Illusive Mirrors, a band founded and fronted by vocalist Dimitra Koenka, is considered as one of the most promising and most talented newcomers of the Greek rock/metal scene. They are now releasing their debut EP, yet they have already given some nice live shows in Athens. So, when Illusive Mirror’s new live show was announced, I felt happy and was so eager to attend the concert …
by Dimitris Zacharopoulos
photos by Iro Kalligeri (@irokalligeriphotography)
… which would take place at Architektoniki Live Stage in Gazi, Athens. It was the first time at this certain venue and I can say that I was very surprised, when I saw its big hall and the comfortable stage. Illusive Mirrors wouldn’t play alone, as Modulus Zero and Degenerate Mind would open for them.
Modulus Zero is a progressive/art/alternative metal band, which has Margarita Stamouli on vocals as the protagonist. Without losing any time, the Greeks took their place on stage and started their show. They had a good sound, a great mood and played their songs with passion, style and finesse. Margarita’s beautiful singing acted as a lure to the attendants, who liked Modulus Zero and the band’s distinctive music – its songs are based on the catchy guitar riffs and the smart keyboard phrases and sounded fantastic live. I liked all the songs of their setlist, especially “War” and “Unalive”, and of course, their fantastic cover of “War Pigs” (Black Sabbath). Modulus Zero is a band I will watch closely from now on!
Then, Degenerate Mind took the baton and stormed the big stage of Architektoniki. I have seen Degenerate Mind many times in the recent past and I am always fond of their powerful, modern heavy metal. I can say that this time their show was one of their best! Furious and relentless, experienced and mature, they gave a compelling live show, confidently performing some of their best songs, taken from the “B.L.E.V.E” debut and their sophomore album, “Vortex”. I admired Degenerate Mind’s technical prowess, their raw energy, their true feeling, and of course, their perfect bond as a band – they as so solid and tight, they tear everything down. Both sides, the band and the audience, had a great time! Degenerate Mind is a band, which is always improving, thanks to its constant, hard work!
And the turn of the headliners had come! We were all warmed up for Illusive Mirrors, who didn’t waste any time and took center stage. Having their debut EP in their baggage (but not at the merchandise spot, due to some technical problems), Illusive Mirrors started their hard rock/melodic metal show playing full throttle and bringing euphoria to the attendants. Dimitra Koenka was incredible, singing smoothly and dynamically, and had a great communication with the audience. The rhythm section was loud and Dimitris Floros offered us his amazing guitar solos. To this point, I would like to note down, that in my opinion, a second guitar would add to the band’s sound, especially in concerts. Illusive Mirrors played proudly their EP, some new songs that will be part of their upcoming first full-length plus two covers – “Still Loving You” (Scorpions) and “Wicked Game” (Chris Isaak). Listening to all these gorgeous songs, I understood again that the strong point of Illusive Mirrors is their songwriting skill – they know how to compose great songs, how to create real hits, just like “Save a Bullet”, which is their top song, a favorite of both the band and the fans! Everyone in the venue was singing the refrain of this big song together with Dimitra! Illusive Mirrors were again overwhelming, in another stellar performance – they didn’t just delivered the goods, they made this evening a magical one!
As Illusive Mirrors got down from the stage, we were super-satisfied with what we had experienced the last three hours. We enjoyed three astonishing Greek bands, which have a bright future ahead them. I am sure all three of them will surpass all our expectations!