Pierre de Grenoble cover

Pierre de Grenoble

Malicorne · 1973

37 min · 12 tracks · folk music

A vibrant tapestry of traditional French folk intertwined with contemporary arrangements, showcasing rich harmonies and authentic instrumentation.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Pierre de Grenoble — The title track serves as a centerpiece of the album, weaving narrative storytelling with intricate musical layers that exemplify the band's unique blend of tradition and innovation.
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    Au chant de l'alouette — This opening track sets the tone for the album, featuring lively rhythms and captivating melodies that showcase Malicorne's mastery of traditional forms.
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    Le prince d'Orange — This song highlights the group's vocal harmonies and instrumental proficiency, encapsulating the essence of French folklore while appealing to contemporary audiences.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

50 /100
Foothills
Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album blends traditional and contemporary elements effectively, showcasing its role in the French folk revival.

What we noticed

  • Several tracks incorporate call-and-response vocals, enhancing the communal feel typical of folk music.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

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

  • short, lively storytelling pieces
  • vibrant melodies for gatherings
  • playful rhythms for dancing
  • bright harmonies with rich textures

Maybe skip if you

  • seek lengthy, introspective albums
  • prefer heavy production

Where this album fits

Career context
In 1973, when 'Pierre de Grenoble' was released, Malicorne was establishing itself in the French folk revival scene following their debut album 'Les Étrangers' in 1972. This second album solidified their artistic direction, blending traditional melodies with modern sensibilities and setting a foundation for their influence on future folk musicians in France.
Stylistic neighbors
Pentangle· The Watersons· Fairport Convention

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Au chant de l'alouette 2:16
  • 2 Suite scottishe (l'eau de roche) Bourrée 2:54
  • 3 Le long de la mer jolie 2:49
  • 4 Quand j'étais fille à marier 3:53
  • 5 Je suis trop jeunette 1:35
  • 6 Pierre de Grenoble 6:45
  • 7 Le prince d'Orange 3:06
  • 8 Bransles de Bourgogne 3:29
  • 9 Rossignolet du bois 3:24
  • 10 Andro 1:50
  • 11 La pension 1:04
  • 12 La fleur de Lys 4:05

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata