Alas (Argentine band)
| Company type | Musical group |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1974 |
| Founder | Gustavo Moretto, Carlos Riganti, Alex Zuker |
| Defunct | 1978 |
| Fate | Disbanded; reunited 2003–2005 |
| Headquarters | Argentina |
| Products | Music albums, singles |
Alas was a predominantly instrumental progressive rock ensemble from the mid-1970s within the Argentine rock scene, recognized as an influential contributor to Argentina's tango-rock genre alongside Rodolfo Mederos's Generación Cero.
History
Gustavo Moretto, after departing from Alma y Vida, founded Alas with drummer Carlos Riganti (formerly of Materia Gris) and Alex Zuker, forming the group's initial lineup. Their first live performance took place at the IFT Theater in 1975.
By the end of that year, they issued the single "Rincón, mi viejo rincón," featuring "Aire (surgente)" on its B-side.
Their debut album, released in 1976 and titled Alas, contained lengthy tracks segmented into smaller sections, such as "Buenos Aires sólo es piedra" and "La muerte contó el dinero." This record included a collaboration with bandoneón artist Daniel Binelli.
Following this release, Alex Zuker exited the band and was succeeded by Pedro Aznar, who participated in their sophomore album, Pinta Tu Aldea, scheduled for release in 1977. The opening track, "A Quiénes Sino," is often considered their standout piece, merging tango-rock with jazz influences. Nevertheless, the album's latter portion lacked uniformity.
The group dissolved in 1978. In 2003, the original trio reunited for performances in the United States, accompanied by Martín Moretto on guitar and Héctor del Curto on bandoneón. Later joined by Aznar and Binelli, they produced Mimame Bandoneón in 2005, which showcased a stronger emphasis on tango elements.
Members
- Gustavo Moretto: keyboards, wind instruments, vocals (1974–1978, 2003–2005)
- Alex Zuker: guitar, bass (1974–1977, 2003–2005)
- Carlos Riganti: drums, percussion (1974–1977, 2003–2005)
- Pedro Aznar: bass (1977–1978)
- Guests
- Daniel Binelli: bandoneon (1977, 2005)
- Néstor Marconi: bandoneon (1977)
- Cecilia Tanconi: flute (1977)
- Héctor Del Curto: bandoneón (2003–2005)
- Martín Moretto: guitar (2003–2005)
Discography
- Aire (surgente) / Rincón, mi viejo rincón (1975)
- Alas (1976)
- Pinta tu aldea (1977, released 1983)
- Mimame bandoneón (2005)