EL CONGRESO

Congreso are among the most long-lived Chilean bands ever with more than 40 years of career on their backs.By mid-60's brothers Francisco,Patricio and Sergio Gonzalez along with bassist Fernando Hurtado played together in several school bands,covering foreign English tracks.In 1969 they were joined by singer Fernando Sazo from the beat group Los Sicodelicos and Congreso was born.Based in the city of Quilpue,they started to blend traditional Chilean tunes with rock music,as presented on their debut ''El congreso'' from 1971.

With flutist Hugo Pirovich on board,Congreso play harmonic mellow Psych/Folk Rock deeped in the Chilean roots.The album is mostly acoustic with a few electric blows but with the constant presence of the rhythm section.The flute of Pirovich offers delicate traditional tunes and is mixed greatly with the rest of the band.Vocals are definitely a highlight of the album,very melodic,warm and sensitive.''El congreso'' contains mainly short tracks,all of them are highly melodic and enjoyable,but to say the truth I do not see any progressive leanings.Even the long instrumental ''A.A.R.'' continues in the same style,Psychedelic Rock with Folk influences and a mood for improvisation overall.

I would advise anyone into demanding and rich musicianship to rather skip this album,as it sounds very pastoral and even dated.On the other hand ''El congreso'' will be a great addition for anyone looking for soft rock musicianship blended with with highly melodic content and nice vocal harmonies,no matter he is a fan of Folk Music or not.Recommended.