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In the press |
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All Music Guide
The Calamities 
One of the very few French rock groups to convincingly emulate Anglo-pop styles, The Calamities came off something like a French Bangles on this mini-album of nine songs. Consisting of three guitar-toting Frenchwomen, who all share vocals, and an Anglo drummer, the record is divided into competent covers (sung in heavily accented English) and fairly strong original material (usually sung in French). Catchy, guitar-and-harmony-oriented power pop that owes much of its charm to the novelty of French accents earnestly coming to grips with girl group and British Invasion traditions.
Richie Unterberger
Amazon.com customer reviews - February 26, 2002
Wonderful 60's Norman-Pop Gems from 1980's France (C'est complet, Last Call Records)
I first encountered Les Calamites in Paris in 1984 in a record shop on the left bank, I bought the album on the spot. I have long considered their first(and only)album to be one of the undiscovered gems of the 80's. The tunes and feel were pure 60's Brit pop, the attack was "pleine de punk" and the harmonies were exquisite. Every track was stunning and joyous, original compositions in French (Tous les Nuits, Nicholas, Le Supermarche)were joyous pop perfection and covers of songs like "The Kids are Alright" were sung with a disarming French accent (Za Keeds are Alright!) it was impossible not to love. The album was pure bliss. This album went missing years ago, I was unable to replace it on three trips to Paris. Last year on a trip to France, I came across "C'est Complet" and I bought it on the spot. This cd contains their complete catalog (hence the title) including their one full length album and their one quasi-hit "Velomoteur", which is another ripping good track. The cd also includes a much welcome brief history of the band. The only weak track is an ill-advised cover of "Boy from New York City", it doesn't have the power and abandon found on all the other tracks. The cd is a wonderful testament to this wonderfully melodic and fun band. A true treasure.
Matthew Cletus