REVIEW: ACCEPT, Metal Heart (1985)

 

ACCEPT, Metal Heart (1985)

RCA

Ένα άλμπουμ με ένα εξώφυλλο-τίτλο!

Το δεύτερο καλύτερο δημιούργημα των πέντε Γερμανών δεινοσαύρων της heavy metal σκηνής. Το χρυσό μετάλλιο ανήκει στο Balls To The Wall πριν αλλά το ασημένιο μετάλλιο εδώ έχει εξίσου θρυλικό περιεχόμενο. Metal Heart, Midnight Mover, Wrong Is Right, To High To Get It Right, Up To The Limit, Screaming For A Love Bite και Living For Tonite το κατατάσσουν στα κλασσικά, αν και σε πιο εμπορικό ύφος απ' τα πριν. Επιπλέον, επί προσωπικού είναι το πρώτο τους που απέκτησα  για την ακρίβεια, την κασέτα του που την πήρα (μαζί με  το Holy Diver των Dio) την οποία έχω ακόμα!

English Text:

An album adorned with a cover and title! This stands as the second magnum opus of the formidable quintet of German heavy metal dinosaurs. While the gold medal had previously been claimed by 'Balls To The Wall,' the silver medal introduced here carries content of equal legendary stature. Tracks like Metal Heart, Midnight Mover, Wrong Is Right, Too High To Get It Right, Up To The Limit, Screaming For A Love Bite, and Living For Tonite elevate it to classic status, albeit in a more commercially infused style compared to its predecessors. Moreover, on a personal note, it holds a special place as the first album I ever acquired—precisely the cassette I obtained (alongside Dio's Holy Diver), a cherished possession that still remains in my collection!

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης

SMORRAH's New Death Thrash Metal Single & Video: 'Age Of Decay'

 

Singer Marius comments: "If you always just take what's put in front of you, you're not really in control.'Age Of Decay' is a little different from most of our other songs. The track is more melodic and there are socially critical points in the lyrics, for example. Still, it has the typical dark vibe that we usually give our music and fits in easily with the rest of the upcoming album. A concentrated load of thrash riffs - combined with lots of solos and a catchy chorus. A journey through the everyday evil that we ourselves create. A reflection of our society. A reflection of ourselves."

REVIEW: ARTILLERY, The Face Of Fear (2018)

 

ARTILLERY, The Face Of Fear (2018)

Metal Blade Records

Θρας με κρανος Βικινγκ.

Οι Δανοι Thrashers/Speed Metalers σε ένα ακόμα από τα τελευταία τους, κλασσικά δισκάκια. Μέσα στην ιστορία τους εξελίχθηκε ο ήχος τους (κάτι ανάλογο με ότι συνέβη τους Γερμανούς Angel Dust) προς το Speed/Heavy παρά καλασικο Thrash.  Έντεκα κομμάτια ένα κι ένα και με τα κλασσικα τους Mind Οf Νo Return και Doctor Evil  επανηχογραφημενα σαν bonus !

English Text:

Thrash with a Viking Helmet.

Experience the relentless energy of Danish Thrashers and Speed Metallers in yet another gem from their discography. This classic album reflects the evolution of their sound throughout their storied history—a shift reminiscent of the transformation seen in Germany's Angel Dust, steering towards the realms of Speed and Heavy Metal rather than conventional Thrash.

Featuring eleven standout tracks, each a testament to their musical prowess, the album also includes revamped versions of their timeless hits, 'Mind Of No Return' and 'Doctor Evil,' presented as compelling bonus tracks.

As you delve into this musical odyssey, savor the essence of each riff and note, as the band not only pays homage to their Thrash roots but also crafts a narrative where tradition seamlessly intertwines with innovation. This is a journey that celebrates the spirit of metal, leaving an enduring mark on the ever-evolving landscape of the genre.

