TRIANA

In the late 70s I visited the house of the #1 Dutch proghead Peter van der Laan. After I had told him about my passion for flamenco he showed me the first three albums from Spanish formation Triana that he has ordered directly from the band. During my first listening session I was blown away, I had never heard this unique blend of prog and flamenco, what a discovery! Now to the early 90s, when I had contacted #1 Spanish proghead Angel Romero, via an add in the Spanish prog magazine Sirius. Due to his increasing dust allergy he had to get rid off his extensive prog vinyl collection. I asked him "Do you have music like Triana?", I will never forget his answer, "Yes, of course, we name it Rock Andaluz", that was the start for my Rock Andaluz quest. Angel send me LP's from Cai, Azahar and Medina Azahara, I was in Rock Andaluz Heaven! A few years later I discovered Greg Walker his Syn-Phonic and Ken Golden his Laser's Edge (both Holy Grail mailorder services for progheads) and noticed a lot of Rock Andaluz bands, I bought CD reissues from Mezquita, Iman, Gualdalquivir and Vega, wow. And a few years ago I searched for Rock Andaluz on Google and stumbled on the awesome Spanish prog label 5Lunas, the owner Juan Antonio Vergara is very determined to release early and new Rock Andaluz (and also Spanish prog). So I purchased interesting new Rock Andaluz bands Qamar, Sherish, Anairt and Randy Lopez, and early Rock Andaluz bands Montoro and Mantra, awesome. Now back to Triana, my first Rock Andaluz love.

In comparison with their debut El Patio (1975) this successor entitled Hijos Del Agobio (1977) sounds a bit less elaborate, and no 6+ minute compositions, all 8 songs are between 3 and 6 minutes. Nonetheless it is wonderful and varied Rock Andaluz. Most tracks deliver slow beats and compelling atmospheres featuring strong Spanish vocals (with that typcial melancholical flamenco undertone), howling electric guitar runs, lush vintage keyboards and a dynamic rhythm-section. But also some fluent mid-tempo beats with powerful vocals and intense electric guitar. And even an experimental composition with propulsive percussion and spacey Moog synthesizer drops. The most fascinating moments are the blend of symphonic rock and the flamenco guitar, less omnipresent than on El Patio but still a huge bonus, a thrilling prog experience.

For me bands like Triana, Mezquita, Medina Azahara and Alameda are not symphonic rock, Neo-Prog, jazzrock or folk rock, these bands are Rock Andaluz, due to the very distinctive Spanish vocals and the flamenco elements, blended in an unique way with progressive rock. A big hand for Triana that paved the way for the development of the exciting world of the Rock Andaluz, check out 5Lunas and discover how still alive Rock Andaluz is, 50 years after El Patio!

Triana was a Spanish progressive rock band of the 70's. They were probably the most famous Spanish progressive rock band in those days, or even today. The three members of the band, Jesús De La Rosa (singer, keyboardist and author of a large part of the band's repertoire), Eduardo Rodríguez Rodway (guitarist) and Juan José Palacios Orihuela "Tele" (percussionist), already had a long musical career within the first generation of the Spanish Sevillian rock bands.

Triana was formed in Seville in 1974 with their musical career spread between the 70's and the early 80's. The band took their name from the Seville neighborhood of Triana. The embryo of Triana was in the group Triana Tabaca, which initially had Carlos Attias, Miguel Ríos, Emilio Souto, The Solitary Cantor and Eduardo Rodríguez Rodway, guitarist of Os Payos. In 1973 with Attias away from the band, Jesús De La Rosa took his place as bassist and singer. Finally Juan José Palacios "Tele" joins Rodway and Rosa, on drums, laying the foundations for Triana. The first line up of Triana also had Dolores Montoya and Manuel Molina, although they both quickly left the group to form a duo, Lole y Manuel. So, Triana was reduced to a trio that would be the last format of the band. The initial objective of Triana was to merge flamenco with the progressive rock, in the aim of bands like Pink Floyd, Caravan or the early King Crimson, and many other similar rock bands of the 70's. That fusion sound defined not only Triana, but the rock of Andalusia in general.

