TORMENTES

People who wished late King Crimson to be a little fresher and jazzier will be lucky to discover Spanish progressive fusion band Gurth. Frippesque guitars are all over their first record "Tormentes", issued early in 2008. On the other hand, there is a whole lot of jazzy arrangements and improvisations. Other recognizable influence which comes to mind is Return to Forever. But it should be said: these Barcelonian musicians don't just copy styles. Gurth is really something else, they developed their own and very much recognizable style, quite authentic and very energetic.

The group consist of a drummer and 4 guitarists: bas, synth and two electric. However, the music doesn't come over that much of a guitar music, thanks to collaborations and the use of vibraphone and synth guitar. The compositions are mostly optimistic instrumentals, may be a little raw on arrangements and production. There are also a few songs with vocal, sung in Catalonian. This vocal part is actually a thing they should thoroughly think over. The voice sounds quite enthusiastic and funny, but not good enough to be a substantial addition to the music.

I also have some doubts about the cover of the cd. It is funny all right, but quite suggestive, and may be even just a little more than a good taste will allow. Then, the name of the group. Is it a part of the word Yogurth (Spanish for yogurt)? There is this personage on the cover painting, holding a cup with "YO GURTH". Or has it something to do with a slang word "gurth" ? circumference of a male genital part? It shouldn't matter actually - music is what counts. However to me, this and the weak vocals still lessen the overall positive impression of the record.