Bouzouki Greek

The roots of rebetic song may be found in the music of the coastal settlements of Asia Minor or Anatolia in English or Anadolu in Turkish, that of Istanbul and Izmir, and also in the prisons; the existence of which is attested from the middle of the nineteenth century.

The roots of rebetic song may be found in the music of the coastal settlements of Asia Minor or Anatolia in English or Anadolu in Turkish, that of Istanbul and Izmir, and also in the prisons; the existence of which is attested from the middle of the nineteenth century.

British-born composer Lydia Kakabadse celebrates her multicultural heritage (Greek/Austrian mother and Georgian/Russian father) through her diverse musical output. Recorded in London, her latest album showcases an even broader range of music compared to her previous works, integrating ethnic instruments into Western music. Featuring the innovative ‘alternative string quartet’ (violin, viola, cello, and double bass), the title track "Kefi" introduces the Greek Bouzouki and ‘Greek oud’ or politiko laout. While exploring a wide array of textures and styles, the music is unified by the use of the double harmonic scale.

This CD contains two historical LP of 1964 with greek popular songs by Mikis Theodorakis written on poetry of 3 great Greek poets. The composer, the singers, the lyricists and the bouzouki players are literally the top of the top of the Greek musical scene. The title "Politia" in Greek means "city" and characterizes the songs as been relative to the 'land life' in contrast with a previous work of Theodorakis named "Archipelagos" with songs about the sea and the islands. All the CD's songs are considered till today, as inspirational masterpieces, emblems of a whole period, difficult for Greece and its people. Enjoy.

Loukianos Kilaidonis is a very popular Greek songwriter, very famous during the 70's and 80's. His music "talks" directly to people's heart. This rare double CD contains his first two albums, with main singer Manolis Mitsias and with him two top female singers: Vicky Moscholiou and Dimitra Galani. Kilaidonis' tunes are very easy to remember and become immediately familiar. There were periods when all Greece was singing his songs. If we add two bouzouki virtuosi and some excellent arrangements, we can understand why these 2 LPs of early 70's remained till today, among the unforgettable albums in greek musical history. A "don't miss" album for every quality greek music lover.

A tribute of Stavros Xarhakos to Melina Merkouri, the legendary Greek actress (Top Kapi, Never on Sunday etc), singer and political figure. The CD includes 2 songs with the characteristic grainy voice of Melina and 11 excellent bouzouki and orchestra instrumentals, with soloist the unforgettable virtuoso Giorgos Zampetas. An outstanding album of rare beauty by Stavros Xarhakos.

Giorgos Mitsakis (1924-1993) is considered as one of the most important composers of greek rebetika and folk (laika) songs (together with Markos Vamvakaris, Vasilis Tsitsanis and Yiannis Papaioannou). He was a talented songwriter, bouzouki virtuozo and singer and left many hundreds of great songs that remained popular till today. This excellent double CD contains 36 beloved songs of Giorgos Mitsakis with their original interpreters. In all songs, Mitsakis plays his "sweet" bouzouki and offers a unique musical experience. Enjoy a real gem.

Manolis Hiotis (1921-1970) was an incredible bouzouki virtuoso and a great composer with many "timeless" folk songs that are considered as some of the best ever written for bouzouki and voice. With his artistic (and life) partner, Mary Linda, were a very popular duo, with international allure. Hiotis's bouzouki playing was the fastest of all, full of incredible 1/64ths. Mikis Theodorakis, recognizing his unique artistry, used Hiotis in his first great albums. This CD is a happy medley of the 30 most known hits of the unforgettable couple. Bouzouki paradise from a master. A collectors' item in lossless.

One of the greatest greek albums of all times. Poetry and music of Akis Panou at the top of his inspiration, who declares still "Present" by lifting his hand on the unconventional cover photo. Akis Panou was a master in composing "zeimbekiko" dances and track no 3 with the title "The fool" is considered as one of the most beautiful "zeimbekika" ever composed. The singer, Manolis Mitsias, surpasses himself, with an excellent interpretation of 12 difficult songs. Songs that I've heard hundreds of times and still don't have enough. At the last track, Giorgos Zabetas, a great bouzouki virtuoso, is doing "miracles" with his "penies" (bouzouki improvisations). A superb album from every point of view. Enjoy.