Alameda-Alameda (1979)

Alameda were another of the key bands that formed part of the Andalusian rock movement of the 1970s in Spain. Hailing from Seville, they were led by the Marinelli brothers, keyboardists Rafael and Manuel, along with guitarist and singer José Roca, bassist Manuel Rosa, and drummer Luis Moreno. In 1978, with a demo in hand, they sought a record deal, finally signing with CBS and releasing their self-titled debut in 1979 on their subsidiary label, Epic Records. Their sound was more akin to Andalusian romantic rock with jazz fusion influences, based on pleasing vocal harmonies and the Marinelli brothers' dual keyboard work, than to the progressive rock of Triana. The songs are characterized by catchy, flamenco-tinged melodies, featuring pianos and Rosa's guitars, partially blended with powerful Moog synthesizers and supported by a tight rhythm section. There's a very calm and positive atmosphere throughout the album; however, it lacks the intensity of their contemporary Triana, although at times their sound is quite comparable. Tracks imbued with clear jazz-rock influences (“Aires de la Alameda”, “A la vera del Jueves”), melancholic and intense Andalusian rock cuts (“La Pila del Patio”, “Ojos de Triste Llanto”, and “Amanecer en el Puerto”), and nods to progressive jazz (“Hacia el Alba” and “Matices”), make up an energetic and thrilling album of Andalusian rock fusion, instrumentally performed with enviable skill by one of the best Spanish rock bands of all time.