Caravela Escarlate – III (Karisma Records, 2023)
Caravela Escarlate has blossomed into one of the finest progressive rock acts in the current international scene. The Brazilian band features the powerhouse keyboard work of virtuoso musician Ronaldo Rodrigues, one of the best keyboard players of his generation.
The band’s third album, “III,” will be available in late January. Even though the year has just started, this album is going straight to the top of potential best of 2023. Indeed, this is straight head symphonic progressive rock of the highest order.
Although Caravela Escarlate is inspired by the British and Italian pioneers (echoes of ELP, Camel, Canterbury bands, Le Orme, and Yes), their sound has a unique Brazilian flavor. Notably, vocals are in Portuguese and the band incorporates Brazilian elements as well.
The trio includes composer, lyricist, imaginative bassist and vocalist Jove David Paiva; keyboardist and composer Ronaldo Rodrigues who uses a diverse arsenal of cherished vintage keyboards, ranging from piano and electric organ to magnificent Mellotron passages and outstanding synth solos; and the equally talented drumming of Elcio Cáfaro.
“III” recalls historical cultures, issues and events in various contexts: the Roman Empire, Medieval Times, Pre-Columbian Civilizations, and the Age of Discovery.
The cover artwork is a painting by the British artist J.M.W. Turner, portraying the eruption of Vesuvius that destroyed Pompeii in AD 79.
Although I was not aware of this band until seeing and reading your article tonight, I am MORE than looking forward to hearing the group’s new album in its entirety, as well as their previous two albums just as soon as I am able to get my hands on them. The excerpt you so graciously have shared with your readers is much appreciated, as it absolutely piqued my fervent interest in the group’s music. The members’ acknowledgement that they have been influenced by the likes of Yes, Le Orme, Camel, Caravan and indeed the undisputed greatness of the whole of the amazing Canterbury scene, is a testament to the band’s seriousness of purpose. Many thanks to all of you at Progressive Rock Central for your excellent scholarship and music journalism, and perhaps most importantly for your dedication to bringing news to us diehard aficionados of progressive rock that we are unlikely to discover elsewhere!