Cassius Vinyl Records & Discography

Who is Cassius? A Brief Career Overview

Cassius, the dynamic duo hailing from France, captured the hearts of electronic music lovers everywhere! Comprised of the innovative producers Philippe Zdar and Hubert Blanc-Francart (better known as Boombass), Cassius burst onto the scene in 1996 with a signature sound that effortlessly blends the energetic vibes of alternative dance, electronica, and filter house. Their groundbreaking track "Cassius 1999" catapulted them to fame in the late '90s, placing them at the forefront of the French touch movement--a genre characterized by its smooth grooves and funky undertones.

Over the years, Cassius has left an indelible mark on the music industry, known for their exciting collaborations with other music legends. Their passion for vinyl culture is manifested in their impressive discography, with several memorable albums featuring stunning vinyl releases that delight collectors to this day. As we explore the fascinating journey of Cassius, get ready to dive into a world of vibrant sounds and impressive milestones!

Cassius's Early Life and Background

Cassius's story begins in the vibrant soundscape of France in the late 1980s. Philippe Zdar was born on January 28, 1967, and Hubert "Boombass" Blanc-Francart followed shortly after on March 31, 1967. Both artists showcased a profound love for music early on, influenced by their family backgrounds--Zdar, an Italian descendant, immersed himself in the world of sound engineering, while Boombass's family was steeped in musical traditions. Growing up during a time when electronic music was beginning to blossom, the duo found solace in the emerging genres, and this connection would shape their creative pursuits.

Throughout their adolescence, the sounds of the late 80s and early 90s, from funk to hip-hop, resonated with Zdar and Boombass, drawing them closer to their future endeavors as producers. It was during these formative years they found themselves experimenting with various instruments, leading them to discover an unquenchable thirst for vinyl records--a passion that would accompany their illustrious career.

The Musical Influences That Shaped Cassius's Sound

Cassius's distinctive sound is deeply rooted in a palette of musical influences that span genres and decades. Drawing inspiration from hip-hop legends like MC Solaar, with whom they first collaborated, as well as the innovative sound of Daft Punk and iconic disco elements from the likes of Chic, Cassius crafted a unique fusion that retains a feel-good essence. Experiments with jazz and funk also permeated their creations, rooted in Boombass's artistic ethos.

Legend has it that during their formative years, the duo collected influential vinyl records that served as key motivation for their sound. Albums by artists such as The Blackbyrds and Earth, Wind & Fire were among their favorites, reflecting their desire to capture that magic in their own music. It's through this deep connection to the records they adored that Cassius has continued to evolve, creating vibrant tracks that resonate with fans and collectors alike.

How Cassius Entered the Music Industry

The road to success for Cassius began with humble intentions. After meeting in a sound studio in the late '80s, the pair started performing locally, honing their craft and developing their unique sound. Their initial foray into the music scene came through producing tracks for the French rap phenomenon, MC Solaar, which provided them with invaluable exposure and experience.

In 1999, everything changed with the release of their breakthrough single "Cassius 1999". Its infectious beat and catchy lyrics made it a club anthem, climbing the UK Singles Chart and putting Cassius firmly on the map. The full-length debut album, also titled 1999, solidified their reputation as leading figures in the French touch movement, featuring notable vinyl releases that would become must-haves for collectors.

Cassius's Breakthrough and Rise to Fame

The duo's meteoric rise came with the release of their hit album 1999 and the subsequent singles, "Feeling For You" and "La Mouche." This album not only established Cassius as one of France's leading electronic acts but also became a key addition to any vinyl collector's library. Critics praised its cohesive sound, leading to international acclaim.

Their sophomore album, Au Rêve, solidified their status in the industry, with the iconic single "Sound of Violence" receiving heavy airplay and earning them award nominations. Cassius became a household name, performing at renowned festivals and making appearances on various media platforms, further elevating their profile. The innovative mixing of their tracks was particularly well-received on vinyl, enchanting both new listeners and longtime fans.

How Personal Life Shaped Cassius's Music

Cassius's music is deeply intertwined with their personal experiences. The dynamic between Zdar and Boombass created a unique synergy; their shared successes and challenges fostered a creative environment that resulted in some of the most memorable tracks of their careers. Tragically, the passing of Philippe Zdar in June 2019 profoundly impacted both their music and the electronic community, leading to poignant tributes and re-evaluations of their contributions to music.

Throughout their careers, themes of love, empowerment, and social issues found their way into their tracks, reflecting both personal struggles and broader societal messages. Their involvement in philanthropy and cultural activism underscores their commitment to using music as a platform for change, making their legacy even more resonant. Notably, their reflections on personal experiences and the world around us are beautifully presented in their special vinyl releases, captivating fans on both a sonic and emotional level.