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης

REVIEW: RAVEN, WIPED OUT (1982)

 

RAVEN, WIPED OUT (1982)

Neat Records

Πρωτοπόροι μιας εποχής τόσο μακρινής.

Οι τρεις Εγγλέζοι, άρρηκτα συνδεδεμένοι με το NWOBHM μουσικό κίνημα στο δεύτερο άλμπουμ τους την εποχή εκείνη που οι δίσκοι έβγαιναν σχεδόν κάθε χρόνο, απ' όλα τα γκρουπ, γαζώνουν σαν πολυβόλο. Ένα άλμπουμ θεωρητικά κλασικό, από μια μπάντα που δυστυχώς είτε έχει ξεπεραστεί, είτε που ποτέ δεν αγαπήθηκε όσο άλλες. Παρόλαυτα, ένας δίσκος που έχει γκάζια, τσαγανό, όρεξη και κομματαρες. Επιρροή για μεγαθήρια όπως Metallica, Megadeth, Over Kill, Kreator και γενικότερα Thrash μπάντες κι αυτό λόγω της ταχύτητας  την οποία ανέπτυσσαν στις συνθέσεις τους. Με στιγμές σαν τα Faster than the Speed of Light,  Bring the Hammer Down, Fire Power, Battlezone, Star War, Hold Back The Fire σε ένα ξέφρενο πάρτι heavy metal πανδαισίας.

English Text:

Trailblazers of a bygone era, these three Englishmen were intimately entwined with the NWOBHM musical movement in their sophomore album, a period when records flooded the scene almost annually. From all the groups, they emerge with a relentless force, akin to a rapid-fire barrage. The album, theoretically a classic, hails from a band that, regrettably, has either been overshadowed or never garnered the affection accorded to others. Nevertheless, it's a record brimming with vigor, ferocity, zest, and standout tracks.

This opus stands as a profound influence on titans such as Metallica, Megadeth, Over Kill, Kreator, and the broader spectrum of Thrash bands, owing to the breakneck speed woven into their compositions. Moments like "Faster than the Speed of Light," "Bring the Hammer Down," "Fire Power," "Battlezone," "Star War," and "Hold Back The Fire" create an unrestrained heavy metal revelry, marking a pinnacle in the pantheon of musical ecstasy.

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης

BLAX – single “Shady Life” + new video

 

The Blax ensemble came into existence in March 2020, founded by the vocalist and songwriter Giampaolo Polidoro, widely known as Blax. The collaboration expanded with the inclusion of guitarist Marco Fanella, also known as Hektor, who, within a span of six months, recorded a demotape at the renowned "Ravel 5 Studio" in Latina. This endeavor paved the way for the production of a full-length album in 2021.

In 2022, the lineup was enriched with the additions of Emil Dellantonio (Hexen), Giulia Balestrieri (Katla), and Massimiliano Bergo (Argex). It was also the same year when Blax inked a deal with AlphaOmega. The culmination of their efforts materialized in October 2022 with the release of the album "Meravilia," featuring a collection of ten distinctive tracks.

Notably, among the noteworthy compositions included in the album is the captivating song "Shady Life."

WITCHER: Time of Wolves Unveils Debut Single

 

Russian metal opera project "Witcher: Time of Wolves" has released its debut single, "Time of Wolves." The song serves as a captivating introduction to the upcoming album, which promises to transport listeners into the enchanting world of monster hunters and the dark lore of Andrzej Sapkowski's novels. With its powerful riffs and soaring melodies, "Time of Wolves" showcases the project's ability to blend fantasy and metal seamlessly, creating an immersive and memorable auditory experience. Performed by Anton Gruzinsky (Age of Rage) and Sergey Dneprovsky (Citadel), the single sets the stage for what's sure to be an exceptional metal opera that will delight fans of the Witcher universe and heavy metal enthusiasts alike.

