Biography

Spearheaded by composer, vocalist, and keyboardist Stelios Ioakim, Joakem delivers a powerful and emotionally charged progressive metal experience, blending atmospheric depth and gripping melodies with expressive heavinessand rhythmic complexity.

The project thrives through dynamic live collaboration with some of Cyprus’s top musicians, together with long-standing band members Bob Saganas (guitars), Nakis Kyriakou (drums), and Miguel Trapezaris (bass), unleashing the songs as a compelling live experience.

A classically trained pianist since the age of six, Stelios began expanding his musical journey in 2009 as a member of several bands, performing in numerous venues and festivals. Over the years, he evolved into a highly versatile vocalist, keyboardist, exploratory sound designer, and composer, drawing from progressive rock, metal, classical, fusion and ambient influences. Stelios rose to wider prominence as the runner-up finalist in The Voice of Greece (2018), offering international publicity.

In 2018, Joakem was formed and released the singles “The Path” and “Generation Z”, followed by the debut 8-track full-length album “Mind Matter”, showcasing diverse vocal styles, haunting ambience, evolving time signatures, aggressive guitars, and heavy synth work. In April 2026 they released their comeback single, “Origins”, the first song from the upcoming second album, returning with a heavier, more refined, and more technical sound.

Since the debut album’s release, Joakem has expanded into a full live band, performing extensively at venues and festivals across both local and international stages. Their latest achievement includes winning the Cyprus Metal 2 The Masses contest and securing a place at Bloodstock, the UK’s largest independent rock and metal festival.

With an unwavering vision and a dedicated live lineup, they continue to evolve as one of the most dynamic acts emerging from the Mediterranean. Joakem is currently in the process of producing a new studio album and music videos, further refining their progressive signature sound and cinematic musical storytelling.