CIRQUELECTRIC

Glazz is a Spanish trio from Cadiz, South-Spain, two years ago they released their debut CD entitled Let's Glazz. Then Glazz was asked to perform on many places, from Cuba to the UK and from Japan to their own country, even with legendary PFM. The basis instruments are bass, guitar an drums but all members play also keyboards, and a wide range of instruments. And on this second effort Cirquelectric guest musicians are also invited, they play on the distinctive Theremin, xylophone, djembe and Spanish guitar. Remarkable is the presence of Rock Andaluz legend singer Miguel Rios, he sings in Alehop (a kind of pleasant poprock).

Cirquelectric is a concept, the circus, a wonderful metaphor for their varied music, loaded with compositorial highlights and daring experiments, from outstanding musicians.

The (mainly) 21 tracks change frequently in style, atmosphere and colouring by the instruments. The one time swinging wth jazzy piano or experimental with lots of sounds. The other time warm with a folky violin or piano and compelling modern prog, with hints from King Crimson and Yes (especially due to the steel guitar).

The variety and contrasts are huge, just listen to the difference between the dreamy El Hipnotizador (twanging acoustic guitars and fretless bass) and the heavy Los Forzudos (fiery guitar with wah-wah). Two other strong compositions are the alternating Saltimbanquis (lush instrumentation and in the final part a flamenco/jazz climate like the Paco Lucia Sextet) and the surprising and strongly build-up Patrick, El Mago Novato (captivating blend of folk, classical and symphonic rock).

After Albatros, Senogul and Kotebel, this Glazz is another excellent, varied and interesting (and overlooked) Spanish prog bands from the last two decades to discover. Prog can stil be prog, just listen to Glazz!

This review is for Cesar Inca, who has done so much for the Spanish prog on PA, and who was born in Cadiz, the city of Glazz.