This 2-CD set is a perfect introduction to the wonderful and exciting world of the Spanish progressive rock, loaded with great progrock ideas! The Spanish word 'duende' is used in the art of the flamenco, it pointed at the extraordinary moments when a flamenco artist has total communion with the audience. These moments are rare but very special, often accompanied by "ole's" (this has nothing to do with the awful and cruel bullfights!). On this 2-CD set you will find lots of duende between flamenco and progrock, I compare it with the unique and compelling blend of folk and progrock by Los Jaivas!

On CD-1 there is a lot of variety from bands and musicians, the songs are recorded between 1975 and 1994. SMASH delivers a powerful blend of rock, blues, flamenco and Sixties (Stones, Yardbirds) featuring fiery electric guitar and typical Spanish vocals. ICEBERG, IMAN and GUADALQUIVIR make strong and captivating symphonic jazzrock with a Morish undertone and great interplay between guitar and kebyoards, supported by a dynamic rhythm-section. GUALBERTO plays a flamenco guitar piece entitled "Tarantos para Jimi Hendrix", it sounds as an exciting blend of rock and flamenco featuring violins and electric - and acoustic guitar. Another good track is "Al Andalus" from Spanish rock legend Miguel Rios: it contains a typical Morish atmosphere, distinctive vocals from Miguel Rios and a swinging and catchy rhythm. Of course Spanish most pivotal progrock band TRIANA is included, they play "Quiero contarte" featuring wonderful melancholical vocals and compelling progrock. The track "Aires de la Alameda" from ALAMEDA contains strong Spanish vocals and wonderful piano, it's typical 'Rock andalus' just like the final song "Hablo de una tierra" featuring a very moving duet from the violin-Mellotron and flamenco guitar!

CD-2 contains songs from bands and musicians that are recorded between 1986 and 1996. MEDINA AZAHARA plays heavy progressive with echoes from Marillion, the track "Paseando por la mezquita" is their most Morish/flamenco inspired and sounds powerful and moving. PATA NEGRA (featuring the Amador brothers) plays an exciting blend of rock, blues and flamenco on acoustic guitars. RAIMUNDO AMADOR is also included with the band ARRAJATABLA, they deliver another exciting blend of progrock and flamenco with excellent electric guitar work. A known new band is KETAMA with their strong blend of pop, rock and flamenco featuring typical Spanish vocals. A fine surprise is the music from (again) RAIMUNDO AMADOR in "Ay que gustino pa mis orejas", he plays an unique mix of Bob Marley inspired reggae (with organ and typical rhythm-guitar) and flamenco, very swinging! Another known new band is MANTECA, included with the track "Tarila": a fusion-like mix of flamenco guitar and jazzy piano and saxophone. The final song is from DIEGO THE MORON, he is joined by members from GRANADA, the composition "Despertar (a 'rondena')" delivers a great blend of flamenco guitar and lush keyboards, typical 'Rock andalus'.

Erik Neuteboom

(Prog Archives/Progwalhalla/Background Magazine)