CONDEMNED (not to be confused with their countrymen in CONDEMNATION) was an atmospheric Death/Doom act from the city of Edessa in Central Macedonia. The band was formed in the early 1990s and remained active for about half a decade, releasing one demo and two promo tapes before calling it quits. The original lineup consisted of Yiannis “John” Liparnis (vocals, guitars), Christos “Chris” Marinos (bass), Petros Karefis (drums) and Steve Serafim (keyboards). Although we haven’t been able to confirm this, it would seem likely that at least some of the members were also involved in other similar-sounding bands that came out of Edessa at approximately the same time – such as LETHARGY, NATURAL FEAR and SANCTORUM.

CONDEMNED’s first offering was a demo called “Nothingness” (1993), recorded during ten hours at Studio “N” in Thessaloniki. Possibly taking inspiration from the early works of their countrymen in SEPTIC FLESH and NIGHTFALL as well as international Death/Doom acts PARADISE LOST, MY DYING BRIDE and ASPHYX, “Nothingness” features three lengthy compositions which straddles the line between atmospheric Doom and straight-ahead old school Euro-Death. The employment of synthesizers and occasional solemn/melancholic passages adds a lot to the character of the material as well as adding necessary dynamics.

By the time of their second release entitled “Promo 1994”, Yiannis L. had departed, leaving it up to former bassist Chris M. to handle the vocals. As on their debut, “Promo 1994” contained songs of relatively lengthy duration. However, the rawness and unpredictable approach of the debut had given way to a more consistent/conventional Death/Doom sound. A second promo tape was allegedly released in 1995 (yes, entitled “Promo 1995”…), but this recording has unfortunately eluded us so far.

Compilation appearances:
* Delictum Compilation #2 [Cass, Comp, Numbered: Self-released (Delictum Zine), 1993]
* Archangel Compilation Tape Vol 2. [Cass, Comp: Yeralti Promotion, 1994]
* Delictum Comp. – 3 [Cass, Comp, Numbered: Self-released (Delictum Zine), 1994]