“Imán, Califato Independiente” (CBS, 1978)
The self-titled “Imán, Califato Independiente” is one of the finest progressive rock albums made in Spain. Imán, Califato Independiente was a symphonic progressive rock act with a deep Andalusian influence. The band became legendary throughout Spain, especially in the southern region of Andalusia. Imán mixed progressive rock and fusion with flamenco and Moorish influences, creating one of the most original sounds within progressive rock.
The Imán, Califato Independiente album featured only 4 tracks, including the 20-minute masterpiece tiled ‘Tarantos del califato independiente’ that occupied the entire Side A of the original LP. It was produced by two highly influential artists, Teddy Bautista (a member of Canarios who released the symphonic rock masterwork Ciclos) and Andalusian rock visionary and producer Ricardo Pachón.
Imán, Califato Independiente was a supergroup that met in Madrid and brought together experienced musicians from the Spanish rock and progressive music scenes, including bassist Iñaki Egaña, who had performed with several well-known rock bands such as Los Buenos, Alacrán and Barrabás; guitarist Manuel Rodríguez, from Seville, who was a former member of pioneering Andalusian rock band Goma; and drummer Kiko Guerrero from Jerez, a former member of Los Solos. They were later joined by keyboardist Marcos Mantero who sadly passed away yesterday. Marcos had performed with guitarist and sitarist Gualberto on his iconic album titled Vericuetos.
The group decided to live communally and relocated to a country house called Camino del Águila, located near Puerto de Santa María (Cádiz). There, they experimented with rock and Andalusian music and became part of what was known in Spain at the time as rock con raices, a movement that brought together rock (most of the time in the form of progressive rock) and traditional music from various parts of Spain. Iman specialized in the music from southern Spain. Other bands that played Andalusian rock included Triana, Cai, Alameda, Guadalquivir, Mezquita, Medina Azahara, Mantra, and Miguel Rios’ Al-Andalus.
The entire album is truly excellent. CBS released two of the tracks on Side B, Canción de la oruga and Darshan, as singles. These two compositions had commercial success and Darshan became the band’s memorable anthem during its live concerts.
“Imán, Califato Independiente” was reissued on CD although it’s hard to find. Amazon Spain has a collection of the band’s two albums: Iman califato independiente (1978-1980).