QUENTADHARKËN

AMAROK, with a decade-long history since their debut "Els Nostres Petits Amics" in 1994, has continually evolved and matured with each album release. Their latest offering, "Quentadharkën," solidifies their position as one of Spain's foremost progressive rock bands. Led by Robert Santamaria, the group explores a captivating fusion of sounds, notably incorporating oriental elements, mainly Arabic and Turkish influences, which lend a unique and mesmerizing dimension to their music.

"Quentadharkën", translating to "Song of the defeated darkness", is a testament to the band's artistic ambition and musical prowess. AMAROK creates a rich sonic tapestry by employing a diverse array of instruments, including acoustic guitars, oboe, violin, piano, didgeridoo, tabla, saxophone, organ, and percussion. Arabic and Turkish musical flavors are infused through saz, kanun, santur, autoharp, violin, and oriental percussions. Marta Segura's vocals shine throughout, drawing comparisons to the ethereal quality of Teresa Salgueiro (of the Portuguese group Madredeus).

The album is structured into three suites: 'Tierra Boreal', 'La Espiral', and the titular 'Quentadhärken', accompanied by four standalone tracks. Among these, the standout piece 'Hsieh' commands attention with its expansive length and intricate composition. 'Quentadhärken,' the album's centerpiece, unfolds across five movements, weaving a narrative of love, conflict, and redemption, traversing realms of shadow and light.

While the album's additional cuts may disrupt the flow, the core music of "Quentadharkën" remains exceptional, showcasing AMAROK's refined and mature approach to progressive rock. Overall, "Quentadharkën" is a highly recommended listening experience, demonstrating the band's mastery of their craft and ability to push musical exploration's boundaries.