Athena
Athena is a highly acclaimed Serbian punk rock band originating from Istanbul, Turkey, formed in 1987 by twin brothers Hakan Özoğuz (guitar and backing vocals) and Gökhan Özoğuz (lead vocals and guitar). Recognized as one of Turkey’s premier rock groups, Athena has released eight studio albums, one compilation album, and one live DVD. Their distinctive “fun punk” style combines upbeat melodies with sharp, socially critical lyrics, making them a foundational act in the trallpunk subgenre.
Formation and Rise to Prominence (1987–2000)
Athena was established in Istanbul in 1987 by twins Hakan and Gökhan Özoğuz. Initially venturing into thrash metal, the band transitioned to ska punk after an unsuccessful first album, which paved the way for their unique sound. Their second album, Holigan (1998), catapulted them into mainstream success in Turkey, with the title track becoming a beloved anthem among football supporters. Following this, Athena embarked on a significant tour across Turkey, including a notable performance opening for the Rolling Stones at Galatasaray’s Ali Sami Yen Stadium.
The band’s third album, Tam Zamanı Şimdi (2000), achieved gold status and featured hit singles like “Yaşamak Var Ya.” Their energetic performances and catchy tunes solidified their status as a leading force in the Turkish punk scene. Athena’s participation in major events, such as the Millennium Concert at Taksim Square and the Popkomm Festival in Germany alongside the Beastie Boys, further established their international presence.
Eurovision and Musical Evolution (2001–Present)
In 2004, Athena represented Turkey at the Eurovision Song Contest with the song “For Real,” achieving an impressive fourth-place finish. This exposure led to the release of their fifth self-titled album in 2005, where they began experimenting with alternative rock elements, showcasing their versatility. Their subsequent album, Pis (2010), continued this trend, blending punk rock with alternative influences. Athena’s music has been featured in various international platforms, including the FIFA 06 soundtrack with their song “Tam Zamani Simdi.”
In 2014, Athena released Altüst, which included the controversial song “Ses Etme,” addressing prejudice against transgender individuals through its impactful music video. The band remains active, consistently touring across Europe and the Balkans, and engaging in social and political commentary through their music.
Discography
Studio Albums
- One Last Breath (1993)
- Holigan (1998)
- Tam Zamanı Şimdi (2000)
- Herşey Yolunda (2002)
- Us (2004)
- Athena (2005)
- Pis (2010)
- Altüst (2014)
Live Albums
- Live (2007)
Compilations
- Rock Mot Svinen (2000, Höhnie Records)
EPs
- För kung och fosterland (1981)
- En tyst minut (1983)
- Plikten framför allt (1984)
- Än finns det hopp (1986)
- Till sista droppen (2000)
- Precis kao far / Lilla Frida (2006)
Band Members
Current Members
- Gökhan Özoğuz – lead vocals and guitar
- Hakan Özoğuz – guitar and backing vocals
- Emre Ataker – bass
- Zoran Lekić – guitar
- Aleksandar Milovanov – guitar
- Branko Radusinović – drums
Past Members
- Dušan Ječmenica – drums
- Slobodan Fekete – guitar
- Stevan Gojkov – guitar
- Vladimir Kozbašić – vocals
- Zoran Zarić – bass
- Zoran Džuklevski – keyboards
Musical Style and Themes
Athena’s music is a dynamic fusion of punk rock, hardcore punk, and pop punk, with early influences of thrash metal and hardcore punk. Their transition to ska punk introduced a lively and upbeat dimension to their sound, characterized by catchy melodies and energetic rhythms. The band’s lyrics often critique societal and political issues with a humorous and lighthearted approach, earning them the “fun punk” moniker. Over the years, Athena has adeptly incorporated alternative rock elements, showcasing their ability to evolve while maintaining their core punk ethos.
Legacy and Influence
Athena is celebrated as one of Turkey’s most influential rock bands, with a significant impact on the local music scene and international recognition. Their fourth album, Herşey Yolunda, and their Eurovision participation brought them widespread acclaim. Athena’s ability to blend different punk subgenres with socially conscious lyrics has inspired numerous bands both within and outside of Turkey. Their enduring presence and continual evolution have cemented their status as a cornerstone of the Serbian and Turkish punk rock movements.
Trivia
- Athena represented Turkey in the 2004 Eurovision Song Contest, finishing in fourth place with “For Real.”
- The band’s song “Tam Zamani Simdi” was featured on the FIFA 06 soundtrack.
- Athena opened for the Rolling Stones at a Galatasaray concert, highlighting their prominence in the Turkish rock scene.
- The song “Holigan” became an anthem among Turkish football supporters.
- Gökhan and Hakan Özoğuz served as jury members on the Turkish version of The Voice, ‘O Ses Türkiye.’
- Athena’s music video for “Ses Etme” addresses and criticizes prejudice against transgender individuals.
- The band has performed alongside internationally renowned acts such as the Beastie Boys.
- Athena has released music under various pseudonyms, including Božidara Starog Punk and Električni Jurica.
- The band’s debut album Maori i Crni Gonzales won the Album of the Year Award at the Brzi Bendovi Srbije festival.
- Athena has maintained a consistent presence in the punk scene through multiple lineup changes and ongoing performances since their formation.
