Gotic - Escenes (1978)
Very cool Spanish progressive album that has a jazzy symphonic quality. The
band relies on sparsely on synthesizer work, which definitely gives a nice
organic feel. The lead instruments are generally classical piano, guitar
and very bright and distinctive flute. The album is entirely instrumental
and is extremely melodic and often very beautiful. It is often compared to
Camel circa The Snow Goose, which I find to be a pretty accurate
description. One is definitely reminded of "Rhyander" on various points
throughout, with the flute way out in front and leaning on a lilting melodic
foundation.
The album is extremely easy to listen to and very enjoyable, often
pure beauty. The lack of vocals gives it a very pleasant ambience and the
songs seem to flow together as one. Some of the truly great melodic themes
on the album reappear throughout. Escenes definitely rewards careful
attention, but also functions as perfectly relaxing background music. Truly
gorgeous music that I can feel growing on me even more.
This is supposed to be one of the finest examples of Spanish
progressive rock, and I'm not disappointed. I'll definitely be exploring
some of that country's offerings in the future.
- Greg Northrup [February 2001]
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