La Folia De La Spagna (1982)

"This is essentially an original composition, a series of variations on an ancient Spanish dance melody. Paniagua's reactions to this ancient motif range wildly from Renaissance and Baroque-style treatments to ultramodern variations using jazz, electronics and sound effects. It is wildly imaginative and may even appeal to some devotees of the fringe varieties of rock." (Washington Post) "This is intended to illustrate the 'folly' or madness that has been said to tinge Spanish culture. Mad it is, with a vengeance. Among the original instruments sounding off here are automobiles, pistols and birds." (The Absolute Sound) "A folia is apparently some sort of mad dance, a perfect description of this recording. On the surface, it's a sprightly work for a small period-instrument group. Initially, all very refined and courtly - but punctuated throughout in a fashion that honors the tradition of P.D.Q. Bach and Spike Jones. The performance is excellent - but then there's nothing with which to compare it." (Stereophile)