Search - The Athenians :: Canto General

Greek Musical Extravaganza

Erika Borsos | Gulf Coast of FL, USA | 03/26/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The first track, "Canto General" is a major musical extravaganza, of huge proportions, a beautiful and creative endeavor, a musical composition by Mikis Theodorakis which combines Greek instruments with Andean flutes. It has extraordinairy lyrical qualities of distinct South American origin based on the work of Chilean poet, Pablo Neruda. The instruments blend flawlessly ... The next track is also by Theodorakis, the music from the movie "Z", sounds very grand, rousing and patriotic. Among my favorites on this CD is "Adelphi mou" ("My brother") which was written by one of the Athenians, D. Polychronis. The music is enchanting with very captivating vocals, great sensitivity and feeling is conveyed by the singer.

The next two pieces are by another famous Greek composer, Stavros Xarhakos, "Tha gini mera ki ya mas" and "sta chronia tou othona" both familiar to me from listening to a 33 1/3 vinyl record that is nearly worn out from wear. So happy to have them both on a CD! "Kessaria" is another favorite because of its melody lines and vocals. There is so much passion and emotion conveyed, it is music that feeds the soul. When I heard, "Foressa Mavra", I could not believe my good luck, at last, I *found*, the song that had me reverently silent, stilled with awe, hearing the fluid melody, the exotic, other-worldy vocals ... the title is translated "I wear black when I am in mourning", suffice to say, must be for someone in love. The Athenians are outstanding musical ambassadors for Greece: talented artists who share the musical wealth of this country. They build upon the rich ancient cultural heritage that includes contemporary compositions as well as traditional folk music. The Athenians combine the best elements of the old and the new on this CD. It is an exalted album which cannot be praised enough, a glittering jewel, a gem to be discovered ...

Erika Borsos (erikab93)"