The best bands in France right now...
Anteenagers M.C.
Frustration
Crash Normal
Cheveu
Volt (and Lili Z. solo stuff)
All these bands have American releases out on either of these labels...
S-S Records
Plastic Idol
Then there's The Normals, the Cheeraks, tons more. A full LP comp's worth called "Tete a Bebe" is coming on S-S with only French artpunk and garage bands. Might be the year's best compilation.
These all come recommended for fans of stuff like The Fall, Wire, Rema Rema, Tubeway Army, Coachwhips, etc. I have no vested interest in those labels. I just like the music and want anyone interested to know about it.