Search - Athenians :: Greek Songs Dance & Rembetiko

Good Vocals & Bouzouki Music

Erika Borsos | Gulf Coast of FL, USA | 04/10/2002

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This CD is definitely good quality Greek music played at restaurants and cafes, what is termed urban popular Greek music, i.e., "just what the tourist asked for". It is not as fiery and passionate as I prefer but excellent singing and playing: yes. If you want to dance a kalamatianos, tsamikos, or zeibekiko: no, can't be done. If you want traditional music with village instruments: look elsewhere, in addition to the bouzouki there are steel guitars, occasional drums and keyboards. No "island music" here. However, many songs are original, written and composed by one of the Athenians who prove to be a very talented group, indeed. I found "M'ena tsigaro" and "The Best of Tsitsanis" very engaging, the first is an original, written by one of the vocalists, the other is the only "rembetika" that I recognize on the CD. Overall, good music for the price. If you're looking for the raw, earthy sound of true "rembetika" --- try the Rounder CD like "Rembetica: Greek Urban Music" or the Markos Vamvakaris from 1930s -1940s, both remakes of original 78 records by the artists themselves. Erika Borsos (erikab93)"

Fun music, skilled musicians

J. Nordstrom | Washington, DC United States | 05/18/2004

(4 out of 5 stars)

"As another reviewer said, this probably is "tourist music," but it's very fun & seems to be mostly authentic Greek folk music, on appropriate instruments. (Except for the last track, where they suddenly bring in a disco beat -- hello??) I only wish these guys wouldn't try to sing -- none of them really has a good voice, though they can carry a tune just fine. To me, it sounds as if the bazouki players are doing double-duty, but I think they should have hired some real singers! Anyhow, all that said, this is a real toe-tapping, fun album & the instrumental playing is great. Several of the tracks are live, and it's overall very worth the money."

My Big Fat Greek Album

M. Ellis | Gulf Coast | 01/07/2008

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Wonderful album of Greek music to liven the spirit and get the feet tapping. You can't go wrong with this one."