SOLITARY SABRED | DARKLON | DRAGON SKULL live @ Piraeus Club Academy – Σάββατο 20 Απριλίου

 

Το Σάββατο 20 Απριλίου 2024, στο Piraeus Live Academy, θα πραγματοποιηθεί μια συναυλία με τρία συγκροτήματα του επικού heavy metal: τους Solitary Sabred, τους Darklon και τους Dragon Skull.

Οι Solitary Sabred είναι ένα κυπριακό συγκρότημα με πλούσια ιστορία, το οποίο έχει κυκλοφορήσει τρία άλμπουμ. Το πιο πρόσφατο, το "Temple of the Serpent", κυκλοφόρησε τον Οκτώβριο του 2023.

Οι Darklon είναι ένα νεοσύστατο συγκρότημα από την Αθήνα, το οποίο έχει κυκλοφορήσει ένα άλμπουμ, το "The Redeemer", τον Ιανουάριο του 2024. Το άλμπουμ αυτό έχει λάβει πολύ καλές κριτικές.

Οι Dragon Skull είναι ένα ελληνικό συγκρότημα που ιδρύθηκε το 2020. Έχουν κυκλοφορήσει ένα ομότιλο ΕΡ το 2022 και εργάζονται πυρετωδώς στο πρώτο τους full album, το οποίο αναμένεται να κυκλοφορήσει το πρώτο εξάμηνο του 2024.

Η συναυλία αυτή αναμένεται να είναι μια μοναδική εμπειρία για τους λάτρεις του επικού heavy metal. Τα τρία συγκροτήματα θα παρουσιάσουν το καλύτερο υλικό τους, με πυρετώδη ενέργεια και πάθος.

REVIEW: GRAVE DIGGER, HEART OF DARKNESS (1995)

 

GRAVE DIGGER, HEART OF DARKNESS (1995)

GUN

Με το ένα πόδι στο σκαλί του θρόνου.

Οι Γερμανοί μετά την επαναφορά τους απ' την ανυπαρξία με τα The Reaper και το Symphony Of Death, έχοντας ήδη κεκτημένη ταχύτητα πάνε προς το   φως της μεταλλικής δόξας. Η "καρδιά του σκότους" σαν τίτλος βέβαια παραπέμπει στο ομότιτλο βιβλίο που βέβαια έχει εμπνεύσει από τον Κόπολα (Αποκάλυψη Τώρα - η μεταφορά στο παρόν του ίδιου έργου) μέχρι και τους Iron Maiden στο Edge Of Darkness κομμάτι που μιλάει για την ταινία του Κόπολα, που είναι η μεταφορά του βιβλίου στο παρόν..! Τα μπέρδεψα; Αυτός ήταν ο σκοπός μου! Εδώ οι Chris Boltendahl, Uwe Lulis,  Tomi Gottlich και Feank Ullrich μας πετάνε στη μάπα κομμάτια σαν τα Shadowmaker, The Grave Dancer, Warchild, Heart Of Darkness, Circle Of Witches, Black Death χωρίς έλεος.

English Text:

With one foot poised on the steps to the throne, the Germans, following their resurgence from obscurity with 'The Reaper' and 'Symphony Of Death,' are gaining momentum as they journey towards the radiant realm of metal glory. The title 'Heart of Darkness' undoubtedly alludes to the eponymous book, a source of inspiration extending from Coppola (Apocalypse Now - a contemporary adaptation of the same work) to Iron Maiden in their composition 'Edge Of Darkness,' which delves into Coppola's cinematic interpretation of the book in the present. Confused? That was my intention! Here, Chris Boltendahl, Uwe Lulis, Tomi Gottlich, and Frank Ullrich unapologetically thrust at us pieces such as 'Shadowmaker,' 'The Grave Dancer,' 'Warchild,' 'Heart Of Darkness,' 'Circle Of Witches,' and 'Black Death.'"

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης

REVIEW: BLIND GUARDIAN, A Night At The Opera (2002)

 

BLIND GUARDIAN, A Night At The Opera (2002)

Virgin

Τίτλος εμπνευσμένος από Queen...

