Crack - "Si Todo Hiciera" [1979] @ 192 (Excellent spanish symphonic prog) Thanks to Ole for this one

While in countries like England, Italy and the United States, the outlook for progressive rock by the late seventies was practically at its bleakest; Spain's scene was at its most prolific stage. While the rest of the world has really had little contact with progressive rock from this country - Spain's media also had little kindness for musicians - there really was an abundance of great music coming from Spain, and Crack was no exception. Probably one of Spain's finest examples of majestic and powerful symphonic progressive, Crack was maybe one of the most Anglo styled of the Spanish bands, although there are obvious cultural references that must not be ignored. With male and female vocals, flute; excellent use of guitars and synthesizers; and a warm and dreamy atmosphere; Crack show that they are an instant winner for symphonic rock fans.

Upon hearing Si Todo Hiciera Crack, it is clear that Crack was a classic symphonic progressive band of the highest order, probably heavily influenced by Italian greats like PFM or Locanda delle Fate. It is grandiose, orchestral, sweeping music with heavy classical flourishes, varied instrumentation and a dramatic flair. Although Si Todo Hiciera lacks the regional and ethnic influences of say, Mezquita, the band does mix what seems to be a Spanish folk feel from time to time. For the most part though, this is just phenomenal symphonic with a heavy emphasis on beautiful, romantic melodies and dramatic development of themes into mammoth climaxes. The band isn't afraid to rock out from time to time either, allowing electric guitar to fire away beneath the shimmering pianos and cascading keyboard and flute themes during the emotional peak of any given track.

Highlighted throughout is a generous helping of classic keys like mellotron and moog, along with some synthesizer and piano. Flute and guitar are both prominently emphasized throughout the album as well. The tracks are generally based around the vocals, which don't stand out in particular, but are at least acceptable as they have some gorgeous melodies to work with. The first two tracks here are monsters, pretty much as good as semi-pastoral, heavily melodic progressive gets. "Descenso en el Mahellstrong" is an instrumental of blistering power when it hits its stride, while "Amantes de le Irrealidad" is a powerful number that stands with the finest work from Quella Vecchia Locanda or PFM. The album doesn't retain the same level for its duration however, as the middle tracks are slightly more ballad-esque and based around the vocals. "Buenos Deseos" features some female vocals in duet with the male lead which are particularly cheesy. Still, these tracks don't significantly drag things down, they're just not at the same extremely high level as the first two.

The album kicks back into gear for the final three songs. Most impressive is the superb title track, which features heart wrenching keyboard and flute interplay. All in all, Crack plays symphonic progressive with a heavy emotional weight, and gorgeously complex melodic feel. Like an amalgamation of Yes and Locanda delle Fate, with a very slight ethnic feel.

Highly Recommended!

-- Taken from a review by Greg Northrup @ http://www.progweed.net

Tracklisting:
1. Descenso en el Mahellstrong
2. Amantes de le Irrealidad
3. Cobarde O Desertor
4. Buenos Deseos
5. Marchanda Una del Cid (Pt. 1, 2)
6. Si Todo Hiciera Crack
7. Epillogo

Line-Up:
Alex Cabral (bass)
Alberto Fontaneda (guitar, flute and vocals)
Mento Hevia (keys and vocals)
Manolo Jiménez (drums)
Rafael Rodríguez (guitar)

Keep Listening!!!!

http://rapidshare.de/files/22834436/Crack.zip.html