I’ve always wanted to see Angelos Perlepes live, but I didn’t have the opportunity till some days ago, when Angelo Perlepes’ Mystery played in Piraeus Club Academy. Myth of Rock was there to enjoy this historic band’s concert, which would be supported by NightKill and Valiant Sentinel. A classic heavy metal night was about to begin!
by Dimitris Zacharopoulos
photos by Iro Kalligeri (@irokalligeriphotography)
Around eight o’clock we were already at the music venue, where we would see the three bands live. Not so many people gathered for the event, but that didn’t let anyone down.
The first band of the night was NightKill, the heavy/power metal band of Theodor Martinis. Martinis has a soaring, high-pitched voice, which fits the sound of NightKill that reminds us of acts like Queensrÿche and Dio. Having their debut out recently, NightKill played songs from this first album and didn’t have a problem in warming us the fans. It was a fine show from NightKill, who delivered their songs amazingly – Martinis had some problems with his microphone, but nothing could stop him and the rest of the guys, who had a great time together with the fans!
After NightKill, Valiant Sentinel was set to follow. The band led by Dimitris Skodras stormed the stage and gave us a good dose of its heavy/power/epic metal. Having selected older and newer songs for their setlist, Valiant Sentinel played with passion and raw energy and mesmerized the fans. Of course, Skondras guitar playing was in the forefront, who together with Veandok (vocals) attracted our attention. The grandeur of the music of Valiant Sentinel satisfied everybody, and suddenly we saw a knight on stage – that was a theatrical touch, which added some points to Valiant Sentinel’s live set. Overall, we all had fun with Valiant Sentinel, who took the chance and made a nice presentation of their music.
The headliners of the night were none other than Angelo Perlepes’ Mystery. A name synonymous with neoclassical heavy metal in Greece, Angelo Perlepes and his band Mystery remain among the few artists in the Greek metal scene who have consistently championed this genre. With musical influences that include guitar legends such as Ritchie Blackmore, Yngwie Malmsteen and John Norum, Perlepes has crafted a unique sonic identity. From the very first notes of their set, Mystery hit the stage with explosive energy and contagious enthusiasm. Brimming with adrenaline and a clear sense of purpose, the band performed at full throttle, captivating the audience with a well-curated selection of their finest songs. On vocals, the charismatic Billy Vass proved to be an ideal match for the band’s neoclassical hard rock and metal style. His dynamic presence and fabulous vocal delivery elevated the performance, while his interaction with the crowd added a personal, electrifying touch to the show. At the heart of it all stood Angelo Perlepes, commanding his instrument with the grace and authority of a true maestro. His guitar work was soul-stirring—technical yet expressive and nuanced. It was a masterclass in neoclassical guitar playing, a performance that confirmed his status as a living legend of the Greek metal scene.
This live appearance by Mystery was a celebration of metal, technique, feeling and passion, a historic night that will be remembered by those in attendance. Angelo Perlepes brought heaven on earth; the whole event was an act of good art, truly exceptional!