SOMBRA Y LUZ

Although very much praised by now, the first two albums of the band were a total mess in terms of sales (even in their home country). But things changed dramatically with Sombra Y Luz. This album got the necessary promotion it deserved and sold pretty well in Spain (over 250,000 albums).

There are some excellent tracks featured on this album, even if their early flamenco/symph and unique style is abandoned little by little. Of course, the emotional and so Spanish vocals are very much present during Una Historia. It is a song full of emotion and strong themes.

Shadow and Light (which means Sombra Y Luz) is yet another good album from the band, but they were investigating new sounds already: the jazzy Quiero Contarte brings a new and interesting angle in their work. for the recording of this album, the band reverted to the basic trio of their debut and Eduardo Rodriguez plays an excellent electric guitar throughout the whole of this good song.

Triana hasn't forgotten its roots of course: the excellent title track is there to remind us that the band is originating from a suburb of Seville (Triana is the name of the place). The song is also more difficult to apprehend: it is quite chaotic and experimental for most of its duration. It is one of the least accessible track of their whole discography. Fully psychedelic aznd extremely weird.

The epic of this album is also the most accomplished song form this Sombra Y Luz album. Several theme changes, wonderful and symphonic keys parts and as usual in their best tracks, this incredible mix of Andalusia music (even Middle-Eastern one) combined to some brilliant symphonic one. Hasta Volver is the first highlight from this work.

I know I'm repeating myself but the combination of flamenco with prog is pretty unique. Even if some other Spanish bands brought some of the ideas of Triana in their work, no one came close to this brilliant mix; which sounds totally different in some sort. But when it is played so fervently, one can only stand up and applaud. It is really the only reaction I can suggest while listening to the very special Tiempo Sin Saber. Another highlight.

This album is probably not as good as their first two ones. The innovative feeling is probably not the same as for their debut album. Still, this is a good album that deserves more exposures on this site.

Three stars.