Medina Azahara are a Spanish prog band who reportedly
released several albums, starting from around 1979 and as late as
1991. I've seen this band listed as an incredible example of Spanish
prog but the three albums I have tend not to bear this out. "La
Esquina del Viento" is mostly 3-4 minute songs (the longest is 5:18)
that isn't too progressive but rock with a few symphonic progressive
tendencies. There is a strong vocal (Spanish of course) presence,
lots of heavy guitar and occasionally some nice keyboard work. The
rhythm section of bass and drums generally play simple and
straightforward. All the songs follow the same general verse/chorus
format. Andalucia is similar in that it has several
commercial songs and a one or two tunes with vauge progressive
tendencies. "Paseando por la Mezquita" is a better album with
several fluid guitar solos alternating with liquid synth passages. They
still suffer from a basic rhythm section, though. If you find any of their
LPs at a bargain (doubtful), it might be worth picking them up. If they
want a fortune (that you're willing to spend as a collector) you may
want to audition them before you lay out the cash. (?)
I heard a couple of early tracks, enjoyable flamenco-prog
with distorted guitar. Similar to Cai, but
harder-rocking. Mike Ohman
I basically agree the above, simply to add that in a TV interview, then
in 1980 (after the release of "Paseando por la Mezquita") to the
guitarist (that he is not the current one) they asked him on his guitar
influences and he stated that his favorite guitarist was, without
a doubt, Steve Howe! Good Point...
José Manuel Iñesta
Medina Azahara put togehter the andalusian atmospheres and the hard
rock. They were at a good level with their early records and they even
played live at London. Between '82 and '86 noone knew about them,
but in 1986 reappeared with "Caravana Española". And in
1990, thanks to a live record they are in the groove again.
Then a series of new record with a strong suppor from their label
were released including covers of spanish songs of the 60s.
Ein 1995 released "Árabe", a double set showing that the
band's creative power was very low then. In addition they released
a mini-Lp of christmas songs! (?)
Other webs of Medina Azahara:
LINK
In addition to their official discography a compilation of their records for
CBS (1979-1982) has been released. 
Review of the record "Medina Azahara" (in spanish)
Review of the record "En Al-Hakim"
Review of the record "En Vivo"
The Spanish Progressive Rock Encyclopedia![[sorry]](/img/ar12.jpg)
dlsi.ua.es
and the entry will be updated. Thanks for your collaboration!
