10 Tracks that will make you fall head over heels with Frenchcore
For all of those who stay up to date with Alive At Night, you’d know it’s no big secret that we’re all a bunch of Frenchcore fiends! Well, at least I (Cassi) am and I’m always itching to spread the word about this genre that I’ve formed a new-found appreciation for. Until this year I’d never taken the time to properly listen to Frenchcore, nor take it seriously, however after listening to a couple of tracks and honourably jumping on stage with Dr. Peacock at Defqon.1, it’s safe to say that this intense style of music has taken my soul hostage.
I’m admittedly still in the beloved ‘discovery’ stage of Frenchcore, making me no expert whatsoever, however I’m zealous to express my love for this genre by roping in some prospective listeners. I’ve comprised a list of ten Frenchcore tracks (and even a cheeky Hard Tek track) that have me absolutely hooked on the genre and eager to discover more!
– Le Bask – Asilyum
Released back in 2007, “Asilyum” is a kick-ass Frenchcore track with a minimalistic edge. Crafted by one of the genre’s original legends Le Bask, you know that this number is the real deal when it comes to pureness. This track is by no means ‘commercial,’ so if you’re eager to explore what the underground has to offer, then look no further than this pounding tune. Finally, for those who want to further explore Frenchcore’s roots, then you should definitely check out more of Le Bask’s music.
– Radium – Frenchcore Dream
Another long-standing pioneer in the Frenchcore sound is Radium, who’s been kicking since the 90’s! Hailing from France, this guy is a true legend and is responsible for immense growth of the genre around the globe. His track “Frenchcore Dream” is a catchy, energetic number that really had me hooked on the first listen, so for those who want an all-round view on Frenchcore, then look no further!
– Dr. Peacock & Mr. Ivex – Vive La Frenchcore (2016)
One of my most cherished memories from Defqon.1 was filming in the silent disco area on Friday and hearing this track blaring through the headphones. I was immediately hooked and just HAD to find out what it was! After doing a search on Peacock’s discography I came across his anthem for the “Vive la Frenchcore” concept alongside Mr. Ivex and from then on it was on repeat! Aside from pissing off my neighbours by blasting this during the early hours of the morning, this track has played a monumental part in my discovery journey.
– Death By Design & Brutal Jesters – Fearception
Another modern Frenchcore gem is “Fearception” by new kid on the block Death By Design in collaboration with fast-growing duo Brutal Jesters. Bringing those long craved ‘French’ spices to the Masters of Hardcore platform, this track contains so much energy and drive – it’s infectious! The next generation of Frenchcore producers are also kicking ass and that’s great to see!
– Brutal Jesters – Lost Under Surface
Another track by Brutal Jesters is “Lost Under Surface,” which is a whole lot harder than the above collaboration. The kicks are intense, refined as hell and the energy is also on a whole new level. If you want your Frenchcore a little more brutal, then it’s only logical to look no further, right?
– Dr. Peacock & Sefa – This Life Is Lost
Another one of my all-time favourites is “This Life Is Lost,” mainly because it was actually the first Frenchcore track that I properly listened to. Crafted by the legendary Dr. Peacock and newcomer Sefa, this track proves that there’s so much more to Frenchcore than fast tempos and bouncy kicks – colossal atmospheres and deeper story lines also exist! Not to mention, the melody in this one is epic and will make you re-think any negative statements you’ve made about Frenchcore.
– Zyklon – Messed Up
The first time I heard “Messed Up” by Zyklon, who is now known as Cyclon, I danced around my kitchen wildly until one of my housemates came home and asked what all the fuss was about. I showed her the track and of course it was too much for her to handle, however I could see her feet slightly grooving along with the penetrating kicks. This is a truly feel-good banger that will have you mesmerised, so for those who want something melodic and uplifting then look no further!
– Angerfist & Dr. Peacock – Caveman
When this was played during Angerfist’s closing set at Mysteryland the other weekend I absolutely LOST IT. Everybody around me was utterly confused as to why Frenchcore was being belted out of such a massive stage, but I did not give a fuck – I was in my element! I vividly recall going wild throughout the entire track and was wrapped up in such a state of euphoria, simply because I realised how well Frenchcore can be folded into a mainstream Hardcore set. Big ups to Angerfist for stretching his talents into new waters!
– Dr. Dre ft. Snoop Dogg (etc) – The Next Episode (Ketanoise Remix)
Every time I hear this remix it instantly puts a smile on my face and even makes me giggle, which is why we used it as our introduction track to our video concept ‘Into The Wild.’ With the signature “smoke weed everyday” vocals, this one needs no introduction, right? So if you’re looking for a commercial edge to your Frenchcore then you should definitely check this one out!
– Sefa – Roll The Drums
Young and talented, Peacock Records youngster Sefa is climbing the ladder and making his mark on the Frenchcore scene by developing a recognisable sound. The future is looking promising for this newcomer, who is expected to become a headliner of this sound in the coming years. His track “Roll The Drums” unveils a rather interesting edge to the genre, but don’t be fooled, once the drop arrives you’ll be throwing down the filthiest hakk. Not to mention, Sefa also added some cheeky kickrolls into the track.
Hard Tek wildcard – Fant4stik – Kr4ken
It wasn’t until I had the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Peacock that I discovered the genre Hard Tek. With Peacock preaching that this underground genre had so much potential, I decided to check it out and as I set out on a quest for discovery I looked no further than prominent four-some Fant4stik.
Expecting something tougher and more savage, I was surprised to hear that Hard Tek literally sounds like the offspring of UK Hardcore and Frenchcore, which just so happen to be two of my favourite genres. I know that it’s not your typical raw Hardstyle or Hardcore banger, but hey, this genre is seriously refreshing and is the exact innovation that Hardcore needs! I’ll save my Hard Tek preaches for a later article, but for now, you should all check out Fant4stik’s track “Kr4ken” – it’s HUGE!
Well guys, I hope you all learned something today about Frenchcore and have possibly opened your minds to some new discoveries. All I have left to say is, VIVE LA FRENCHCORE!
1 Comment
Here’s the track that got me into Frenchore. It’s absolutely fucking savage. Hoping to find some more hardcore events in London in the new year!
https://roundwavecrusher.bandcamp.com/track/mini-bassdrum-small