Their first three albums clearly reflect the aforementioned trends. Their debut studio album of Triana, generally known as "El Patio" and released in 1975, was a big hit with restless youth despite virtually zero promotion. However, it wasn't a resounding success. But, it was hailed by critics as the best fusion of flamenco and symphonic rock made since the experimentations of the Smash group. On their next album "Hijos Del Agobio" of 1977, published at a critical moment in the modern history of Spain, they are breaking down political issues like the exaltation of freedom. This album features a more progressive trend than its predecessor. It was considered their best work. The album quickly gained critical favor and was listed as the best album of the year. Already as one of the most popular and valued bands of the moment, their third studio album, "Sombra Y Luz" of 1979, maintains all the progressive aspects, although the music is a bit more darker and experimental than the two previous albums, with some jazzy elements and an electric guitar presence.

So, "Sombra Y Luz" is the third album of Triana and that was released in 1979. The line up on the album is Jesús De La Rosa (vocals and keyboards), Eduardo Rodriguez Rodway (vocals, voice and flamenco guitar) and Juan José Palacios (voice, drums and percussion). The album also had the participation of Miguel Angel (vocals), Antonio Pérez (electric guitar), Enrique Carmona (voice and electric guitar), Pepe Roca (voice and electric guitar) and Manolo Rosa (bass).

About the individual tracks, "Una Historia" takes you into the soulful and in the rock soundscapes of the Iberian Peninsula, in which Jesús De La Rosa's singing, which can hardly be surpassed in terms of expressiveness, is at the center and is wrapped in a sublime pathos with the filigree playfulness of the acoustic guitar. "Quiero Contarte" is a more upbeat number in the same vein as "Rumor" from their previous studio album, "Hijos Del Agobio". The title track "Sombra Y Luz", in the instrumental part, after a catchy beginning, has a more complex sound network unexpectedly struck up. The keyboards of Jesús De La Rosa remain elegantly in the background of the track. In the following long track "Hasta Volver", Triana reach their usual strength from the two previous albums in a transfigured pathos and luxuriate in the yearning harmonies. Supple key inserts know how to refine this symphonic euphony in a very pleasant way. "Tiempo Sin Saber" is a classic Triana's track in all senses, with that flamenco influenced progressive music that only they know who to do so well. "Vuelta A La Sombra Y A La Luz" was basically the weird part of the title track that was revisited here. It takes things in a more experiential way, where some more creative ideas were implemented.

Conclusion: With "Sombra Y Luz", Triana completed a brilliant trilogy where the fusion between flamenco and progressive rock is almost perfect. This trilogy put Tiana as one of the best progressive rock bands that appeared in the Iberian Peninsula, one the best exponents of the progressive Latin rock in the 70's and probably the best Spanish progressive rock band in those years. While probably their two previous studio albums "Triana (El Patio)" and "Hijos Del Agobio" can be considered two best works by many, "Sombra Y Luz" is probably more progressive despite being a less cohesive effort. Anyway, "Sombra Y Luz" gave the Spaniards Triana their big commercial breakthrough in 1979. While the most well known English prog rock bands were more in a pop vein, Triana still had their folkloric mainstay on which they could lean. Without completely throwing the progressive symphonic rock idea overboard, the voluptuous use of keys on the third album was scaled back by one level, by emphasizing the emotionality derived from flamenco.

Prog is my Ferrari. Jem Godfrey (Frost*)

Jesus de la Rosa's vocals continue to lead an incredibly strong instrumentation. His interpretation carries a distinctly regional essence that adds significant depth and authenticity to the music. The way he sings conveys emotions that connect deeply with the listener.

This unique essence is skillfully softened by the excellent use of keyboards and synthesizers, which play a crucial role in creating a very rich symphonic atmosphere. The instrumental arrangements are sophisticated and well- balanced, allowing each element to stand out without overshadowing the others. The keyboards and synthesizers not only complement Jesus de la Rosa's voice but also add layers of complexity and sonic richness to the compositions.

