CASA ENCANTADA

Here the upgrade path to future 14 BIS is becoming apparent. The style is poppier and more countrified than on "Criaturas". It's still quirkier than straightforward pop could ever be, and more acoustically oriented, but I feel like this has been done much better before, by say "Recordando O Das Macas" . With most tracks in the 2-4 minute range, and a languid tempo predominating, each tune affords precious few diversions, but the title cut at least segues from mellow to upbeat in a convincing manner. The instrumental "Solaris" gets the nod for me as persistent falsettos on the generally weak vocal tracks wear thin, the worse being "O Vôo Da Fênix", which is not helped by a few lead guitar licks that are woefully out of place.

When all is said and done, O TERCO will best be remembered as the precursor to a good pop group with a few vestiges of progressive rock. At this point in their career, the progressive is spelled with a small p and the pop isn't even that good. If you must have one, go with "Criaturas".