The year 2001 has seen quite a few progressive gems from the 70’s reissued on CD, and this little classic from Spain’s N.H.U. is no exception. Recorded in 1978, this five piece specialized in symphonic rock featuring melodic Spanish vocals, weaving organ and other assorted keyboards, gymnastic guitar assaults, and a tight rhythm section.
Comparisons to early Genesis, especially in the keyboard playing, are instantly noticed. Classic instruments such as Hammond, Moog, and Fender Rhodes are utilized and given plenty of solo space as well as providing some nice atmospheric touches. The ten- minute track “Na Terra Do Verde Chan” is probably the most impressive. Mostly instrumental, the track does have some vocals but gives way to progressive rock bliss. Fans of lead bass guitar will find plenty to cheer about here, as there is much Chris Squire influenced four -string fretwork throughout the CD’s six tracks. Some of the instrumental tracks are very impressive, similar to what Finch was doing at the time, combining complex instrumentation with melodic passages for a formula that really works. While Spain might not have been considered one of the hotbeds of progressive rock in the last thirty years, this nifty reissue should prove that there was plenty of good music happening. Even more remarkable is that this album originally appeared on RCA Records when it first released. Ah, the 70’s…
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