PÉ DE VENTO

Pé de Vento is the second installment by folk band A PRESENÇA DAS FORMIGAS. This LP is a showcase of Portuguese folk and pop elements, in which rock is entirely absent. Songs are short, built on simple melodies and adorned with flourish arrangements. Here and there are found subtle influences from Brasilian music. There are no particularly exciting moments, it is all about smoothness and precision of performance. Vai Tão Sozinho is the only song I would highlight, for its unique beauty.

The overall sound of the LP is highly reminiscent of JÚLIO PERIERA's 1990s work, with slow tempos and perfectionist execution. LPs like O meu Bandolin or Lau Eskutara immediately come to mind. It is a peculiar take on folk music, with excitement and sentiment largely hollowed out, focusing almost entirely on form.

A remarkable aspect of A PRESENÇA DAS FORMIGAS's music is the lack of innovation vis-à-vis contemporary Portuguese folk peers. In what concerns folk itself, this is primarily a backwards looking band, lacking the thrill of modern bands like VELHA GAITEIRA or SONS DA SUÉVIA. Regarding the progressive side, it is also nowhere near trailing ground- breaking paths, as did DIABO NA CRUZ, and of course, the modern folk rock reference in Portugal: DAZKARIEH.

Neither rock, nor progressive, it is not really possible to rate this LP high at ProgArchives. However, the excellent musicianship and the beauty of some of the melodies make it certainly worth of a listen.