FANDANGOS IN SPACE

Many years ago a friend advised me to buy this album (funny, I own another LP version, from Paramount Records) because he knew I am a fan from flamenco (an 'aficionado'). I'm still very grateful to him because "Fandangos in space" is one of the most amazing blends of folk and progrock, not to compare with other 'folk-prog' gems from LOS JAIVAS or TRIANA. The band features members from Spain and the UK, including David Allen (vocals, 6-string electric guitar and flamenco guitar) and ex-Jethro Tull drummer John Glascock (what's in a name?!).

The album delivers the unique sound of Carmen in eleven varied compositions: often an exciting blend of rock (fiery electric guitar, powerful rhythms) and flamenco (guitar, handclapping) and an emphasis on the vocals featuring the very distinctive voice from David Allen (from a cynical undertone to a bit theatrical) and great vocal harmonies from most members, at some moments even in the Spanish language. A few songs or parts contain the captivating art of the flamenco guitar, including the tremolo technique (evoking "Recuerdos de la Alhambra" from Tarrega). Other tracks feature wonderful violin- Mellotron waves or some synthesizer flights. The music from Carmen sound not always accesible (you have to be up to the vocal overtones and flamenco rhythms) but it's such a dynamic and adventurous prog, SPLENDID!!

As a proghead, a Tronmaniac and an aficionado I'm very excited about this album (as you must have noticed in my review). But when I took for the first time a look at the back cover picture from senora Angela Allen, I was stunned: what a gorgeous lady, dressed in a beautiful flamenco robe and .. she plays the Mellotron, THIS GAVE SUCH A SENSATIONAL EXTRA DIMENSION TO THE MUSIC WHILE LISTENING TO THIS ALBUM!!