Now we will see the plurality of flamenco and their dances, songs and music are an identifying art form that identifies the whole autonomous community, each province has been able to contribute its own flavour and style to the exciting world of flamenco, with its own original palos (forms).
- Seville: Soleá
The Soleá, originally from Seville, is one of the most important flamenco palos, known for its deep expressiveness and 12-beat rhythm. It is characterised by a solemn and melancholic rhythm, often associated with the feeling of loneliness. The guitar in the Soleá accompanies with deep and resonant chords, while the singing expresses intense and heartbreaking emotions.
- Cadiz: Alegrías
The Alegrías, from Cádiz, are one of the most festive and joyful palos (forms) of flamenco. Its rhythm is lively and its 12-beat rhythm is similar to that of the Soleá, but with a much more positive energy. This palo is known for its liveliness and lyrics that celebrate life and happiness. The guitar in Alegrías is dynamic and accompanies the dance with vibrant and ornate rhythms.
- Granada: Fandangos de Granada
The Fandangos de Granada, typical in the province, are a variant of the Andalusian fandango. They are characterised by a lively rhythm and a 3/4 or 6/8 time signature. This palo combines Arabic and gypsy influences, and is known for its lyrical melody and the use of the guitar to accompany the singing with a rhythmic and melodic touch at the same time.
- Malaga: Verdiales
The Verdiales are a form of fandango that originated in the province of Malaga, specifically in the region of Montes de Malaga. This palo is characterised by its fast and lively rhythm, accompanied by traditional instruments such as the guitar, cymbals and violin. Verdiales are festive and are typically performed at celebrations and popular festivals.
- Córdoba: Soleá de Córdoba
The Soleá de Córdoba, a variant of the Soleá, reflects the local influence of this city. It shares many characteristics with the Soleá de Sevilla, but with a distinctive interpretation and style that reflects the idiosyncrasy of Córdoba. The guitar in the Soleá de Córdoba often has a softer, more melodic touch, while the singing can be equally deep and emotive.
- Huelva: Fandangos de Huelva
Fandangos de Huelva are one of the most recognised variants of fandango in Andalusia. They are characterised by their free structure and their rhythm, which can vary between 3/4 and 6/8 time signatures. This palo is known for its vitality and for being a reflection of the traditions and customs of Huelva. The guitar accompanies with a mixture of rhythmic strumming and ornamented melodies.
- Almería: Tarantos
Tarantos, originally from the province of Almería, are a variant of flamenco tangos, characterised by a slower rhythm and a 4-beat meter. This palo is known for its expressiveness and for the way in which the singing narrates stories of work and daily life in the mines of Almería. The guitar in the Tarantos accompanies with deep chords and a marked rhythm.
- Jaén: Tarantas
The Tarantas are a characteristic palo of Jaén, also related to the mines, similar to the Tarantos but with an even freer and more melodic rhythm. They are characterised by their deep and emotional singing, often dealing with themes of suffering and the harshness of life in the mines. The guitar in the Tarantas is fundamental, providing a melodic and rhythmic base that enhances the emotionality of the cante.
It is also important to highlight the trend that many contemporary artists have been joining for more than two decades, fusing flamenco with other musical genres such as jazz, rock and electronic music, bringing flamenco to new audiences. Figures such as Enrique Morente, Sara Baras, Israel Galván, and Rosalía or La Plazuela have reinterpreted and revitalised flamenco, keeping its essence alive while adapting it to modern tastes and sensibilities.
It is therefore not surprising that the deep historical roots and its ability to constantly evolve to the present day, mean that flamenco remains a symbol of Andalusian and Spanish cultural identity. Its journey from the courtyards of Andalusia to stages around the world is a testament to its powerful artistic and emotional expression, which continues to captivate generation after generation.