Beautiful, haunting, interesting. French folk troupe Malicorne continue to flesh out their brand of progressive medieval music on 1976's Almanach. The sound is complex and features what seems like an ever-expanding array of instrumentation, including mandolin, violin, cello, electric dulcimer, bouzouki, crumhorn, hurdy-gurdy, epinette de Vosges, and psaltery; however, it's the layered 4-part vocal harmonies that steal the show. Also, the addition of the talented Hughes de Courson stirs a few classical influences into the mix. It may not reach the emotional heights of its predecessor, but Almanach is arguably Malicorne's most consistent effort and is recommended listening for those who like the idea of wandering minstrels with electric guitars.
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