Η δεύτερη κυκλοφορία τους που έζησα όντας συνειδητά "μεταλας", με το Nightfall In Middle Earth του 1998 να είναι η πρώτη και τί ψυχρολουσια ήταν αυτή η κυκλοφορία! Πολυφωνικά φωνητικά σε κάθε τραγούδι, μα σε κάθε όμως! Πιο προοδευτική αισθητική, όχι ακριβώς Prog Metal, αλλά με μία αφηρημένη έννοια του όρου. Καλά riffs βέβαια αλλά...πολύ φορτωμένο ρε σεις! Συμφωνικό σε σημεία. Δε ξέρω δεν το πήρα με καλό μάτι / αφτί,  εξ αρχής και μάλλον γι'αυτό ως και εικοσιένα χρόνια μετά (σ.σ. γεράσαμε) δεν είναι ποτέ η πρώτη μου επιλογή. Δυστυχώς η σύνθεση μετά από εδώ χάνει τον αρχικό ντράμερ τους Thomen "The Omen" Stauch, ο οποίος δεν αισθάνονταν καλά με αυτό το νέο ύφος. Τα ραγισματα διαφαινοταν και στο πολύ καλό προηγούμενο με τον Hansi να αφοσιώνεται στο μικρόφωνο αφήνοντας το μπάσο σε επιπλέον μπασίστα, ήδη από το 1996 στα live τους, τον πολύ καλό Oliver Holzwarth (στους Rhapsody αργότερα).

English Text:

Title inspired by Queen...

This marks their second musical venture that I embraced with full awareness of my "metalhead" identity, with Nightfall In Middle Earth from 1998 standing as the pioneering encounter—a release that hit me like a refreshing wave! Each track boasts polyphonic vocals, a distinct feature meticulously woven into the fabric of their sound. While not precisely falling into the Prog Metal genre, the album carries a progressive aesthetic with an abstract touch to the term.

The presence of compelling riffs is undeniable, yet the overall composition feels, at times, heavily laden. There's a symphonic infusion, adding a layer of complexity to the sonic landscape. Personally, I must admit that I didn't resonate with it right from the start, perhaps contributing to the fact that even after two decades (editor's note: we've gracefully aged), it never quite clinches the top spot in my playlist.

Regrettably, the departure of their original drummer, Thomen "The Omen" Stauch, following this release is palpable. His discomfort with the new musical direction becomes apparent, and this shift is echoed in the preceding excellent album. Hansi, already by 1996 in their live performances, began to focus on vocals, entrusting the bass duties to the highly proficient Oliver Holzwarth (later associated with Rhapsody).

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης

Silius release their first single/video for the song “Shell Shocked”!

 

The band, comments on the new song: “We are all shell shocked. All of us somehow. By all the shit we see on television, social media and other dubious websites. This song is about war and all the misery it brings. It's about the soldiers that lost their lives on the war field, and for those who made it out but still suffer. Shellshock is supposed to be a mind-blowing nuclearholical middle-finger bomb against the narrowminded, violence – fulfilled, self-righteous spirit of human behavior.  NO GLORIFICATION – JUST DOCUMENTATION!”

This is the first track to feature the new band members Benji (vocals) and Manu (Drums) since the line-up change in late 2023!

Throne of Thorns release their new video single “Atomic Retribution”!

 

Throne of Thorns release their new video for second single “Atomic Retribution”! Debut album 'Converging Parallel Worlds’ out on February 16, 2024.

Vhäldemar: signed with MDD Records, new album before summer!

 

Spanish power metal sensation VHÄLDEMAR has officially inked a deal with MDD Records, heralding the upcoming release of their highly anticipated follow-up to the 2020 masterpiece, "Straight to Hell." The album has already made its mark in stores across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland through MDD, with a wider release slated for the summer. Building on the success of their previous collaboration, the band and label swiftly solidified their partnership for this exciting new venture.

