Biography
CROSSWIND
The CROSSWIND story began sometime in the mid/late 90's, when a group of teenagers got together with the dream of forming a band that would encompass all those elements of Heavy Metal that they loved. Through very difficult times they managed to forge their first Demo CD "Dark Omens", which proved to also be the band's first period swan song. For a multitude of reasons, it was impossible for the band to continue.
Fast-forwarding to around 2005 the founding members Kyriakos and Vasilis M. started the band again. Their sole purpose, once again, to create and play music without any compromises. Blending the finest ingredients of what makes Metal so great: Speed, Power, Melody and Substance. CROSSWIND's sound can be described as the fusion of NWOBHM's melody, German Power Metal's speed and technique and American Heavy Metal's epic sound. This amalgam of influences rooted in fine Metal tradition as well as the addition of allegorical lyrics and an orchestral perception towards arrangements underpin CROSSWIND's new beginning.
The outcome of this new start was CROSSWIND's second official Demo EP "Beyond", which came out in 2008. This EP marking CROSSWIND's rebirth was hailed through the underground as soon as it was released, with rave reviews in fanzines, magazines and metal websites.
In 2009, CROSSWIND returned with a second offering of their brand of metal with the Demo EP called "Opposing Forces". 3 more dynamite tracks and a cover of Queensryche's "Walk in the Shadows" were included this time. Once again, the underground worldwide was taken by storm. Rave reviews, interviews in electronic and print media helped the band reach more fans around the world.
The success of the band's 2 EPs in underground circles worldwide led to a deal with U.S based Stormspell Records in 2010. Through Stormspell recs, both EPs were combined in a one-CD version that included revamped artwork and extensive booklets.
In the summer of 2010, the band was invited by Magic Circle Music to participate with one track in the Tribute album to Ronnie James Dio called "Magic", along with bands like MANOWAR, JACK STARR and HOLYHELL.
Following that, CROSSWIND were invited to open Magic Circle Festival IV @ METALCAMP in Slovenia. There, CROSSWIND had the honor and opportunity to share the stage with legends like VIRGIN STEELE, KAMELOT, ARCH ENEMY and MANOWAR.
Since then, CROSSWIND have been on a rampage of shows in their homeland playing with the cream of the crop of the local heavy metal scene.
In the year of 2014, CROSSWIND unleashed their eagerly awaited full-length album, "Vicious Dominion", setting the metal community ablaze with fervor and acclaim from fans worldwide. This monumental release not only garnered massive support but also resonated with enthusiasts, earning resounding praise. The album showcased CROSSWIND's trademark ferocity while introducing a heightened level of richness and refinement. Within "Vicious Dominion", the band expertly wove maniacal riffing into sweeping orchestral arrangements, entwining intricate guitar harmonies with multi-layered, multi-octave vocals. The relentless force of the fine-tuned rhythm section served as the backbone, contributing to the album's unrelenting sonic onslaught. In the wake of "Vicious Dominion", CROSSWIND firmly established themselves as a powerhouse in the Greek metal scene.
Now, as of 2024, the band is not resting on its laurels. Currently, CROSSWIND is in the creative whirlwind, working tirelessly on their highly anticipated new full-length album. Building on their foundation of furious power and refined musicality, the band is poised to deliver another masterpiece that will resonate with metal enthusiasts worldwide. Stay tuned as CROSSWIND prepares to unleash a new chapter in their epic musical journey!
Band Lineup:
Vasilis Topalidis – Vocals
Kyriakos Vasdokas – Guitars, Vocals
Leon Tsorbatzoglou – Guitars
Vasilis Kyrkos – Bass
Vasilis Mitsaris – Drums
