Tarantula

Release Overview

Tarántula 2, released in 1978 under Chapa Discos, is the second and final studio album by the Valencian progressive hard-rock band Tarántula. This release follows their debut and showcases a significant shift in musical direction. The album was produced by Vicente "Mariskal" Romero, a key figure in Spanish rock, at Estudios Audiofilm in Madrid.

Lineup Changes

The band underwent a dramatic restructuring prior to this release, with Vicente Guillot remaining as the sole founding member. He plays keyboards, including the Hammond organ, Mellotron, and Moog synthesizer. The introduction of dual lead vocalists, Ana María González and Enrique Alfonso, marked a notable evolution. González is recognized as one of the first female hard-rock vocalists in Spain, contributing a unique dynamic to the band's sound.

Musical Direction

Tarántula 2 departs from the Italian symphonic prog influences of their previous work, embracing a heavier, more aggressive progressive hard-rock style. The album features powerful guitar riffs reminiscent of bands like Uriah Heep and Deep Purple, combined with rich textures from the Hammond organ and Mellotron. Additionally, flamenco and Spanish folk influences are woven throughout the tracks, adding depth to the overall sound.

Track Highlights

The album contains eight tracks, each offering a unique listening experience. Tracks such as "Blancanieves" and "Nacido Para El Trabajo" reflect the band's newfound heaviness. The Catalan-language piece "Avui Com Ahir" and the eight-minute epic "La Tarántula De Granada" showcase their progressive tendencies. The seven-minute suite "Canta Canario, Canta" stands out with its intricate arrangements, while "Extasis" and the closing track "Esto Es El Fin" deliver a powerful conclusion to the album.

Recording Details

Tarántula 2 was recorded in 1978 at Estudios Audiofilm in Madrid, under the engineering expertise of Luis Calleja. This technical foundation played a crucial role in bringing the band's ambitious sound to life. The album was released on vinyl, preserving the analog essence of the era, and is cataloged as HS-35008.