Return to the River: Flore Benguigui Embraces Jazz Freedom with The Sensible Notes

On October 17th, a new chapter in French music history began as singer-songwriter Flore Benguigui and her collective, The Sensible Notes, launched their debut single, “More Understanding Than a Man,” on Decca Records France. Known globally as the captivating voice of the pop-disco group L’Impératrice, Flore is now making a profound return to the genre that first shaped her: jazz. This launch isn’t just a pivot; it’s a “declaration of artistic freedom,” taking Flore “al río” (to the river)—a place of safety and authentic expression she had longed for.

Bridging Eras: A Tribute to a Cult Classic

The chosen debut track is a long-lost gem by cult composer Margo Guryan. Guryan, whose compositions are known for their sharp lyrical wit and distinct vocal tone, is a major inspiration for Flore. As Flore explains, she admires Guryan’s “jazz training before pop, her way of composing with pop harmonic codes often adding sharp lyrics and that disarmingly simple vocal tone.” The song itself, “More Understanding Than a Man,” is highlighted as a feminist and astute piece, whose original composer worked in the DIY style after being traumatized by touring. Flore and her band—featuring Pierre-François Maurin on double bass, Charles Tois on piano and synthesizers, and Maxime Mary on drums—honor this legacy while infusing it with modern flair.

The Sound of Freedom: Vintage Meets Analog

This project is defined by its dedication to bridging the past and the present. Having honed her craft for over a decade in the Parisian jazz scene, notably at the legendary club Baiser Salé, Flore brings a deep love for forgotten standards, from Nat King Cole to Barbara. The Sensible Notes collective combines this historical appreciation with contemporary exploration. Their sound mixes acoustic instruments, recorded live in the same room, with the warm bursts of analog synthesizers like the Prophet 6. This unique fusion creates a sonic tunnel between the sixties and today. Adding a layer of cheeky irony, Flore notes they “even take the irony further by having the musicians, the drummer and the pianist, sing the rather misogynistic lyrics of the song!”

The release of “More Understanding Than a Man” is more than a single; it’s the start of an adventure driven by a talented and diverse collective. With contributions from producer Nicky Green and a host of trusted musicians including trumpeter Julie Varlet and saxophonist Jeanne Michard, the project affirms Flore’s commitment to energy and freedom over “obsolete norms.” For fans of L’Impératrice and jazz lovers alike, Flore Benguigui & The Sensible Notes offer a sophisticated, witty, and deeply personal new sound that is definitely worth diving into.