What makes Almanach by Malicorne notable?

Almanach is significant for its role in revitalizing interest in French folk music during the 1970s, contributing to a broader cultural movement that celebrated regional traditions. The album received critical acclaim, establishing Malicorne as key figures in the folk music scene, influencing future generations of artists dedicated to preserving and modernizing folk traditions. Released in 1976, Almanach marked Malicorne's third album and showcased their growing prominence in the French folk revival scene. By this time, the band had established a distinct sound that blended traditional folk with innovative arrangements, setting them apart from their contemporaries.

Almanach works well if you're into dynamic emotional journeys, long, immersive listening sessions and storytelling through song.

How many songs are on Almanach?

Almanach has 13 tracks, running approximately 48 minutes.

Released 50 years ago

Almanach

Malicorne · 1976

48 min · 13 tracks · folk music

A vibrant tapestry of traditional French folk melodies interwoven with rich harmonies and dynamic instrumentation.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Quand j’étais chez mon père — This track features poignant storytelling paired with haunting vocals, encapsulating the essence of nostalgia and familial ties inherent in French folk tradition.
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Les Tristes Noces — With its extended length, this song takes listeners on an emotional journey through intricate lyrics and a captivating arrangement that showcases the band's musical depth.
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L’Écolier assassin — The narrative style and dramatic delivery of this track highlight Malicorne's ability to blend storytelling with musicality, making it a standout moment within the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

60 /100

Treeline

Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

Almanach effectively blends traditional melodies with innovative arrangements, reflecting its role in the French folk revival.

What we noticed

Several tracks incorporate call-and-response structures, enhancing the communal feel typical of folk music.
The tempo varies significantly across tracks, with some maintaining a lively pace while others slow down for reflective moments.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

dynamic emotional journeys
long, immersive listening sessions
storytelling through song
wave-like pacing and flow

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1976, Almanach marked Malicorne's third album and showcased their growing prominence in the French folk revival scene. By this time, the band had established a distinct sound that blended traditional folk with innovative arrangements, setting them apart from their contemporaries.
Stylistic neighbors: Pentangle· The Watersons· Fairport Convention

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Salut à la compagnie 0:55
2 Quand j’étais chez mon père 3:44
3 Margot 0:58
4 Les Tristes Noces 7:44
5 Voici venir le joli mai 0:24
6 Voici la Saint Jean (ronde) 3:13
7 Le Luneux 5:03
8 Branle de la haie 2:08
9 Quand je menai mes chevaux boire 4:39
10 La Fille au cresson 3:40
11 L’Écolier assassin 8:38
12 Noël est arrivé 2:03
13 La Fiancée du timbalier 5:44

What to play next

Listen next

Malicorne 4

1977

Go back to

Malicorne 2

1975

Full Malicorne discography Artists like Malicorne

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata