Blue Merrow, Progressive Rock band hailing from Pontevedra, Galicia (Spain), delivers a compelling statement with “Navagio,” their latest self-released album issued on May 1st, 2025. This 5-track journey encapsulates the essence of a project born in September 2019 with the intent to create and perform music beyond genre constraints. Deeply inspired by the late ’60s and early ’70s, Blue Merrow’s sound is primarily shaped by the interplay between two leading voices: organ and guitar — the real narrative pillars of their sonic identity. “Navagio” perfectly embodies this vision, merging studio and live recordings into a coherent and immersive listening experience. The band blends the warm textures of vintage Prog with a contemporary edge, offering an album that speaks to both the purist and the Progressive-minded listener. “Inside The Plot” opens the record with granite-like determination, immediately showcasing the band’s musical attitude. A Rock-solid rhythm section underpins intricate guitar riffs, over which a sumptuous organ unfolds its expressive power. The vocals are dynamic and articulate, delivering each line with precision and conviction. A standout piece of Heavy Prog, the track evokes the atmosphere of classic bands without ever sounding derivative, thanks to its modern touch and refined instrumental dialogues between guitar and keyboards. “Once in a Blue Moon” channels the grandeur of early ’70s keyboard-driven compositions, conjuring that timeless magic only Progressive Rock can deliver. A classical sensibility weaves through the arrangements, elevating the piece into something deeply evocative — the organ, in particular, seems to communicate directly with the listener. Emphasizing the instrumental dimension of the band’s identity, this track is a highlight of compositional depth and emotional resonance. “Three Ways To Say Goodbye (live),” the first of three live tracks that close the album, is also its longest, clocking in at over 9 minutes. It begins with a dark, majestic organ motif and continues to explore the band’s fascination with retro soundscapes through a modern lens. Rich in Baroque references, the composition unfolds into complex textures and intricate developments, uniting Symphonic influences with Rock energy. The fact that this was recorded live adds an extra layer of intensity and authenticity. The arrival of the vocals marks a turning point, lifting the piece to new emotional heights. “Images” stands out as the most enveloping moment on the record. Built around dreamy piano and guitar interplays, the track begins with a gentler tone, gradually ascending in emotional and dynamic intensity. The evocative vocals lead into a superb instrumental climax where the guitar steps into the spotlight. Its 6:38 duration passes fluidly, offering a refined display of the band’s musical sensitivity and technical control. The album closes with “Burn,” the final live track. It opens with delicate guitar and piano textures, incorporating subtle Folk Prog elements before revealing itself as a reimagined version of a rock classic. This cover stands out not for mimicking the original, but for how personally and creatively Blue Merrow has reinterpreted it, showcasing a different and intriguing side of the band. “Navagio” confirms all the promise previously demonstrated by Blue Merrow, solidifying their stylistic direction towards a richly textured form of Heavy Prog. Their compositions are well-structured, the rhythm section is both solid and nuanced, and the guitar and keyboard solos are tastefully executed. Vocals integrate seamlessly into the instrumental fabric, completing the band’s sonic architecture. This is an album highly recommended for fans of early ’70s-inspired Heavy Prog, reinvented here with personality, skill, and vision.
Tracklist
01. Inside The Plot (06:43)
02. Once in a Blue Moon (04:18)
03. Three Ways To Say Goodbye (live) (09:41)
04. Images (live) (06:38)
05. Burn (live) 06:48
Lineup
Ángel Olañeta Rosales / Guitars & Choirs
Ángel Vejo Gamero / Keyboard
Damián Garrido Portela / Vocals & Percussion
Diego Hernán Ruiz / Bass & Acoustic Guitar
Alberto Cid Casalderrey / Drums