TROY GREGORY & THE STEPSISTERS

TROY GREGORY & THE STEPSISTERS, BISOU BISOU
CLUB BART, FERNDALE
FEBRUARY 24, 2004
photo: christopher chouinard

Any Having recently yucked it up on a Wednesday (see ROMANTICS review), I saw no reason to
whoop it up on a Tuesday. With faithful Michelle, my chauffeur for the night, I headed off to meet up with fellow MCR Jacquie to catch Bisou Bisou. I've had several run ins with this French

pop posse so far, each time I ended up missing their set. I came so close to seeing them on Valentines Day though...so imagine my surprise when they were still setting up when I got there! Having never been to Club Bartin Ferndale, I was pleasantly surprised. Its lounge style decor was well suited for tonight's line up. But I have to admit, a stage behind the bar - literally...may have to re-think that one. Still, both bands gave it a hella try. Bisou Bisou kicked off with their trademark French lyrics front and center. You gotta give it to them - it's damn original. While my ears fought to get a

grasp on the lyrics, my feet started tapping. Yes, with this trio led by George Papanikos and Jackie O, you definitely get caught up in the shoe gazing right away if you let yourself. It really was fun and I enjoyed every bit, ESPECIALLY the instrumental riffing. I think this is the most untapped market, and perhaps Bisou could spearhead a movement - as several bands of note have ridden the groove-alternative wave to a full-on crest. With new drummer ALVA EDISON on hand to keep perfect time, without overwhelming the two guitars - it made for one downright enjoyable set. Alva is an accomplished musician (he first caught my ear on the superb SOLEDAD BROTHERS live at the GOLD DOLLAR cd - where he played sax), and it's cool to see him comfortable in that skin. -Christopher Chouinard