Since I kinda chose to abandon my exploration of King Gizard's discography (sorry luke), I'm investing my time into finally delving deep into the works of 3 giants of latinamerican (and overall hispanic) rock: Spinetta, Charly García, and Gustavo Cerati. I'm going in mostly chronological order, and although I've got *a lot* to cover, the little I've sampled has impressed me enough to finally do this. Plus, I want enough material to start spamming them in roulettes
Anyway, so far I've got...
Almendra Almendra
Spinetta's first band, formed with his high school friends when they were 15! He must have been 19 when they recorded and released their debut, and damn, it's extremely impressive for such young kids to pull off this kind of stuff. Although it's a bit dated in terms of production (it's a mono recording after all), the songs are quite fun and varied - you've got some lovely ballads and many rocking tunes. It's quite interesting to see how his poetic lyrics where beginning to form.
Sui Generis Vida
Very lovely record, a very interesting first album by Charly and his friend. Quite a heartwarming Folk album, excellent melodies and although the harmonies are simple, they are very effective. Excellent use of reverb, it gives this a lot of space to breathe. I'll definitely revisit it and I'm looking forward to the next album, which I already know a song from.
Pescado Rabioso Desatormentándonos
Fun album by El Flaco, it's mainly a Blues Rock effort with some Hard Rock and Psychedelic elements. Feels a bit repetitive for my taste though, and considering I'm not a huge fan of said styles, I still enjoyed it.
La Máquina de Hacer Pájaros La Máquina de Hacer Pájaros
Now this is an interesting one - Charly had set out on a mission to make "Symphonic Rock", which today we'd call Progressive Rock, but back then he had a different vision from the British artists like Yes or Genesis. There are many different sounds here - from lovely quiet moments, almost ballads, to fierce drumming, intricate instrumental passages, many layers of vocal harmonies, and more. In particular the closing track is just amazing, with a very emotional and beautiful ending.
Invisible Invisible
What was up back then with titling your debut album after your band name?
Anyway, I'm sort of revisiting this album, and I'm still unsure of what to think about it. It's not bad at all, in fact is very well-written, and varied, but I'm not digging many of the songs I'm afraid. I'll eventually revisit it I guess.