Established in 1999, VHÄLDEMAR has been a prominent force in the metal scene, boasting an impressive discography of 6 albums and a collection of singles/EPs. Widely recognized as one of the foremost heavy metal acts in their home country, the band continues to captivate audiences with their dynamic sound and electrifying performances.

The forthcoming album, featuring 11 compelling tracks, is nearing completion, promising a sonic journey that will undoubtedly leave fans eagerly anticipating its arrival. Stay tuned for more information, as VHÄLDEMAR prepares to unleash their latest musical creation upon the world. Be ready for an unforgettable experience! Further details to be revealed soon.

ΜΕΜΦΙΣ LIVE στο ΚΥΤΤΑΡΟ! “10 YEARS ANNIVERSARY”

 

Οι ΜΕΜΦΙΣ, μια ελληνική rock/metal μπάντα με 10 χρόνια πορείας, γιορτάζουν την επέτειο τους με μια ζωντανή εμφάνιση στο Κύτταρο την Παρασκευή 2 Φεβρουαρίου 2024.

Η μπάντα δημιουργήθηκε το 2013 από μέλη με εμπειρία στο χώρο του ακραίου μέταλ και έχει κυκλοφορήσει τρία άλμπουμ. Το μουσικό τους ύφος χαρακτηρίζεται από ένα συνδυασμό alternative rock, metal και ethnic στοιχείων, με ιδιαίτερη έμφαση στις μελωδίες και στους στίχους.

Την ίδια βραδιά θα εμφανιστούν και οι COUNTOWN, μια Αθηναϊκή nu metal μπάντα με ενεργή πορεία από το 2006. Οι COUNTOWN έχουν κυκλοφορήσει δύο άλμπουμ και έχουν εμφανιστεί σε πολλά φεστιβάλ και συναυλίες στην Ελλάδα και το εξωτερικό.

Την τρίτη θέση της βραδιάς θα πάρει η νεοσύστατη μπάντα Misty Route, που σχηματίστηκε το 2019. Οι Misty Route παίζουν alternative metal με επιρροές από ψυχεδελικό ροκ και metal. Το πρώτο τους άλμπουμ, "Without A Trace", κυκλοφόρησε το 2021 και έχει αποσπάσει θετικές κριτικές.

Εισιτήρια

Τα εισιτήρια για την εκδήλωση κοστίζουν 10€ στην προπώληση και 13€ στο ταμείο. Η προπώληση γίνεται μέσω της Viva.

Πληροφορίες

Ημερομηνία: Παρασκευή 2 Φεβρουαρίου 2024

Ώρα: 21:00 (πόρτες) / 21:30 (έναρξη)

Χώρος: Κύτταρο Live Club (Ηπείρου 48 & Αχαρνών)

Τηλέφωνο: 2108224134

Εισιτήρια: 10€ (προπώληση) / 13€ (ταμείο)

Προπώληση: Viva

SILVERTONGUEDEVIL Unleashes New Single 'Royalty' from Upcoming EP

 

American Thrash Metal powerhouse SILVERTONGUEDEVIL has just dropped a relentless sonic assault with their latest single, "Royalty," extracted from the band's highly anticipated EP, "Conquest of the Inferno." Recorded at the prestigious "Reeltime Audio Studios" and skillfully mixed/mastered by Eric Delegard, this release is a testament to the band's uncompromising commitment to delivering raw, unadulterated metal. Formed in 2005 in Dallas, Texas, SILVERTONGUEDEVIL, under their own label "All Devils Music," has already unleashed three full-length albums and two EPs, establishing themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the metal scene. The blistering track "Royalty" features an electrifying guest solo by Mike Wilson, the talented guitarist from thrash band CHEMICAUST. Brace yourself for a headbanging journey as SILVERTONGUEDEVIL continues to conquer the realms of heavy metal with their latest offering.

STORMHUNTER: "Best Before: Death" will be released on March 21st!

