TRISTES NOTICIAS DEL IMPERIO

Argentinian trio REDD was formed in 1977, and "Tristes Noticias del Imperio" was to be the first of two albums this band issued before disbanding. While they were a highly talented act, a disease affecting the hearing of drummer and keyboardist Escalante diagnosed a few weeks after the completion of this debut effort caused an abrupt stop to the further development of this band, and while a new formation recorded a second album this constellation fell apart, and it wasn't until 1996 this production saw a belated release. This reissue from 2009 of their initial album comes courtesy of Argentinian label Viajero Inmovil Records, and features 5 bonus tracks. It was released in the memory of Juan Escalante, who passed away due to cancer in 2005.

"Tristes Noticias del Imperio" is a good quality effort through and through, a production that has stood the test of time very well indeed. And while perhaps not exploring the most advanced fiels of the progressive rock universe it is an effort that merits a listen by those who have a general fondness for art rock, with followers of artists like Pink Floyd and King Crimson as a likely key audience. Existing fans should find most of the bonus material to be worthwhile as well, as this is one of those rare instances where the additional material is just about as interesting as the rest of the release.