MAMALLUCA - OBRAS SINFÓNICAS VOL. 1

I have reviewed several albums of this band and rated them on a prog scale. And therefore, they didn't score very high. This album features a backing symphonic ensemble, which has never been a favourite of mine.

Vocals are as usual below par and when I listen to such a cacophony as "Chaski", I only have one option. Press next.

This album might opened a new genre : orchestral folk. Might be interesting but I can't endorse such perception. Things are slightly improving with "Camino Estrellado", but let's be honest, this is just average music.

And the trumpets intro for "Cerro De La Virgen" has more to do with a peplum soundtrack than with a prog song. Being folkloric. They really sound awful during almost seven minutes (the trumpets, I mean). And this is a long time, even if some good guitar notes are very welcome during the final part, they are completely ruined by the over-invading orchestra.

The only good track from this offering is IMHHO the title track. Great guitar intro but hell! These vocals, again! Some great percussion work reminds me of their debut, while Los Jaivas produced some Santana oriented songs.

Mamalluca is a complex number, which changes from mood very often. Subtle piano sounds are combined with a more discrete orchestra and beautiful fluting appears as well. If only this album were holding more of these great moments...A vibrant song. But the one and only from this album.

Melancholy, sweetness, inspiration. You all get this in here. As if the band was throwing all his forces in this closing and brilliant number. Fortunately it lasts for almost a third of this album.

But due to the very poor work before Mamalluca, I can't rate this album more than two stars.