By: Jared Gudnason

French Police are American. The deadhead-ed woman in front of me was clearly unsober. While I was snapping a photo of their very last song, she seemed more interested in how many times her hair could get as close to my face as possible.

The band has been active since January 2019, when their first self-titled record was released. It’s highly refreshing to see younger generations bring bygone influences into their songwriting efforts. French Police are a darkwave group, taking guidance from 1980s classic bands like Tears for Fears, The Cure, Joy Division and Echo & the Bunnymen. Newer influences can also be pulled from the likes of New York’s legendary Interpol, as well as a personal favorite, Ceremony. A crowd of a bit over 200 people showed up to support them.

Our venue itself has a massive garage door separating the venue side from the bar and restaurant, and unless over 400 people purchase admission, typically it remains shut. Evidently the case this Friday night. While the genre name may sound depressive, it was quite a calm, dance-y, and relaxing show. A trio with keyboards, electric and bass guitars, and vocals performed upwards of 15 songs. With at least 60 songs in their respective catalogue, the synthesizer-filled, blue-lit show ensured everyone seemed in a happy respite from the year 2025.

They rolled through Saint Paul after releasing a new single, “LIBRA,” on Aug. 27. While misadvertised as happening in Minneapolis on a Spotify (boo) video graphic, I’m glad people showed up to the right venue this side of town.

Relax to some darkwave. It’s good for you!