Vagalume (2011)
Vagalume is the debut album by Spanish progressive rock band Absente H. The group has been around for a few years, developing its concept of symphonic-progressive rock. Absente H is influenced by the classics of the 1970s like Pink Floyd, Yes, Genesis and Camel, and also by newer acts such as Flower Kings and Porcupine Tree.
Despite the previously mentioned influences, Absente H has developed its own sound which is based on epic pieces with engaging vocals, and musical interplay between the guitars, keyboards, flute and violin. If you like mellotron, you will find it used throughout the album. It’s hard to know if it’s a real mellotron or one of the emulators available, but the mesmerizing result is what counts.
The Spanish flavor of Absente H centers on the vocals which are in Spanish and sometimes reminds me of the great Argentine prog groups of the 1970s. David Pérez’s vocals make beautiful combinations with the background vocals of the two female singers. The lyrics cover a wide range of topics, ranging from environmental issues to movie tributes, mythology and timeless Spanish poetry by Rosalía De Castro.
The line-up on Vagalume includes David Pérez on vocals; Juan Pedro Miralles on keyboards; Jesús González on drums; Alfonso Pazos on bass; María José Izquierdo on flute & backing vocals; María Sánchez on violin & backing vocals; and Víctor García on guitars.
Vagalume is an impressive and immediately accessible debut recording by one of the most articulate progressive rock acts in Spain.
Great review of Absente H. This progressive rock band is receiving very good reviews with his debut album “Vagalume”, an album that does not have to miss in the library of the lovers of this genre.