Axis

AXIS was a Progressive Rock band inaugurated in 1970 by a group of Greek ex-patriots during their residence in the French capital. While obviously not a “pure” Heavy Metal act, AXIS deserve inclusion in this archive based on the heavy and powerful music of their third, self-titled LP issued in 1973, that in many ways relates to or even prefigures the metallic sounds and compositional techniques of Metal music yet to come.

The band was formed by the bassist Dimitris Katakouzinos and keyboardist Demis Visvikis, who had previously played in Demis Roussous’ backing band. Originally, AXIS played Pop-oriented Progressive/Psychedelic/Heavy Rock in the vein of their countrymen APHRODITE’S CHILD and released two albums and several singles in this style. But by the time of their third album and with a different lineup they had morphed into a highly versatile, experimental and often gratifyingly heavy-sounding Progressive/Heavy/Jazz Rock outfit that bore many similarities to KING CRIMSON around the time of “Larks’ Tongues in Aspic” (also released in 1973). “Axis” would prove to be their magnus opus, but also their final release as the band disbanded in 1974. This album is strongly recommended to those who enjoy a wider spectrum of heavy music and also wish to delve deeper into the pre-history of Greek Heavy Metal.

Compilation appearances:
* Krautrock & Progressive “The Definitive Era” [2LP, Comp, Limited: Music Brokers, 2019]