Album Review: En Passant Par La Lorraine Le Chevalier Du Guet by Mme Van Der Smissen
Alright, let’s talk about this little gem of an album—En Passant Par La Lorraine Le Chevalier Du Guet. It’s one of those records that kinda sneaks up on you, like finding a forgotten postcard in the attic. Released under Pathé back when France was vibing hard with folk and world music, it’s got this old-school charm mixed with some serious storytelling vibes. The genres? Folk, World, Country... oh, and Children's too (yep, it’s got that wholesome family-friendly energy). But don’t let the "children's" tag fool ya—it’s not all nursery rhymes and clapping games.
The star here is Mme Van Der Smissen herself, belting out soprano vocals that feel both regal and cozy, like sipping hot cocoa in a castle library. She’s backed by a mystery piano player whose name no one seems to know, but hey, they’re doing their thing, adding just enough sparkle without stealing the spotlight. And then there are the tracks themselves—simple titles, big impact.
Let me zoom in on two standouts. First up: "Le Chevalier Du Guet." Oh man, this track feels like stepping into a medieval tale where knights ride through misty forests at dawn. Mme Van Der Smissen’s voice soars like she’s narrating some epic legend, but somehow it stays intimate, like she's whispering secrets from another time. You can almost picture kids sitting cross-legged on the floor, wide-eyed, imagining swords and shields. There’s something magical about how her tone dances between playful and dramatic—it sticks with you long after the song ends.
Then there’s "En Passant Par La Lorraine," which hits different. This one’s more grounded, painting vivid pictures of rural life in France. The melody rolls along like a wagon bumping down a dirt road, steady and full of heart. That unknown writer really nailed it—the lyrics have this sing-song quality that makes them stick in your head like gum on a shoe. It’s simple stuff, sure, but sometimes simplicity is exactly what you need to cut straight to the soul.
What I love most about this album is its unpolished charm. It doesn’t try too hard to impress; instead, it invites you in for a cuppa tea and a chat. Like, imagine sitting by a crackling fire while someone tells stories passed down for generations. Sure, the production might sound dated now, but isn’t that part of the fun? It’s raw, real, and refreshingly human.
And honestly, listening to this record made me realize something kinda weird. These songs aren’t just tunes—they’re tiny time capsules. They carry pieces of history, culture, and emotion wrapped up in melodies that still resonate today. Who knew a French folk album could make me nostalgic for places I’ve never even been?
So yeah, if you’re hunting for something quirky yet meaningful, give En Passant Par La Lorraine Le Chevalier Du Guet a spin. Just don’t blame me if you start dreaming in sepia tones or suddenly develop a craving for baguettes.
