MALICORNE French Folk Rock France

MALICORNE Band Description:

In the 1970s, France was experiencing a renewed interest in its cultural heritage. Artists looked back to their roots while seeking ways to express themselves in a modern context. Amidst this wave, the band Malicorne emerged, blending the energy of rock music with the enchanting melodies and stories of traditional French folk songs.

Gabriel and Marie Yacoub founded Malicorne in 1973 alongside Hughes de Courson and Laurent Vercambre. Their vision was clear: make the music of rural France, with its tales of harvests, lost love, and the changing of the seasons, accessible to a new generation. Malicorne's sound was unmistakable, built on guitars, vocals, and a captivating assortment of traditional instruments like the hurdy-gurdy, dulcimer, and crumhorn.

Their self-titled debut album, simply Malicorne (1974), paved the way for a string of critically acclaimed releases. Malicorne 2 (1975) continued to refine their fresh take on folk, while Almanach (1976) and L'Extraordinaire Tour de France d'Adélard Rousseau (1977) showcased their growing musical ambition.

These four albums established Malicorne as a leading force in French folk-rock. Their work captured the imagination of listeners who longed for an authentic connection to their musical heritage, presented in a dynamic and contemporary style. Though Malicorne's history included periods of disbandment and reformation, their influence endured. They played a crucial role in bringing traditional French music to a wider audience, inspiring countless musicians who followed.