Gouls

Lesser-known these days, but very promising 1980s Heavy Metal band from Thessaloniki, who unfortunately broke up before fully realizing their potential. Members included Yiannis and Giorgos Goulgoudinas (guitars and drums, respectively), Manolis Pilidis (guitars) and Thymios Alexopoulos (bass), while vocals were handled by session singers Pavlos Olzierski and, most notably, DECEPTOR’s Yiannis Koutselinis (BIOMECHANICAL, DECEPTOR, FATAL ATTRACTION, etc.)

The only known physical release of GOULS is a two-track demo tape, allegedly recorded at Rock Sound Studio (Thessaloniki). Interestingly, the two compositions differ quite notably in style. “Lying Mirrors” – recorded in 1987 and sung by Pavlos Olzierski – is a tuneful Melodic/Pop Metal track, mostly reminiscent of mid-1980s VAN HALEN. The second track on the other hand – recorded in 1988 and suitably fronted by Yiannis Koutselinis – is the true highlight, bringing in some proper heaviness and refined songwriting in the vein of Tate-fronted 1980s QUEENSRŸCHE.

However, perhaps as a result of not finding a permanent position vocalist, GOULS disbanded after the recording of the aforementioned demo. In addition to the two tracks featured on “Demo 1988”, one of the band members have uploaded a live uptake of a song called “Two Victims” on Youtube, recorded at Ellispontos Theatre (Thessaloniki) and featuring Yiannis K. on vocals – proving once again that the band had a lot to offer.

Compilation appearances: