Carmen

The Profile

Carmen are a British-American progressive rock band led by guitarist-singer David Clark Allen, famed for fusing flamenco elements with 70s prog. Their albums Fandangos in Space (1973) and Dancing on a Cold Wind (1974) were produced by Tony Visconti; bassist John Glascock later joined Jethro Tull. The band appeared on The Midnight Special with support from David Bowie.

Their music blends flamenco guitar, castanets, and zapateado with complex prog structures, often alternating English and Spanish lyrics. Tony Visconti produced their early 70s work; David Bowie championed them; John Glascock went on to Jethro Tull.

Carmen’s 1973 debut Fandangos in Space earns praise for a disciplined fusion of progressive rock and flamenco, from castanets and zapateado to English–Spanish lyrics. The review highlights Tony Visconti’s production, David Bowie’s support, and John Glascock’s future in Jethro Tull. Standout tracks include Bulerias, Bullfight, and Por Tarantos. The verdict: an original 70s gem worth rediscovering.