Engine-V

If one combines the words “Greece”, “Stoner Rock” and “the 1990s”, the most likely result would be NIGHTSTALKER. However, Argy and Co. were not completely on their own back in those days, which is testified by the co-existence of another Athenian act: ENGINE (or ENGINE-V as they became known as around the turn of the millennium).

The band was formed as a trio in 1998, including Greek Rock scene veterans George Laitmer (vocals, guitars) and Panos Tomaras (bass) – both ex-members of the rather underrated Alternative Rock band HONEYDIVE – along with Costas Petrou (drums – later in DEUS EX MACHINA). In the following year, ENGINE released their debut, a five-track EP entitled “The Budgie EP” (1999) which was self-distributed by the band. Stylewise, it’s hard not to draw comparisons to their previously mentioned countrymen in NIGHTSTALKER (barring the Lemmy-esque vocals). On the other hand, while NIGHTSTALKER has always emanated a 1970s vibe, ENGINE’s music remains fairly rooted in the 1990s. Not so surprising perhaps, given the member’s musical pedigree.

Following the EP’s release and the subsequent name change into ENGINE-V, the band commenced a series of live appearances – sharing the stage with international acts such as DOZER, FU MANCHU, SPIRITUAL BEGGARS, etc. Sometime in late-2002, in co-operation with the well-known producer/engineer Jim Spliff, the band began working on their debut full-length album. It seems like the album was completed as early as 2003, yet “Broken World” didn’t see a release until 2005 – on NIGHTSTALKER’s Mad Prophet Records, fittingly enough. The release coincided with the addition of second guitarist Costas Papaspyrou (not present on the album though). “Broken World” pretty much picks up where “The Budgie EP” left off, yet sees the band expand upon their songwriting repertoire, resulting in a more dynamic and varied musical product.

At present, we have no info on any subsequent releases from the ENGINE-V camp, so we can probably assume that the band split up somewhere along the road. Either way, anyone with an interest in Greek Stoner Rock should probably give these guys a listen. And don’t forget to check out HONEYDIVE as well when you’re at it!

Compilation appearances:
* In the Junkyard – Volume Two [CD, Comp: Spinalonga, 2005]