The band released "Hijos del Agobio" shortly after the death of dictator Francisco Franco, during a period when, among many other enemies, freedom of expression was obviously one of them. The album's release occurred at a time of great social and cultural upheaval. The fall of the Francoist regime allowed for an explosion of creativity and artistic expression that had been suppressed for decades. The record captured this spirit of change and resistance, resonating deeply with a generation that yearned for freedom and justice.

Musically, the album is a fusion of traditional Spanish influences with modern elements, creating a unique and innovative sound. The lyrics address themes of struggle, hope, and the search for a renewed identity in a Spain that was rediscovering itself. Lyrically, the album delivers songs that reflect the concerns and hopes of Spanish youth during the transition to democracy. Themes of freedom, resistance, and identity quest are recurring.

The album begins with the title track, serving as a powerful statement about the political and social situation of Spain at the time. Lush keyboards, subtle guitar, expressive guitar lines, finely orchestrated harmonic progressions, and passionate, intense vocals start the album in a sublime manner. "Rumor" features ethereal keyboards that contribute to a sense of otherworldliness, creating a sonic environment that seems to transport us to another realm, while its lyrics suggest reflection on the impact of rumors and the need for truth.

"Sentimientos de amor" is one of the album's most accessible tracks, presenting a captivating melody and romantic lyrics that immediately win over the listener. The skillful combination of acoustic and electric guitar creates a rich and engaging sonic texture, providing a moment of lightness and romance amidst denser, more introspective songs. "Recuerdos de Triana" is an instrumental track where the band members demonstrate their ability to create a more experimental musical line.

"Ya Está Bien" is a song that radiates energy and assertiveness, reflecting the urgency of social and political change. Both the lyrics and the music are direct and forceful, driven by a strong rhythm, where the melody is marked by powerful chords and a pulsating beat that creates a sense of constant movement. The instruments come together in powerful synergy, propelling the music forward with determination and vigor. "Necessito" is a track that, despite being the least exciting to me on the album, still showcases the talent and artistic sensitivity of the band.

"Sr. Troncoso" is an acoustic ballad that evokes deep emotion and sincerity, enveloped in a contemplative atmosphere, becoming more energetic as it approaches the end while delivering a message of hope and encouragement to someone going through a process of self-discovery. "Del Crepúsculo Lento Nacerá el Rocío" is the final track of the album and stands out as an epic piece, characterized by several changes in rhythm and atmosphere. The music evolves slowly and carefully, taking the listener on a complex and engaging sonic journey. It is a track that encapsulates the essence of the album and leaves the listener with a feeling of completeness and satisfaction.

"Hijos del Agobio" can easily be cited as one of the best examples of how rock can be combined with local musical traditions to create something genuine and powerful. The fusion of styles and the emotional depth of the album are remarkable, leaving a lasting legacy in Spanish progressive music, demonstrating the importance of engaging with the current social and political context through art.

The first two CD's feature tracks from their 6 studio-albums, spanning the time between 1975 and 1983. In 1983 keyboard player and singer Jesus De La Rosa died in a car accident, then Triana disbanded. By the way, in 1996 drummer Juan José Palacios re-founded Triana with new musicians and recorded 2 albums (in 1996 and 1998), when he died the other musicians continued and released also 2 albums (in 2007 and 2018). From this Triana post-1983 era you will find no tracks on this 3-CD box.

Most of the 24 tracks on CD-1 and CD-2 are taken from their first 3 albums, these songs are the most interesting and captivating, because since album #4 entitled Un Encuentro the music turned from Rock Andaluz into melodic rock with flamenco hints, pretty polished, but also a huge commercial success, Triana albums sold each between 50.000 and 100.000 copies!

Most of the 1975-1979 compositions contain beautiful shifting climates with typical flamenco elements like palmas (handclapping), rasgueado (quick downward strikes across all strings) and picados (quick runs on the guitar with two fingers), along tasteful keyboards (organ, synthesizers, Mellotron, string-ensemble and piano) and moving electric guitar play.

Wonderful examples are:

En El Lago : Beautiful interplay between the flamenco - and electric guitar, in the end a sumptuous conclusion with rasgueado, organ and electric guitar, goose bumps, wow!

