Information/Write-up
Emerging from the Sorel-Tracy region of Quebec in 1966, Les Asteks were an unmistakable force in the vibrant 1960s teen beat garage scene. Despite their youth — lead singer and guitarist Michel Champoux was just 11 years old — the group managed to capture a raw, electrifying energy that still resonates with collectors today.
Their debut single, "Cheveux blonds et pantalons" b/w "Hélène," pressed on the local Élysée label, perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the era: primal, immediate, and rebellious.
"Cheveux blonds et pantalons" stands out as their defining statement. A stomping, blues-based rocker in the vein of "I'm A Man" or "Mannish Boy," it carries an infectious, foot-stomping beat that’s both simple and irresistible. Built around a rough, scratchy rhythm, crashing drums, and youthful swagger, the song captures a slice of adolescent bravado, telling the story of a boy who dreams of being the one for a girl saving herself for true love. The organ swells, distant vocals, and the charming imperfections — including occasional "pop" sounds — only add to the record’s raw charm. It's no surprise this track was later compiled on People of Tyme and even covered by Sherbrooke's Les Macchabées decades later.
On the flip, "Hélène" offers a moodier contrast. Written and sung by guitarist Yves Simoneau, the track leans into a more shadowy, minor-key atmosphere. While slower and darker, it still maintains that homemade, lo-fi garage feel that characterizes so much of Quebec's 1960s underground output. There's a subtle haunting quality here, an unexpected depth for a band so young, and it makes the 45 even more remarkable as a document of teenage emotion.
Historically, Les Asteks’ story mirrors the arc of many young Quebec garage groups: a quick rise, regional television appearances (including Expo à go-go during Expo 67), modest record releases, and fierce competition. Their rivalry with Les Lutins, Quebec’s reigning teen garage kings, even led to incidents like fans storming a Les Asteks show and destroying their equipment. Despite this, Les Asteks managed a second single ("On n'est pas bien compris" / "Oui je t'aime") before fading from view by the early 1970s, later backing country star Marcel Martel on tour.
Today, their 45s are prized relics of a remarkable moment when Quebec’s youth embraced rock 'n' roll with unfiltered passion. "Cheveux blonds et pantalons" remains a standout in the province’s early garage canon — a gritty, joyful, and perfectly imperfect slice of teenage rebellion.
-Robert Williston
Michel Champoux: vocals
Yvon Champoux: guitar
Yves Simoneau: guitar
Gilles Beliveau: bass
Ronald Vallée: drums
Written by Yvon Champoux
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