 

Get ready for an electrifying experience as the upcoming album from southern German heavy metallers, Stormhunter, is set to unleash its power under the title "Best Before: Death" on March 21st! This masterpiece was crafted at Iguana Studios, skillfully overseen by the maestro Christoph Brandes, while the visual spectacle is brought to life by the artistic prowess of Timon Kokott – a sneak peek of the captivating cover awaits!

Dive into the essence of Stormhunter's soul with "Best Before: Death," hailed as their "most personal album" to date. Drawing inspiration from a tapestry of experiences in the band's realm, the album weaves together 11 new tracks, including two mesmerizing instrumentals. With intricate guitar work and a symphony of melodies, this release promises to be a treat for aficionados of classic "German Heavy Metal." Stay tuned for a tantalizing preview, offering a glimpse into the sonic journey that awaits!

APOCALYPSE: vinyl reissue and new lyric video online!

 

The epic metal band Apocalypse has announced the upcoming vinyl reissue of their debut album, "Si Vis Pacem, Para Bellum," scheduled for release in March 2024. Earth and Sky Productions, under license from MiMo Sound Records, is handling the release, while Broken Bones Promotion will manage the promotion. The remastering of all tracks was done by Micke Moberg, known for engineering the latest Bathory albums. The reissue marks the fifth anniversary of the album's original release, which solidified the band's presence in the epic/viking metal scene. As part of the celebration, the band has released a new lyric video for the song "The Day Of Sorrow."

SCANNER release their new video for the song “Warriors of the Light”!

 

SCANNER unveils an enthralling visual experience with the release of their latest music video, showcasing the powerful anthem "Warriors of the Light"! This electrifying track is a standout from the band's highly anticipated album, "The Cosmic Race," which made its debut on January 12, 2024, as a limited edition Mediabook CD, inclusive of an exclusive patch. Embracing diversity, the album also offers enthusiasts the choice of two limited splatter vinyl versions, as well as an ultra-exclusive picture disc edition. For those in the digital realm, the album is readily available for streaming and download, ensuring that fans can immerse themselves in the sonic journey of "The Cosmic Race." SCANNER continues to push boundaries and captivate audiences with their dynamic blend of music, leaving an indelible mark on the musical landscape.

THE GEMS Unveil Fifth Single “Fruits Of My Labor”

 

The Gems, Sweden's highly anticipated new rock band, composed of former Thundermother members Guernica Mancini, Emlee Johansson, and Mona “Demona” Lindgren, are gearing up for the release of their debut album, "Phoenix," scheduled for January 26, 2024. Ahead of the album launch, they have unveiled the fifth single, "Fruits Of My Labor." The trio gained industry attention even before naming themselves and began performing internationally with just one standalone single, achieving significant airplay chart success in Germany. Having previously reached #6 on the Official German Album Charts twice with their former band, The Gems have an impressive festival history, performing at Wacken, Sweden Rock, and Alcatraz, and providing tour support for the iconic rock band Scorpions. With their debut album, "Phoenix," The Gems are poised to make a mark in the rock scene, rising from the ashes of their past successes. Fans are encouraged to place pre-orders and explore the lyric video for the sentimental track, "Fruits Of My Labor."

THE GEMS on “Fruits Of My Labor”:

“This song is about overcoming and appreciating the struggles on the way to making your dreams come true. ♥”

KNIGHTS OF HELIOPOLIS release “The Planeswalkers” EP

 

The Knights of Heliopolis, a band known for their "Rolist Symphonic Metal," has released a new EP consisting of five singles. Unlike their usual style, these singles serve as side stories within the Helioverse, featuring the knights as "planeswalkers" who can traverse different worlds and dimensions. The narratives don't follow the main storyline of their previous works but instead focus on chasing the malevolent Beast across universes inspired by famous video games.