Recuerdos De Una Noche : Powerful drums and howling and biting electric guitar runs.

My favorite Rock Andaluz composition is Abre La Puerta (close to 10 minutes), from the 1975 debut LP El Patio. It starts with Mellotron choirs, piano and flamenco guitar (tremolo-technique). Then the typical sensitive and virtuosic flamenco guitar blends with piano and soft synthesizer chords. A fluent and tight rhythm-section carries the music to a powerful acceleration with the typical flamenco vocals, expressive and a bit wailing. The rest of this song contains lots of shifting moods that range from mellow with flamenco guitar and choir-Mellotron to propulsive with powerful drums and howling electric guitar, very moving.

CD-3 is an impressive tribute to Triana by various artists and bands, from other Rock Andaluz legend Medina Azahara to Nuevo Flamenco band Ketama and a wide range of known Spanish singers and musicians.

My highlights.

Rumor by Alameda is a powerful version, embellished with Pepe Roca his awesome voice, perhaps the best in Rock Andaluz.

Desnuda La Mañana by Joaquin Sabina features pleasant organ, fiery guitar and strong vocals.

En El Lago by Ketama delivers wonderful flamenco guitar by master Pepe Habichuela, in a jazzy atmosphere with passionate vocals.

Quiero Contarte by Cristina Del Valle featuring Hevia Y Dorantes presents a variety of instruments, from bagpipes and violin to a swinging piano solo, topped with beautiful female vocals.

Alba lluminosa (Luminosa Mañana) features the legendary singer Lluis Llach, he is one of the main representatives of the socalled Nova Cançó (New Song), a movement of musicians, and singers who defied Francisco Franco's dictatorship by singing political songs in Catalan during a time where the language, and all other cultural manifestations of Catalan identity, were opposed by the regime. This compelling track delivers intense vocals and heavy guitar solo.

Una Noche De Amor Desesperada by El Barrio with intense bluesy guitar, organ and piano, and melancholical vocals, in the atmosphere of the emotional title.

Abre La Puerta by Medina Azahara with harder-edged guitar, what an inspired tribute, and this Rock Andaluz legend is still active, since 1979!

Hasta Volver by Carlos Chaouen with Zaguán (known as the second coming of Triana) featuring inspired vocals, and halfway wah-wah drenched guitar solo.

MUCHAS ALEGRIAS!

Triana is a Spanish progressive rock band. It was formed as a trio in the early 70's. The three musicians came more or less battered to play around and seek life, the drummer Juan José Palacios, the guitarist Eduardo Rodríguez and the keyboardist and singer Jesús de la Rosa. Jesús de la Rosa was the poet and the absolute soul of the group.

Unfortunately, in 1983, he died in a tragic car accident, and with him the group died, for more spurious play-offs that have seen the light since then. The band remained under the name of Triana, without any original member in its ranks.

In their origin, Triana practiced a unique and incomparable mixture of musical elements of marked Andalusian roots with others from newly discovered progressive paradises and which weren't strange to them. It wasn't in vain that they were called "the Andalusian Pink Floyd". It's still admirable even today how they were able to mix the psychedelic atmospheres, with the Spanish guitar, the bulerías rhythm, the cadence and the typical cante Andalusian with palmas.

The first three albums of Triana, those of their progressive/psychedelic era or as we want to call it, release a parsimony, a tranquility, a certainty in what is said and in what is done. Triana's first album, "El Patio" of 1975, already had everything it had to have. Without promotion, without any support, it spread like wildfire among the youth, among the progressive lovers, among the hippies. However, economically it was a disaster because it only sold 75 copies. The fact is that their second album, "Hijos Del Agobio" of 1977, wasn't anything more than a logical continuation of what was made in "El Patio". In its turn, "Sombra Y Luz" in 1979, took beyond all what was proposed on both two first albums.

