Iron Maiden enthusiasts in Athens, Greece, were eagerly anticipating the live performance of Maiden uniteD at An Club on April 12, 2024. This acoustic tribute project to Iron Maiden is a must-see for fans of the legendary band, offering a unique perspective that appeals to hardcore enthusiasts. The inclusion of Dennis Stratton, the guitarist from Iron Maiden’s debut album in 1980, added to the excitement, drawing a packed crowd to An Club.
by Dimitris Zacharopoulos
photos by Iro Kalligeri (@irokalligeriphotography)
Iliana Tsakiraki, renowned as one of Greece’s premier female vocalists and the frontwoman of Enemy of Reality, delivered a captivating opening performance. Accompanied solely by piano, her acoustic set showcased her remarkable talent. Tsakiraki masterfully interpreted well-known tracks from bands such as Radiohead, Paradise Lost, and System of a Down, interspersed with a selection of Greek folk and traditional songs. Her mesmerizing voice transported the audience to distant, ethereal realms, showcasing a seamless blend of modern and classical singing techniques. Beyond her vocal virtuosity, Tsakiraki poured her heart and soul into each note, eliciting admiration from the crowd for her emotionally charged performances. With thunderous applause, she graciously exited the stage, paving the way for Maiden uniteD’s performance.
The atmosphere in the historic venue was electric as Joey Bruers and Dennis Stratton took the stage, warmly welcomed by the audience, including fellow musicians from the Greek power/prog metal band The Silent Wedding. With instruments in hand, they ignited the Iron Maiden celebration with fervor. The setlist comprised the tracks of the iconic “Iron Maiden” album, along with beloved classics like “Die With Your Boots On”, “Wasted Years” and “The Trooper”. Stratton and Bruers exuded passion and joy throughout the performance, while Marios Karanastasis sang the metal anthems with heartfelt power. Every musician gave stellar performances, creating an unforgettable experience for all. A highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the rendition of “Alexander the Great”, a cherished favorite among Greek Iron Maiden fans. Between songs, Stratton and Bruers engaged in light-hearted banter, adding to the camaraderie on stage. A special moment ensued, when the audience serenaded Bruers’ wife with “Happy Birthday”, complete with candles being blown out onstage. Additionally, Iliana joined Marios for a rendition of “Phantom of the Opera”, enhancing the connection between Iron Maiden’s music and the famous musical.
The evening was a memorable celebration of musical excellence, as we collectively enjoyed the timeless beauty of classic Maiden tunes. The performance by Maiden uniteD, alongside the incredible Iliana and the incomparable Dennis Stratton, was breathtaking. It was a touching and immersive experience that resonated deeply with all Iron Maiden fans present. As we sang along and were swept away by the music, it felt like a dream come true. We hope that this acoustic project will grace Greece’s stages again in the near future, allowing us to relive the magic!
