HAIZEA

In this first of 2 disks released during Basque group HAIZEA's attenuated existence, two founding members Txomin Artola and Amaia Zubiria actually share lead vocal duties, both solo and together. The largely acoustic arrangements project like a hybrid of slightly stoned Anglo and American folk rock (guitars and vocals) with a measured take on Latin American folk (flutes) and a dollop of campfire oriented Krautfolk (distorted, jammy guitars and bell-like percussion). Without your handy Basque English dictionary this could be derivative, albeit well played folk rock from anywhere. Not surprisingly, interest spikes on the closing 10 minute number where the group half senses that it's time for a bit of a breakout. But a bit is all you get. Pleasant but as ephemeral as the wind. 2.5 stars.