Dropping just three EPs between 1982 and 1987, Takenoko were a true enigma in the heady rush of French new wave. This group from Bordeaux hit all the right notes, fusing choppy indie instrumentation with punchy synth lines and angular vocals - in a parallel universe they could have been huge. Emotional Rescue have done the right thing in bringing together their three EPs for this definitive introduction to a rare and righteous slice of underground arcana. Whether it s the breezy pop stylings of -Elle A Tokyo- or the slow, stomping funk of -Trans Amor Express,- Takenoko are a joy to listen to for any new wave devote