The Alan Parsons Project's tenth studio album, Gaudi, is a masterful tribute to the life and work of renowned Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí. Released in 1987, this symphonic rock masterpiece is a testament to the band's ability to craft intricate, progressive soundscapes that transport listeners to another era.
The album's opening track, 'La Sagrada Familia', sets the tone for a journey through the grand conceptions of Gaudí's iconic architecture, with the Sagrada Família cathedral being a prominent inspiration. With its leaner, edgier sound, Gaudi showcases the band's growth and experimentation, as evident in tracks like 'Standing on Higher Ground' and the exquisitely orchestrated instrumental 'Paseo de Gracia'.
Featuring a range of talented musicians, including Miles, Woolfson, Zakatek, and Rainbow, Gaudi is a culmination of The Alan Parsons Project's signature style and their ability to push the boundaries of progressive rock. Although it marked the end of their contractual obligations with Arista Records, Gaudi remains a standout album in the band's discography, with its unique blend of classic rock and symphonic elements.
With a duration of 1 hour and 4 minutes, Gaudi is a carefully crafted album that showcases The Alan Parsons Project's musical prowess. The band's core membership, consisting of producer and audio engineer Alan Parsons, brings a level of sophistication and depth to the album, making it a must-listen for fans of progressive rock and classic rock. Released on 1 January 1987, under the Arista/Legacy label, Gaudi is an album that continues to inspire and captivate audiences with its enduring sound and timeless themes.