Guitarist Nick Orlando and Bassist Rob Robichaud under the name Funereus formed Evoken in April of 1992. After a few lineup changes and a brief period of time under the name Asmodeus, the original lineup of Evoken was formed. One more lineup change occurred and as of April 1996 the current lineup was formed.It is from left to right: Steve Moran- Bass; Vince Verkay- Drums;John Paradiso- Guitars/vocals; Nick Orlando- Guitars; and Dario Derna - Keyboards. Evoken's first MCD release titled "Shades of Night Descending" was originally self-released by the band in early 1995 and then re-released in 1996 by French label Adipocere Records with a new cover. That was followed by a promo demo '96 and another promo demo in '97. Evoken also did a track in '97 for an Iron Maiden tribute entitled "A Call to Irons" on Dwell Records. Evoken subsequently signed to Elegy Records in 1998, releasing the bands debut full length CD, "Embrace the Emptiness". Soon after, Evoken contributed to the Black Sabbath tribute "Hell Rules 2" on Dwell Records in early 1999. Since then, Evoken have inked a two album deal with Italian label, Avantgarde Records. The new CD "Quietus", will also be released by Dwell Records in the U.S.
Although often compared to Disembowelment, Thergothon, and Winter, Evoken have developed their own unique sound within the doom/death genre. Their new album "Quietus" creates an old, haunting atmosphere while still maintaining the dark, ominous, and heavy overtones of past releases. Evoken are intent on keeping the dark flame of the elder doom/death bands burning by making absolutely no compromises. Soon, Evoken are looking to play shows throughout the U.S., and especially Europe. Looking to build upon the cult status success of "Embrace the Emptiness", Evoken promise that "Quietus", will haunt the inner soul with fear and agony, and leave many to claw hopelessly at the ebony gates of oblivion.
EVOKEN
