FRIPPADA ANDALUZA

Spanish rock is experiencing a renaissance, or rather, a wave of outstanding bands and composers who have turned the genre into something truly impressive?especially for a country without a deep-rooted tradition in rock. Today, Spain has at least 20 or 30 highly original bands making waves in the progressive scene.

But how much does the desire to be unique help or hinder a band? That question comes to mind with Malabriega and their second album, a fusion of Andalusian music and progressive rock. It sounds great overall, but especially in the opening track, Frippada Andaluza (El Mar Limpio)?which, in my opinion, is the album's strongest moment. This song sets the tone for the next 47 minutes. The album continues with Tu Cabello, Duelo, ¿Qué Será?, Reunión (instrumental), La Levedad del Ser, Libertad, Reflejo Vacío and Calamidad.

The album sounded like many things to me, but not like King Crimson or Robert Fripp. It has some elements, but its most original aspect is the fusion with flamenco. Vocalist Juan Castro takes on the role of a cantaor, which is worth noting because his voice often doesn't quite fit with the music or feels somewhat forced. At least for me, it becomes tiring after two or three songs.

That said, the record is well done, and the musicianship is strong. One track that stands out is Reunión, an instrumental where you can really appreciate the band playing on their own, without vocals, allowing their musicianship to shine.

Frippada Andaluza is a very good album. Beyond the cantaor andaluz, the band does a great job, and their sound is excellent. Perhaps the vocal work lacked some nuance?not necessarily Castro's fault, but maybe the band could have incorporated vocal harmonies or even a cantaora to add more variety.

The album closes with Calamidad, a track that finally delivers the "Frippness" that listeners may have been searching for throughout the record.

Malabriega is yet another strong example of the renaissance of new Spanish prog.

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