Vega ‎– Andaluza (1978, LP, Spain)

Tracklist:
A1. Triana ‎– 3:54
A2. Zona Rosa ‎– 5:52
A3. Origen ‎– 5:05
B1. Arco Iris ‎– 3:30
B2. Andaluza ‎– 5:30
B3. Lamentos ‎– 6:02

Musicians:
Bass – Guty López
Drums – Larry Martín
Guitar – Enrique Carmona, Tomás Vega
Percussion – Pedro Ample
Piano, Organ, Synth [Mini Moog] – Rafael Guillermo
[Strings] – Julián Llinás (tracks: A1, B2)


VEGA were one of several Andalusian and Spanish bands who flourished in the mid- to late seventies by making music that blended flamenco, folk and jazz at times with English progressive tendencies, often resulting in a colorful and rich fusion sound. Acts like TRIANA, CAI, MEZQUITA and AZAHAR would establish themselves as the preeminent players on these scenes, along with the more contemporary counterparts like LOS CANARIOS and ALAMEDA.

In this vein VEGA combined Andalusian instrumentation (and sometimes traditional arrangements) with a less well-defined progressive bent, emphasizing instead a heavy flamenco influence and the showcased guitar work of band leader Tómas Vega. Vega had been a member of the earlier Spanish band LOS GRIMMS, and would also, along with bandmate Jorge Pardo, lend his name to a couple DOLORES (Pedro Ruy Blas) records in the same timeframe.

The group released three albums in three years, each accompanied by one single. The first two are heavily imbued with flamenco-driven fusion compositions, while the final release 'Sol de Oscuridad' seemed to be more intended as an attempt at commercial success with vocals and repetitive, less original arrangements. The band was already in its death throes by the time the third album released.

VEGA were a minor player in an ample line of Spanish and Andalusian prog bands of the seventies and eighties. While their contributions don't generally rank among the greatest acts of that segment, they are worthy of recognition and inclusion in these ProgAcrhives.