Phoenix Reign (NY)

Formed in 1998 Phoenix Reign has been paying there dues in the metal scene. Wanting to be taken more seriously the band aquired a new singer in early 2002. Since then things have been looking on the up and up. with 3 demos and an album being ready to be recorded Phoenix Reign is ready to take on the metal scene full force, and show the fans what true metal really is.

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 1998 with founding members Billy Chrissochos and Chris Pollatos, playing guitar and bass respectively. For a time, they played with other musicians who did not fit their musical vision. Eventually they were fortunate enough to obtain the services of friend Kostas Psarros on guitar, and Phoenix Reign was officially formed in Greece when singer Eugene Siouzos joined. Shortly thereafter, Wayne Noon joined to fill in the then-vacant drumming position. With that lineup, the band worked together until early 2002 and produced their first demo. They played clubs like L’amour with George Lynch from Dokken’s Lynch Mob, as well as the then-king of underground clubs Castle Heights with other metal acts like Zandelle and Gothic Knights.

The band’s progress was stifled with the departure of Eugene due to musical differences and his decision to pursue other goals. It was mutually agreed that Phoenix Reign could go even further if they found a new singer. Billy, Chris, Wayne and Gus went through months of searching, placing ads in local music papers, bulletin boards and on the internet.

They tried out several singers, but never thought to look towards their friend and fan, Theresa Gaffney, until they were ready to give it up. In April of 2002, after very successful tryouts and the four finally deciding that a female singer would suit them, Terri was officially the new front woman.

Shortly after joining, the group began gigging again, hitting some of the old faithful clubs, and exploring new territory with successful shows in places like the Continental, Le Bar Bat, the Village Underground. They received very positive reviews about their new demo, one among them saying, “It's nice to see someone in the NYC area trying to make actual metal these days!” (see www.metal-archives.com). Phoenix Reign is currently in the planning stages for a full-length CD.

Yes we play live very often. Weve play at places like Lamour, Castle Heights, The Village Underground, CBGB, Continental and other places in the NY area. Of course we like playing out. If we didnt why bother having a band? A special moment for me was the bands first show. Even though to some people it wasnt such a big deal at the time but to me and the band it was like ok now this band might actually start to go somewhere.

the band has a wide range of influences from classical to heavy metal. most of our influences are scorpions, judas priest, helloween, iron maiden, manowar, van halen, queensryche, led zepplin etc.

Drums: are 7 piece Pearl forum/export with sabian and zyldjian cymbals and a pearl double pedal.

guitars: fenders

amps: marshalls

Phoenix Reign is:

Vocals- Theresa Gaffney

Guitars- Billy Chrissochos

Guitars- Kostas Psarros

Drums- Wayne Noon

Bass- Chris Pollatos