L'International

It’s been a long wait for a venue dedicated to new acts in Paris, but now l’International has filled the void. There are two or three sets an evening, mostly rock, pop, folk, French singers, hip-hop and electro, all playing to an enthusiastic crowd – and it’s all for free. Not far from the lively Rue Oberkampf, l’International is distinguished by its friendly aura, a sort of best mates’ hangout that also doubles as a gig venue. Relaxed punters gather for well-priced drinks in the bar, a huge open space furnished with second hand furniture that gets very animated after cocktail hour. Once the gigs start, everyone crams into the downstairs event space that, much like a garage converted into a private club, is all pillars and walls in reinforced concrete.