La Caution

La Caution formed in 1998 with Hi-Tekk and Nikkfurie, two MCs from Saint-Denis. Their early work like 'Première consultation' in 2001 established them as part of that era's French hip-hop scene, though they never quite fit the mainstream mold. They kept putting out records through the 2000s, including 'Peur de rien' and a self-titled album in 2009.

Their track 'Thé À La Menthe' became their most recognizable piece, partly because it was used in the film 'Ocean's Twelve'. It's a good example of how their sound could be both sharp and atmospheric. Other songs like 'Player' and '20000 Lieues Sous La Merde' show the same kind of dense, word-heavy approach.

They were known for lyrics that dealt with social issues, which sometimes got them into trouble with authorities. That outspoken quality, combined with beats that borrowed from jazz and funk, gave their music a specific texture. They released 'L'or du commun' in 2011, which turned out to be their last album together as a duo.