Transformations

From new wave to alternative rock, to psychedelic/progressive, to heavy progressive, to…?

Takis Barbagalas definitely likes changes as his 28-year spanning career proves.

First major step was Lefki Symfonia (White Symphony).

The group formed in 1984 and released 2 important and influential albums (Mystikoi Kipoi 1986, Iho tou Pothou 1988) before Barbagalas leave in 1991.

These first albums were closer to new wave (their sound became harder after Barbagalas left).



Lefki Symfonia - Mystikoi Kipoi (Secret Gardens) from the album with same name, 1986

In 1994 Barbagalas released a new album and single with Red Mist, the new band he formed with former singer of metal band Selefice. The sound is heavy like the grunge and alternative rock sound of the era.



Red Mist - Empire of All from their 1994 single (the song was also included in the album)

Barbagalas then makes a u-turn and deep dives into 70s psychedelic/progressive sound.

Will-o-the wisp seems to be the best vehicle for his artistic quest.
Formed in 1997 Will-o-the wisp released their first self-titled album in 1999.



Will-o-the wisp - Elbereth (Lonely Queen) from their first album, 1999

Another 3 albums follow (Second Sight in 2000, Ceremony of innocence in 2004 and A gift for your dreams in 2007) were the sound becomes even richer and the compositions move towards a pure progressive form reaching high standards on their last album, A gift for your dreams.

Will-o-the wisp - Nature Boy from A gift for your dreams album, 2007

The same team, that is the Will-o-the wisp composition since 2005 (Takis Barbagalas: guitars, Agelos Gerakitis: vocals, Kostas Pagonas: bass and Kostas Kostopoulos: drums), has started a parallel project under the name Manticore’s Breath.

Manticore's Breath - Devil's Hunger from 2010 EP

Their first 10inch was released in 2010 including 2 songs indicating a shift towards more heavy progressive forms.

Their 2011 album Death Breath actually established the new direction with 6 new tracks with heavy guitar riffs, a tight rhythm section and haunted vocals.
The album is released in 600 vinyl copies (sold out) and cd.

Manticore's Breath - Your truth is a dead God from Death Breath album, 2011


info: http://www.will-o-thewisp.gr