Arkhon

Formed in Nicosia (Cyprus) during Winter 2003, ARKHON was a promising underground act in the Black/Death continuum. The band was originally founded by guitarists George “Soulreaper” Solomou (A MOTIVE INHUMANE) and Chris “Violator” Ioannou (A MOTIVE INHUMANE, HELMINTHIUM), who were soon joined by third guitarist Adonis “Demon” Yianakas (A MOTIVE INHUMANE) – after which Soulreaper decided drop the guitar in favor of vocals/bass duties – while the drums were occupied by Danny “Bloodfreak” Krioo (BLUDGEOND). Some of the main influences stated at the time were ROTTING CHRIST, DARK TRANQUILLITY, HYPOCRISY, DEATH and KREATOR.

ARKHON released two demo CDrs in rather quick succession: “Tainted Dogma” (2004) followed by “I Am the Skull” (2005). In addition to featuring pretty cool artwork, ARKHON presents an intriguing, if somewhat messy, blend of Hellenic Black Metal and Swedish Death Metal (the melodic brand). There is a distinct development towards the latter influence, as well as more convoluted and technical song structuring, on “I Am the Skull”, although the first demo “Tainted Dogma” struck this writer as the more artistically successful of the two.

Allegedly, in addition to performing several live shows ARKHON had at least four more tracks ready at their disposal, but their crative progress and ability to perform concerts was severly hampered as the members faced the obligatory 25 months of service in the Cypriot military. It seems like they managed to hold things together for a while, but eventually they must have broken up as no further material was released. Too bad, because had this band sticked together for a few more years, they might’ve developed into something truly great.

Compilation appearances: