Castrovalva (band)

Castrovalva was a progressive rock band formed in the early 1990s by keyboardist Clive Nolan and guitarist Karl Groom. They are perhaps best known for being a predecessor to the more successful and enduring progressive rock group, Arena, which Nolan and Groom would later found.

Castrovalva released one self-titled album in 1993. The music featured a blend of neo-prog and symphonic rock elements, characterized by Nolan's intricate keyboard arrangements and Groom's melodic guitar work. The album received generally positive reviews within the progressive rock community, though distribution was limited.

The band dissolved shortly after the album's release, with Nolan and Groom shifting their focus to Arena. While Castrovalva was relatively short-lived, its music is considered a significant early stage in the development of Nolan and Groom's songwriting partnership and progressive rock sound. The album remains available through various online music retailers and is considered a worthwhile listen for fans of Arena and neo-progressive rock in general.