In the heart of Athens, at the historic venue of Kyttaro, the Greek rock scene witnessed a spectacular celebration featuring the iconic Mitsos Poulikakos and his big band (Geia sou Taki). I was eager to experience this extraordinary event, which promised not only Poulikakos’s timeless classics but also a night filled with jams, improvisations, and covers. The atmosphere at Kyttaro was charged with anticipation as fans gathered early, ready to immerse themselves in the magic of Greek rock. The evening kicked off with Thee Holy Strangers, an indie Greek rock band that skillfully warmed up the audience with a blend of male and female vocals, coupled with a rich sound and crystal-clear guitars. The seasoned musicians of Thee Holy Strangers set an exciting tone for the night, showcasing their talent and captivating the audience. Next up was Aprosarmostoi 2.1, the rejuvenated formation of Paulos Sidiropoulos’s band. With the release of new songs and a dynamic live performance, Aprosarmostoi 2.1 proved that the legacy of Greek rock continues to thrive. The enthusiastic crowd resonated with the band’s Greek rock stories, reaching a pinnacle of excitement when they played the iconic “Rock N’ Roll Sto Krevati”. Aprosarmostoi 2.1 left the audience anticipating a new album. The moment everyone had been waiting for arrived as Mitsos Poulikakos took the stage. Despite his age, Poulikakos delivered a masterful performance, supported by a big band of more than ten talented musicians. The show unfolded as a music feast, lasting over three hours, featuring Poulikakos’s hits, impromptu improvisations, and soulful covers. Poulikakos, exuding energy and charisma, connected with the audience on a personal level, sharing anecdotes between songs and injecting humor into the night. The atmosphere transformed, making us feel like carefree teenagers, reveling in the passion and dedication Poulikakos poured into every note – but also Poulikakos was a teenager, again! Special mention goes to Manolis Mitsias, whose participation added a touch of brilliance to the performance. The entire evening was a compelling journey through the decades of Greek rock, a manifest of Poulikakos’s enduring influence and musical skill. Mitsos Poulikakos’s live performance at Kyttaro was truly unforgettable – a timeless celebration of Greek rock that will resonate with fans for many, many years. Until the next rock adventure unfolds, the echoes of Mitsos Poulikakos’s music will continue to reverberate in my mind.
Dimitris Zacharopoulos
photos by Iro Kalligeri
