Noir Désir is a French rock band, currently on hiatus.
The band was founded in Bordeaux, in 1985 by singer Bertrand Cantat, drummer Denis Barthe, guitarist Serge Teyssot-Gay and bassist Frédéric Vidalenc (replaced in 1996 by Jean-Paul Roy). Over the years, they became famous in France, releasing albums every few years.
Noir Désir's second album, released in 1990, introduced punk rock elements to their sound. This continued with their next album, Tostaky, which contained the successful song of the same title.
Easily the most popular rock group in France, their success continued with the release of the dance-influenced 666.667 Club, and the remix album One Trip One Noise. Their last album, 2001's Des visages, des figures, was a slower, more ambitious affair. This album also contains a collaboration with a fellow francophone Manu Chao.
In 2003, Bertrand Cantat had a fight with his girlfriend Marie Trintignant. She lost consciousness and died few days later. Cantat was sentenced to 8 years in prison for manslaughter.
September 2005 brought two new releases of their work. The album, Noir Désir en public, contains highlights of their last tour. The DVD set, Noir Désir en images, contains various live performances footage and videos. Special permission was obtained for the imprisoned Cantat to participate in the development of those.
Noir Désir's members have not ruled out the possibility of re-forming once Cantat is released from jail.
