Mezquita-Recuerdos de mi Tierra (1979)

Under the spell of the fusion of Arab and Castilian cultures, one of the most formidable bands in Spanish progressive rock emerged. Formed a few years before Spain freed itself from an authoritarian regime that had somewhat restricted the artistic expression of Spanish groups, Mezquita was founded in the emblematic city of Córdoba, a magical place where the Arabs held an impressive Islamic stronghold in the heart of the vast Spanish empire. The band consisted of José Rafael García (guitar), Randy López (bass), Rosca López (keyboards), and Rafael Zorrilla (drums). It wasn't until the end of the 70s that Mezquita released their first full-length album, "Recuerdos de mi Tierra" (Memories of My Land), where they showcased their extensive cultural heritage reflected in music full of instrumental virtuosity with fascinating flamenco and Spanish guitars, ardent Mellotron sounds, and a traditional folk melodic base, all under a style that fused jazz rock, flamenco, and the usual demands of progressive rock.