 12/14/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"These guys don't get enough credit. After an admittedly derivitive debut, French Kicks changed course dramatically, and have since been crafting some of the most elegant, heartfelt music I know, and this, in my opinion, is their best album. Listening to them is like tonic for me. I absolutely love this album. They can't make another one soon enough."