Curse

CURSE (aka THE CURSE) was a Larissa-based group formed in 1992. One interesting thing about their music is that it doesn’t fall into any pre-specified category, but instead combines elements of Heavy-, Epic-, Doom- and Euro-Thrash Metal.

In their earliest incarnation, CURSE functioned as a trio with George Vlahavas (guitars, bass, vocals - SPITBACK), Vaggelis Papas (vocals) and Nikos Pliakas (drums). This was the lineup that recorded the band’s self-titled debut demo “The Curse” (1993) at Graffiti Studio in their hometown Larissa. This two-tracker is a treat for fans of uniquely-done underground Metal, offering an amalgam of Techno-Thrash riffing, epic choruses and songs that develop like mini horror-stories. It’s not easy to point out any obvious references. The hoarse vocals (courtsey of George V. while Vaggelis handled the melodic parts) and occasional use of doom-laden guitars brings to mind their fellow countrymen in ASFYX, while other parts sound inspired by mid-period MANILLA ROAD.

At the time of their second demo, CURSE had expanded into a quartet with Albertos Oikonomou (BLACK FATE) taking over the bass and George Tsavdaridis (CRASH DRIVEN, MORTAL’S DREAM, OBLIVION) replacing Nikos P. on drums. Holding four new songs + a rerecording and remix of “Castle of Doom” (from their debut), “Sunrise Belief” (1994) saw the band expand on their previously established formula with more intricate song structures and technical performances.

Although “Sunrise Belief” would prove to be the last public release by CURSE, the band stayed active for several years more (until 2000). During this time – with Vasilis Lougos joining on drums at some point – they made some private recordings as well as live performances, including an opening gig for ROTTING CHRIST in 1999 at Soulatso club (Larissa). After the band’s demise, many of the band members has stayed active with other musical projects, such as George Vlahavas in SPITBACK.

Compilation appearances:
* Underground Tapes Vol. 1 [Cass, Comp: Underground Tapes, 1995]