DESCRIPTION:
Almendra - Color Humano [Almendra] 1969

Formed 1967, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Disbanded 1970 //
Members: Luis Alberto Spinetta (guitar, vocals), Edelmiro Molinari (guitar, vocals), Emilio Del Güercio (bass, vocals, flute), Rodolfo García (drums, vocals)

Argentinean rock band Almendra was formed in 1967 by ex-los Larkins and ex-Sbirros. In September of 1968, the band released a single, including its songs "Tema de Pototo" and "El Mundo Entre las Manos." After issuing two more singles, the group started touring Argentina, recording a self-titled album in 1969 and a second one in 1970. By the time "Muchacha (Ojos De Papel)" became Almendra's major achievement, members in the band began showing up their differences, creating an uncomfortable working community. The group broke up soon after participating in the Buenos Aires Rock Festival. In 1979, Almendra was reunited to perform at Buenos Aires' Obras Sanitarias, recording a live album and releasing El Valle Interior in 1980. [by Drago Bonacich]

Almendra self-titled debut is not only one of the first Argentinean rock albums, but one of its best. Recorded in 1969, and released at the beginning of 1970, it showcases the band's personal approach to pop and rock, avoiding common places and creating a world of its own. The album opens with "Muchacha (Ojos de Papel) ," a love song that became an instant classic. But the album is great from the beginning till the end. A masterpiece. [by Iván Adaime]