Triana is perhaps the best known and most successful prog rock band to come out of Spain and it's really not hard to see why. Certainly the band was off to a slow start with their debut, but their second album sold better than their debut thanks to a high profile festival held in Madrid. There's a big reason why Triana was popular in their home country. Their music was quite accessible, included local cultural elements in their music, and unlike Gentle Giant's albums, you don't need to listen to it many times to get in it. It's actually pretty accessible prog. In fact, someone had pretty much described them as a flamenco version of The Moody Blues. I notice some Pink Floyd and King Crimson elements as well. Like the more obscure early 70's British prog rock acts, Triana was more interested in writing and recording great songs, and giving it that Spanish touch which obviously differentiate them from those British acts, than going for tons of tempo changes every second. Yet, the music is progressive enough for the prog rock fan that doesn't always need Gentle Giant's complexity to enjoy it. Triana has that instantly recognizable sound, helped by the vocals.

"Hijos Del Agobio" has eight tracks. The first track is the title track. Lyrically, the poetry of Jesús de la Rosa, always full of symbolism and enigma, is deep and heartbreaking, but not for that desperate. Musically, it has lots of flamenco guitar and tasteful keyboards. The second track "Rumour" can be described by a torn and wonderful melody that rides on the trepidante and subtle battery work, undoubtedly one of the architects of the incredible and peculiar sound of the group.The third track "Sentimento De Amor" is a calm and slow track that speaks of departure, of search of oneself and of encounter. It's a beautiful ballad more oriented towards the classical guitar sound than to the free gypsy spirit. The fourth track "Recuerdos De Triana" is signed and played almost entirely in the same musical line all over the album and is accompanied by the end of voices unleashed. Again, everything on this track reflects the magical music of the whole album. The fifth track "Ya Esta Bien" is on the other hand the band from their more "energetic" side. The music isn't very complex or challenging, and it wouldn't be too far from the truth to call Triana a flamenco-version of The Moody Blues. The sixth track "Necesito" is the logical continuation of the argument that they sustained in the last song. The music is as flamenco heavy as psychedelic music, but with very interesting lyrics. The seventh track "Sr. Troncoso" is a nice ballad, whose rhythmic concept is very curious, in principle accompanied only by a Spanish guitar. Step by step, with a progressive increase in speed, it can bring to us a balsamic climax, beautiful and unique. The eighth track "Del Crepusculo Lento Nacera El Rocio" closes the album with a touch of a very special variety that blends excellent guitar solos and a spectacular synthesizer work. The lyrics are marvelous. It's a perfect end to a nice album.

Conclusion: "Hijos Del Agobio" is a very good album and is very well balanced too. It has some very good tracks, of which standout, in terms of prog, the title track, "Sentimiento De Amor" and "Necesito". But, in general, all tracks on the album are good. They played quite simple soft symphonic prog rock music with a very strong flamenco-influence. "Hijos Del Agobio" is, definitely, one of the highlights of the playful, highly melodic flamenco-prog. Triana can be added to Carmen, as one of the best and most representative prog bands with a cross between prog and flamenco music.

Prog is my Ferrari. Jem Godfrey (Frost*)

Triana's debut album is the classic symphonic prog type, that you are used to listening to in Yes and Camel. With a minor tweak the heavy influences of Spanish tango.

This element is inserted in two ways, first, there is an acoustic guitar which is present in the songs, it's always used in a creative form and help to give the feeling of the music, sometimes with fast-paced rhythms and other times in a more slow, focused and beautiful manner. The other tango element is the vocals, they are all sung in Spanish in a very emotive way, the singer can hit high notes and have an excellent voice.

These ingredients make the music feel different from its other counterparts at the time and give kinda a "national touch" to the opus, remembering us of his origin country but never crossing the borders and becoming folk. The progressive aspect of the band is perfect too, they transit between the epic and emotional and all tracks are just incredible pieces.

The electric guitar is used in a sophisticated way, always gaining the highlight in the right moment and playing crazy dope solos. The keyboard is inserted sometimes as an atmospheric instrument, playing in the background to help us feel the music, or it takes the lead and shows us equally great solos.

The drums and bass are utilized more like support instruments (as usual in rock). The drummer uses his parts to create an epic feel to the tracks, with loud and strong sections before the other members of the band receive the highlight, it has certain segments of fast-paced drumming where it shows the great skill of the musician. The bass is naturally a more "modest" instrument and is just used to keep the beat of the song and tie everything together, but even with their simple lines, it is still inserted in a very effective way.

