July 21, 1999 16:09

RED ARE DEAD

Punk rockers turned string-laden balladists farewell gig at [b]Reading/Leeds 99[/b]...

3 Colours Red, have split up claiming with stunning originality 'musical differences'.

Their last two shows will be at Reading/Leeds 99.

The statement on the Creation website[/url] reads:

"After 4 years and 2 albums we have decided, with regret, to part company. Whilst we realise that 'musical differences' is the oldest cliche in the book in this case it is true. For some time now we have been pulling in different directions musically and rather than make an album that we don't all believe in we have come to the conclusion that it is best to call it a day. Our forthcoming shows at The Reading/Leeds festival on the 28th and 29th August will still take place but they will, however, be our farewell performances. We would like to thank all the people who have supported us over the years especially our fans."

Pete Vuckovic, Chris McCormack, Keith Baxter, Ben Harding - 3 Colours Red

The band initially started off as a pop-punk band but their recent singles had seen their original direction jetsoned in favour of the ubiquitous string-heavy ballad.