Mythical Metal Melodies: The Greek Rock Band That Needs To Be On Repeat

Christiana Hatzimihali on stage with Elysion

(Photo credit: Yiannis Dolas/Rock Pages Greece)

By Seb Gorlov

If there’s one metal band everyone should know about, it’s Elysion.

The Greek band were formed in Athens and currently comprise of effervescent lead vocalist Christiana Hatzimihali, the energetic drummer Jannis Konst and the unshakeable guitarist trio of Andreas Roufagalas, Nikos Despotopoulos and Giannis Giannikos (the latter of whom is known as “Johnny Zero”).

Hatzimihali joined the band in 2008 two years after its initial formation and has been a driving force behind their inevitable rise ever since. With her powerful vocals and a lyrical approach that evokes emotion, yet makes you feel as if you’re back in time, shrouded by traditional Greek mythology, the decision to add her to the lineup – after the departure of original vocalist Maxi Nil – was one that has paid dividends.

As the band turn twenty this year, here’s a look at their albums so far and what makes them a strong recommendation for your next playlist.

 

Silent Scream (December 18, 2009)

Not only was Silent Scream the breakthrough album for Elysion, but it also introduced the world to Hatzimihali’s stellar singing ability, most notably in the second track “Killing My Dreams”, a powerful ballad fuelled by a captivating synth, which can be heard from the very beginning, remaining consistent in the background. The lyricism aligns perfectly with the album’s inner themes of love and loss.

“My heart cries out for the touch I will never have/ Before my eyes, you’ve burnt everything I loved” (“Killing My Dreams”, Silent Scream, Elysion).

That song is a fan favourite, so popular it was re-released in 2012, as part of a special album with varying versions of some tunes from Silent Scream, such as acoustic reworks. This is a move that speaks volumes about the group’s multifaceted approach to music and their desire to be a dominant leader in the metal industry,

The album is a great introduction to the band, tracks layering Hatzimihali’s crystalline vocals with the otherworldly instrumental elements provided by the rest of the band, including rhythmic drum beats and shredding guitar riffs.

 

Killing My Dreams (November 16, 2012)

The aforementioned album with special editions of songs, Killing My Dreams treats fans to a myriad of different songs in varying styles. From the hauntingly beautiful acoustic version of “Killing My Dreams” , to a striking live version of Silent Scream’s opening track “Dreamer” that sonically draws comparisons between Hatzimihali and Evanescence lead singer Amy Lee, the album is a masterpiece.

The live version of “Dreamer” feels like the perfect tribute to the group’s loyal and supportive listeners, everything you want from a single recorded live during a show – consistently strong instruments, enrapturing vocals and crowd participation in the form of rhythmic clapping before the beginning of the tune..

The live version of “Killing My Dreams” puts the song in a whole new light, the shredding of the guitars sounding much more clean and prominent as Hatzimihali provides guttural screams in between chorus and verse.

The album’s live versions were taken from various shows across Greece that the band played in 2012,  such as at Thessaloniki’s Block33. The choice to perform at intimate concert venues like this can further enhance atmospheres, perfect for a band such as Elysion.

 

Someplace Better (January 24, 2014)

Someplace Better is a masterpiece from beginning to end. The album is filled with powerful ballads such as fan favourite “Fairytale” and the opening song “Made of Lies”. The latter of these songs has the ability to hook the listener in instantly, starting with a guitar riff and saccharine vocals from Hatzimihali before the fierce chorus lines, which blend seamlessly with the guitar riffs and hard-hitting drum beats.

“Made of Lies” describes concern around a relationship, with Hatzimihali singing about how she is self aware and conscious about falling in love with someone. It’s a powerful topic that feels fitting for a band of Elysion’s nature.

“Innocence died in my childhood/ I would trust you, but I’m afraid” (“Made of Lies”, Someplace Better, Elysion).

The album also draws comparison to some more recent works, with certain tracks sounding similar to bands like Mexican sibling trio The Warning, who are led by the effervescent Daniela Villarreal Veliz. One of the best examples of this is in the chorus line of “Breakfree”. In addition to this, the themes in songs on the album are similar to those in The Warning’s majorly popular album Keep Me Fed.

“Forever drift away with me/Surrender to the heartbeat” (“Breakfree”, Someplace Better, Elysion).

With songs like “The Promise” included in the record, it also shows a slightly different side to Elysion. The song still finds its strength in being a rock ballad, but has a much slower tone that changes the feel of the track, especially at the start.

Someplace Better makes you feel as if you are watching them in a large amphitheatre, with a heavy atmospheric nature to the album and orchestral rock elements that pair beautifully with the vocals. This record also has mastering from David Collins, who has worked with The Grateful Dead, Alice in Chains and Black Sabbath and the inclusion of an industry professional with his level of experience makes the album even more memorable.

 

Bring Out Your Dead (March 17, 2023)

The latest Elysion album, Bring Out Your Dead is a work of art with a hard-hitting tracklist which blends vocals and rock elements fantastically.

Inspired by the after effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the world we live in, this record sees Hatzimihali and her motley crew take a very mature approach to the issue, with songs such as “Crossing Over” describing the search for a silver lining in uncertainty.

“With every promise that you’re breaking/ With every stumbling you’re making, I’m free/ And I’m crossing over” (“Crossing Over”, Bring Out Your Dead, Elysion).

The band using the album to share their stance on the issues that the worldwide lockdown brought with it is a decision that has seen them highly praised.

“Already overwhelmed with emotions and melodies to share, the unexpected pandemic adds a veil of darkness to everyone’s world today. This could not leave ELYSION untouched either.” (Fleuren, The Rock Online, Netherlands, 25.02.23)

The album’s greatest strength, perhaps, lies in its ability to showcase that during the gap between Someplace Better and Bring Out Your Dead, the band’s style has changed over the years.

“The music moved toward a heavier, more dynamic style, incorporating industrial and symphonic influences alongside the group’s established gothic sensibility. The album suggested a band transformed by its long absence from the public eye.” (Marchal, Almost Fear Entertainment, 17.08.25)

 

Elysion have taken the industry by storm with their strong metal sound, clear identity and mystical lyricism and they are strongly recommended to anyone looking for their new favourite metal band. Towards the end of last year, they signed a new contract with their German record label Massacre Records, and even though nothing has been announced officially yet, there is a strong possibility they will continue to delight their fans with releases in the near future.

After  the contract extension, a statement from the group was released, reading: “With new music on the way and bold plans ahead, the next chapter is already taking shape – louder, sharper and true to the band’s identity.”

It’s a new chapter that will surely make a positive impact when it’s opened.