Three musicians from classical, jazz and traditional music backgrounds form Garlic Bread in September 1999: Sandrine Burtin (vocals, violin), Yann Manche (vocals, flute, whistles, uilleann pipes), Damien Lachuer (bouzouki, guitar). During the first six months of their existence, they play in bars and small concert halls, their repertoire consists mainly of traditional Irish themes. The group also participates in Irish music sessions in Lyon, France. Johan Jacquemoud (bass guitar) joins the group in April 2000. This marks the profesionalisation of the group with many concerts performed in established venues and in festivals. An important development can be noted in the nature of their repertoire which, from this point on, also includes original compositions.
After two demos recorded at the open concerts Kfêt de l'INSA (November 200), Festival Musiques A Flot (September 2001) and the confrontation of their musical ability on Irish soil, their first self-produced album "A Four Wheeled Bike" is released in the summer of 2002. The group is then on a definite path to success, performing in major concerts, both in terms of repute and audience numbers. As supporting artists for prestigious groups such as Tri Yann, Lunasa, Atlan, I Muvrini, their audience base has become larger and larger, and this experience also provided them with very enriching musical encounters. In 2003, Garlic Bread participate in the project "Carolan's Dream" in collaboration with the "Concert de l'Hostel Dieu". The first shows are performed in April in the amphitheatre in the "Opéra National de Lyon" and the Seynod Auditorium. This show is now performed regularly all over France. During the summer of 2003, the group toured in the north of France and in Brittany.
After four years together, Garlic Bread started work on the production of their second album "Tell it unto me", released in June 2004, two years after their first album. The group thus confirms its musical evolution through its new repertoire. This CD, a solid base for experimentation and affirmation, provides the opportunity to show the musical commitment of Garlic Bread in their modern and personal treatment of traditional Irish music, whilst always respecting its original spirit.