EL BUFO DE LA CORT

A spanish neo prog band, that sings in catalonian dialect and with a CD named like that (El Bufo De la Cort means Jester) is something you don´t see every day. It makes you think their most important reference might be the great Marillion of the 80´s. And it is, in a way. The first tracfk is typical Marillion copycat, but the remaining tracks, although still very much influenced by this english band, have a very personal sound.

The core of the band is the duo Enric Pascual ( vocals, drums, keyboards and percussion), also responsible for all the lyrics and most of the music, and Conrad Dubé (bass, keyboards and vocals). They are helped by Pere Mestres (electric guitars) and Jaume Moncusi (keyboards) plus Dani Anguera (guitars on two tracks). The resulting CD is very pleasant symphonic Rock sung in their native language (which sounds very good and give them a distinctive charm). Pascual does not have a very outstanding voice, but it fits well within their ramework. The guy certainly knows how to deliever the songs with passion what lacks in technique.

The guitar parts are excellent, with some very melodic solos and licks (very much in the Steve Rothery vein, and one of the album´s highlights)) and the keyboards are simply wonderful: very tastefully arranged and played. Production is only average, but adequate. There are no fillers, all the tracks are good, with many emotional, poignant moments and some powerful instrumental breaks here and thre. Pascual is quite a talented songwriter, but I believe he is not at his peak yet.

I´m really glad I found this CD and I hope Dr No will release a follow up soon. If you enjoy neo prog, you should not miss this one. A nice surprise!

Rating: something between 3,5 and 4 stars.