The EP pays homage to beloved video games such as Elden Ring, Warhammer 40K, Final Fantasy VII, and a YouTube channel called La Bonne Auberge, known for its Role Playing Game content. The band collaborates with La Bonne Auberge on a song related to their lore, emphasizing their shared 'Rolist Symphonic Metal' identity. Musically, the EP explores modern symphonic and Power Metal, aligning with the diverse universes they draw inspiration from. Each single adopts a unique approach, ranging from a progressive sound in 'The Planeswalkers' to an epic, bombastic feel in 'In The Shadow Of The Erdtree' and even an Industrial Metal style in 'Adeptus Astartes.'

Despite the varied musical exploration, the EP retains the signature elements of the Knights of Heliopolis, including Axel's deep bass voice, heavy riffing, epic orchestrations, thunderous bass, and impactful drums. Overall, the band aims to immerse listeners in a new adventure within the multiverse while paying tribute to the video game worlds that inspire their music.

GILIATH Unveils New Single

 

Italian Black Metal band GILIATH has just released their latest single, "Shining More Than Light," a preview of their upcoming album "Sefiroth" set to be released on Nova Era Records. Recorded, mixed, and mastered by Francesco Petrelli at "Divergent Studios," the band, formed in 2020 in Bari, Italy, boasts a unique compositional style blending the foundations of European black metal with a distinct focus on the Scandinavian vein. The addition of new members in 2022 and 2023 completes the lineup, solidifying GILIATH's regional identity in the symphonic and atmospheric black metal genre.

REVIEW: THE MAGIC BUS - Σε Άγνωστα Νερά (aka uncharted territory)

 

THE MAGIC BUS - Σε Άγνωστα Νερά (aka uncharted territory)

Independent

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The reality is, my first encounter with the notion of the magic bus was through the poetic verses of the Greek rock ensemble TRYPES, specifically within the folds of their song titled "Ταξιδιάρα Ψυχή" ("Wandering Soul"). Delving into my findings, it appears that this mystical bus represents a Greek tourist agency that, during the early '80s, pioneered cost-effective routes to London, Amsterdam, and Berlin, standing out among its counterparts. Its allure lay in the affordability, capturing the hearts of the youth during that era as their preferred mode of travel.

It's plausible that this intriguing tale served as inspiration for THE MAGIC BUS when selecting their band name. After all, music is a profound odyssey of the soul and intellect, weaving through a tapestry of emotions and ideas. The band's current EP resonates with a truly adventurous spirit.

In this musical endeavor, the band embarks on a voyage into the tapestry of our country's traditional and cultural wealth, skillfully blending it with the vivacity of rock music. While some may view this fusion as a daunting endeavor, the reality is that, with inspiration, determination, and a genuine soulful commitment, the boundaries are limitless. After all, even the roots of rock music trace back to folk origins.

In alignment with this mindset, the band skillfully covers the well-known composition by Giorgos Chatzinasios with lyrics by Nikos Gatsos, titled "Yarem Yarem or Giarem Giarem." They also breathe new life into the traditional piece "Vasiliki" and showcase two original compositions, such as "To Kapote Ego (The Whilom Me)." The EP concludes on a poetic note with the composition "Karavi Fantasma (Ghost Ship)," drawing inspiration from the verses of Dimitris Panagodimos.

Through these four compelling compositions, each exuding a robust rock character, THE MAGIC BUS adeptly reminds us of the cultural opulence inherent in our country. In an era where this richness seems to be waning across various spectrums, the band urges us to recognize the vitality of our traditions. They underscore that our heritage is a living entity, capable of serving as a fount of inspiration for contemporary creations—a narrative far removed from the antiquated or museum-worthy perception.

In conclusion, beyond a mere endorsement, I encourage you to immerse yourself in this musical tapestry. It's a captivating exploration marked by a freshness of ideas, a profound love for tradition and culture, and, most importantly, a beautiful journey through a spectrum of emotions and ideas. The only fare required is a modest investment of your time.

Νικόλαος Παραστατίδης