Red Tide (band)
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1992 |
| Defunct | 2002 |
| Headquarters | Avon, Connecticut , United States |
| Products | Music albums, demos |
Red Tide was a thrash metal group originating from Avon, Connecticut, formed in 1992 by guitarist and vocalist Jeff Wu, bassist Jeff Bennett, and drummer Justin Foley. In their early phase, the band produced three hardcore/thrash metal demos and notably secured first place at the Simsbury High School Battle of the Bands, becoming the pioneering metal act to present original songs at that event.
By 1995, Red Tide began incorporating jazz fusion elements into their sound, which led to bassist Jeff Bennett's exit and the recruitment of Andy Dickins. This ensemble created the demo titled "Expressions," reflecting their stylistic transition. The addition of guitarist Ian Kauffman in 1996 expanded the band to a quartet. That year, they recorded the "Hybrid" demo, further integrating jazz fusion with intense metal influences.
Their debut full-length album, Themes of the Cosmic Consciousness (1997), was independently funded and attracted attention through online platforms. In 1998, Andy Dickins departed to explore other pursuits. The band's last album, Type II (2001), featured Matt "Blue" Ouellette on bass. Red Tide ultimately dissolved in 2002.
Final lineup
- Jeff Wu – Guitar/Vocals (1992–2002)
- Justin Foley – Drums (1992–2002)
- Ian Kauffman – Guitar (1996–2002)
- Matt "Blue" Ouellette – Bass (1998–2002)
- Former members
- Jeff Bennett – Bass (1992–1995)
- Andy Dickins – Bass (1995–1998)
- Andre Otero – Guitar (Studio session, 1995)
- Bryan – Guitar (Session musician, 1995–1996)
Discography
- 1993: Peculiar Institution Demo
- 1994: The Ideal Creation Demo
- 1994: Steps to the End Demo
- 1995: Expressions Demo
- 1996: Hybrid Demo
- 1997: Themes of the Cosmic Consciousness
- 2001: Type II