Like its name, New York City-based metal band Phoenix Reign rose out of the ashes - but in this case, the ashes of a once strong metal scene. Originally simply called Phoenix, it came into existence in Greece in the summer of 1998 with founding members Billy Chrissochos (guitars) and Chris Pollatos (bass). They joined forces with Kostas Psarros (guitars) and Wayne Noon (drums). Soon they recorded their first demo with original singer Eugene Siouzos. Unfortunately the demo was never passed around, and only a  few people have heard it. They band spent time playing local clubs, and gaining an underground reputation. In 2002 Theresa Gaffney took over the vocals, and the band started exploring new live territories. Still known as Phoenix the band began working on their first recordings with Theresa. One song from the previous demo was re-recorded, but the rest was new material. This time the demo was sent out to numerous webzines, receiving mixed reviews. In 2005 the band noticed all the other bands named Phoenix, and decided to change their name by adding Reign to it. With the new name the band recorded some new songs, and split them up into two different demos. Some songs still haven't been released. Again the demos were passed out and received mixed reviews. But this time the reviews were a little more positive, and soon the band was ready to record a full length album. So in early 2006 the band started recording 'Destination Unknown'. It would take them about a year to complete their first independently released CD. It brings to life several songs from the band’s demos, like fan favorites ‘Another Night Alone’ and ‘Open Your Eyes’ (formerly known as "Power"), as well as new material, including the epic “Constantinople 1453 (On the Eve of the Fall).” This track epitomizes what Phoenix Reign is capable of as musicians, by blending traditional Mediterranean instruments with metal, creating an otherworldly sonic atmosphere. The album’s artwork is also notable, as it features the work of Iannis Nikou, the acclaimed Greek artist whose style is reflective of Delacroix and even Boris Vallejo. In 2008 they made their first official video for the song "Masquerade Angel",  which features clips from another Phoenix Reign related project, called 'Atilla Attacks'.

DESTINATION UNKNOWN (2007) INDEPENDENT

I discovered Phoenix Reign when their drummer joined the Heart Of Metal discussion board. Always on the lookout for some great traditional metal, the cover of this album alone was enough to peak my interest in the band. Phoenix Reign plays metal that is more in the lines of what is happening in Europe, rather what you might expect from a band from New York. I guess that the Greek blood in the band, along with their collective interest for bands like Helloween, Stratovarius, Iron Maiden etc. is shining through. The music has an epic feel to it as well. And especially the last track that adds some Mediterranean instruments, like tzoura and kanonaki, definitely puts a medieval mark on the music. But this is mainly a mix of European power metal and traditional heavy metal. One cannot overlook the fact that Phoenix Reign sets themselves apart from the masses in having a female singer though. Theresa brings something unique to the band for sure. 'Destination Unknown' is their debut album. And despite the professional looking booklet, this is in many ways a demo. The production quality certainly is. Every instrument is clearly heard, but the vocals should have been mixed a little lower, and the guitars should be more upfront. And the overall sound could have been a lot beefier. But with a better budget, and with more studio experience, I'm sure this will all be corrected on their next album. Because the music is good, and they have found a sound that is their own in a style of music that was quickly becoming stale and repetitive. I look forward to her more from Phoenix Reign.

Killer tracks: Masquerade Angel, Another Night Alone, Open your Eyes, Destination Unknown, Constantinople 1453 (On The Eve Of The Fall)