To summarize, we have an awesome vocalist, perfect instrumentation with delightful songwriting. "El Patio" is a masterpiece of prog-rock music and must be listened to by every fan of the genre. 5 Stars.

The second track Luminosa Manana is another favorite. Honestly if you got social anxiety, just pop in some earbuds while out in public and throw this track on, it just pumps me up. It opens with very "free" feeling instrumentation before the acoustic guitar takes over dropping this filthy Spanish guitar motif with claps and synths layering on top of it. The vocals once again just blow me away with their brooding and larger than life delivery. The track develops into a more flowing cadence with stunning sonic details soaring past you on all sides. Another great track.

Recuerdos de una Noche keeps the same energy with more of that very sinister and menacing sound i've been noting. We kick into a smooth 5/4 groove with very organic instrumentation and vocals providing memorable counterpoint to the afforementioned headbanging rhythm. In the latter half there's a very hard hitting distorted guitar solo and man, that tone is genuinely HEAVY.

Se De Un Lugar was a track that blew my socks off right from the get-go. With a voice seemingly coming from the heavens, grand and passionate vocals kick off the track. This is another song with a very catchy main hook, but what really stands out about this track is the experimental nature of it. The passage starting at 2:11 is gorgeous and it just demands my attention with these layered electric guitars and synths leading us through instrumental ecstasy. It's twists and turns like these that make this album so special, every time I revisit it I'm just blown away because of the density of some of these tracks. Every listen you just hear so many new details. Every note of this instrumental is just on the dot and dialed in and the way it seamlessly flows the listener right into the mighty conclusion that's delivered is just as satisfying. I have to highlight how they choose to end the song, because I love how sort of unconventional and quirky it is. Rather than end on a big crescendo, this track ends on a very fascinating note moreso fizzling out with a greater emphasis on the atmosphere and the overall feel,

Dialogo is another very solid song and it's a nice breather between two very grand and epic songs. This is a very acoustic guitar-centric song stripping down to just that towards the middle of the track for a little spanish guitar solo. The synth begins playing around it carefully easing the listener back into the vocal passage. I find this track to be the most subtle of the songs we get here. It's more of a slowburn but it stands tall with its strong song structure as well as gratifying contrast and pay-offs.

En El Lago is essentially the big grand finale of the album and it's just an exciting trip front to finish. The emphasis on the vocals on this song, more great catchy vocal melodies and ardent instrumentation to back it up. The track stays steady at a high place for a while before delving into a both beautiful and vigorous playout in the final minute and a half. Bookending the album is the short and sweet Todo es de Color with more of a folky feel to it with the sound of flowing water, birds, and just acoustic guitar and vocals closing out the album with a little bit of a peaceful whimsical feel. A very nice little cooldown

Listen to this album, an essential for any 70s prog fan.

9/10

Classified as Rock Andaluz or Flamenco prog, "El Patio" confidently synthesizes their own style as an invigorating alchemy of flamenco with the symphonic prog and RPI of its day. I will add you don't need to have heard this in 1975 to wax nostalgic about it today, which is a rare gift indeed. The acoustic and electric guitars, mellotron choirs, string synthesizers and organ are all arranged in vintage permutations and, combined with the robust yet languid romantic vocals, set my spine a-shivering. The opening number "Abre la Puerta" is the longest and also the most accomplished, and, while it might be a mere love song, seems a call to arms for the entire movement, distilling the idealism that only comes naturally to youth. Even the drum solo that ushers in the instrumental reprise is note-perfect.

Not surprisingly, Arabic sounding motifs swirl about in tracks like "Recuerdos de Una Noche", while as power balladeers they flatten the tentative opposition on the penultimate "En El Lago" with a twin attack of shimmering organ and mostly acoustic or sweetly plucked lead guitar. Well, except for a 30 second passage towards the end that might be the heaviest moment of all. I can imagine that early TRIANA established the influence on numerous yet unformed Andalusian bands, MEDINA AZAHARA for one.

"El Patio" is one of the most fully realized inaugural prog releases of its day. It remains a milestone album for a sui generis prog offshoot, and is eminently listenable to boot.

Yes, who knew that flamenco and keyboards would make such a happy marriage? I am really surprised on how thick and rich Triana's sound is. Frankly, I thought at first that they were Italians because their approach is really original and intense. In fact, it's pretty much a gypsy-symphonic-Le Orme blend meaning grandiose moments of thick keyboard beauty, sexy classical guitar licks (oh so plenty) and talented singing...in espagnol por favor (not italian).

They did a splendid remastering for their 40th Anniversary and even without the super production, I was still sold at the very first listen. When 'Abre la Puerta' started, full mellotron ahead, grand piano and sizzling spanish guitar I thought 'Oh wow! How did I miss this in 15 years as a progger?!?' A record with the perfect atmosphere for dusk listenings, plunging you into a dynamic blend of flamenco swing and tempered progressive elements. It's just the right dose, not too much keys, not too much flamenco but still rocking in the Andalousian free world.

It's my only ecounter with this special formula and I must say that these guys knew what they were doing. Many times I shouted 'damn!' half smiling in awe, relishing on this well crafted record. If you missed it, take a few minutes to get around this great, great album and like me, raise your eyebrows in admiration.

A not-so-well-known-classic (it's so unusual!) but deserving more praise from the proggers.

This is the Holy Grail of the Spanish progressive rock, a very comprehensive box set featuring a 2-CD compilation and a DVD from Triana, the band that speerheaded the Rock Andaluz movement. The Spanish people loved their music and sung the emotional lyrics after the dictatorship of Franco (1939-1975): 'The guitar in the morning, it spoke of freedom, you hear a rumor in the corners, that announces that it will join, the day when all men, together they can walk, the guitar in the morning' (translation from Spanish in Rumor, 1977). Triana often played for massive crowds in Spain and most of their albums got the platinum status! Unfortunately in '83 band member Jesus De La Rosa died in a car accident and Triana was no longer. Then their record company released a lot of compilation albums during the years. This one from 2004 contains two discs with 24 tracks: 6 out of 7 from El Patio (1975), 7 out of 8 from Hijos Del Agobio (1977), 4 out of 6 from Sombra Y Luz (1979), 4 out of 9 from Un Encuentro (1980), 1 out of 7 from Triana (1981) and 2 out of 7 from ' Llego El Dia (1983). So the record company decided to focus on their best and most progressive era, the first three albums.

The 16-page booklet features the lyrics of the compilations songs and the tracklist of all 6 studio albums, along some nice band pictures. On the back of the 'fold out covers' of this box set you will find short stories in Spanish from the first Triana manager Javier Garcia-Pelayo , the first producer of Triana Gonzalo Garcia-Pelayo and Triana biographer Luis Clemente.

The DVD is a 55 minute documentary with (often) rare footage from several TV music programs like Mundo Pop (1974), Ahora (1975), Popgrama 1979 (beautiful scene in a Morish palace), and Aplauso (from '79 until '81), along two live tracks (Tu Frialdad and Una Noche De Amor Desesperada). Most of the 13 songs are interrupted by commentary from the band members, people who worked with Triana and who are influenced by Triana, like a musician from Ketama, the known 'new flamenco movement'. The DVD footage is an exciting visual impression of the band members playing the distinctive flamenco guitars (propulsive flamenco solo - and rhythm guitar), and the electric instruments, from howling electric guitar (great double-neck guitar) to a lot of vintage keyboards: warm string-ensemble, distinctive Fender Rhodes electric piano, slow Moog synthesizer runs, and lots of organ. This is topped by moving Andalusian vocals, expressive with a bit wailing undertone. Some songs from the later period sound a bit polished (like Corre), but in general this DVD shows a stunning and very talented band. Triana made unsurpassed music that sounds like the perfect marriage between the world of progressive rock and the world of the ethnic Spanish flamenco, generally known as Rock Andaluz.

If you are up to discover Triana, the most legendary Spanish progressive rock band and most pivotal Rock Andaluz formation, this is an exciting historical document, despite the less interesting tracks from the 1980-1983 era.