World Musette

Best known as cartoonist Robert Crumb's other gig, Les Primitifs du Futur do their schtick perfectly, re-creating the French musette sound of the 1930s. Full credit goes to founder, guitarist, and singer Dominique Cravic, whose compositions are perfect in both note and mood, whether on the opening "Fox Musette" or "Le Blues de Dix-Neuf Heures Trente." The core of the band is filled out by a large number of guests who are brilliantly utilized. Even the theremin doesn't sound out of place; used sparingly, it is a modern touch that simply adds to the atmosphere. The notion here is to add world music elements to the basic idea, as a reminder that France was a multicultural society before the term even existed. So you have musette with blues, musette with Cuban music, and even a hint of Asian influences. It all works seamlessly, played with fabulous dexterity and assurance, and more than a touch of glee.