Initially hailing from Greece, Phase have since relocated to Newcastle and are currently enjoying a decent amount of success. POINT BLANK thought it was only fair to see what they had to say. Answering the questions, vocalist Thanos.

Give us a brief rundown on the band

Phase came about somewhat 10 years ago when a functioning line up came together and set previously piled up ideas to motion. Songs started taking final shape and got to be played live for the first time. Since then the band has grown significantly, taking some really impressive steps.

Why the decision to relocate to the NE of England?

It’s something we don’t quite talk about publicly, but here you go! After having an impressive run I was called to serve the military, and me being a pacifist I had to make some serious decisions which weren’t so easy for the band and caused friction aside from the geographical problems. Don’t get me wrong I would probably fight in the Second World War and all, but I don’t think getting trained to kill people is a decent thing. That sentiment was especially strengthened after going for our gig in Syria, experiencing first hand how people are indoctrinated from a young age in being patriotic. As we’ve all seen all this patriotism didn’t help people much in not being at war with each other. Finally this year we have overcome most of our problems and we will be having a very productive 2018.

How does the UK scene differ to that in Greece?

I think whilst there are so many good bands in Greece, the audience isn’t that educated, or open to new music. Here in the UK people will attend a concert religiously while in Greece they will be more often than not, disrespectful to bands talking all the way throughout their set even if that would be the main act they’ve paid loads of Euros to see. Another thing is that in the UK being a creative is regarded as a great thing, while in Greece it is  massively frowned upon.

Where are the best locations you have played locally?

Ah, we have loved every place. From Brighton to Sunderland, although the Newcastle gigs are more enjoyable because they tend to be better promoted.

It’s been seven years since the release of your debut LP – how has the group changed in that time?

Well, we have grown more mature for one. It’s something that comes with time. We have more faith in what we are doing, and naturally are more secure doing that. We’ve managed to travel around a bit together which has strengthened the relationships between us…

What are the group’s future plans?

We have some new releases in the works and hopefully we will get to gig a bit more extensively now that Jonny, our new manager,  is looking well into that! We will see you around quite soon as it appears!