For the fourth consecutive year, we are getting ready for an evening dedicated to BLUES and ROCK guitar. This year’s explosive lineup features three outstanding guitarists: Sakis Dovolis, Babis Tyropoulos and Stefanos Andritsios. Each artist, together with his own band, will perform original compositions and songs from their personal discographies, joined on stage by exceptional guest musicians and vocalists.

As has now become a tradition, our musical giveaways will follow immediately after the event. We will be giving away one Axiom guitar equipped with Gas pickups, courtesy of Music Accessories, as well as one Tune ShredMaster amplifier, courtesy of Zaranikas Music Store.

Come and experience the incredible performances of these talented artists, and let’s all inspire each other through the power of music and the guitar!

November 8, 2026 at Black Temple, Iakchou 17, Athens
Guitar Experience 2026

Doors: 8:30 p.m.
Show starts: 9:15 p.m.

Ticket prices: €12 (presale) / €15 (at the door)

Presale cometogether.live
https://www.facebook.com/templeliveclub
https://www.instagram.com/templeathens

Sponsors:
Prova Music Studios
Guitarspot
Spirtokouto
Telesound
Zaranikas
Kagmakis – Music Accessories
Gas Pickups
Manos Backline

Το άρθρο GUITAR EXPERIENCE VOL. 4 IS GETTING CLOSER εμφανίστηκε πρώτα στο Myth Of Rock.

by Dimitris Zacharopoulos

photos by Iro Kalligeri (@irokalligeriphotography)

It was a show where the audience would be seated, which was quite reasonable considering that Plant’s and Saving Grace’s roots music blends blues, folk, Americana, and gospel. It is music that requires calmness, attention, and even full concentration in order to truly absorb it and get into its rhythm. In any case, since we already had our seats secured, we did not rush at all to enter the Municipal Theatre, which, shortly before nine o’clock in the evening, was already full. After all, we were there — all the fans of classic hard rock — and there were many of us, as befits a concert by the singer of Led Zeppelin!

And yes, a few minutes after nine o’clock, Saving Grace and Suzi Dian appeared on stage, followed by Plant, causing excitement among the crowd, which began applauding warmly. The one and only Robert Plant, humble and smiling, stood before us and sang in a sweet and angelic voice, accompanied by the acoustic foundation created by the other musicians. The moments that followed were beautiful, romantic, full of emotion and positive energy.
What impressed us and made everyone happy was that Robert Plant’s voice was in very good shape and managed to take us on a journey with its lyricism and charm, transporting us to distant and fairytale-like places. The musicians supporting Plant were exceptional and gave their absolute best to create a magnificent musical atmosphere. And they succeeded wonderfully!
The one who stole the show, apart from Plant of course, was Suzi Dian, who also won our hearts with her stellar performance.
That was how a captivating concert unfolded. The audience was deeply moved by Plant’s graceful performance, as he also treated us to plenty of Led Zeppelin moments. We were lucky enough to hear “Ramble On”, “Four Sticks”, “Friends”, “Gallows Pole”, “Black Dog” and “Rock and Roll”, songs that left all of us old-school rock fans absolutely thrilled.
As expected, during the encore, many audience members rose from their seats and quickly made their way to the front of the stage to dance and rock out to “Rock and Roll”. It was the perfect ending to a truly memorable musical event, with the legendary Robert Plant giving his heart and soul on stage while delivering an unforgettable performance for all his fans.
Completely satisfied, smiling, yet pleasantly exhausted, we began making our way down Lycabettus Hill. We had just witnessed a concert that will remain forever etched in our memories and our hearts. Robert Plant is a towering figure in the history of modern music. Those of us who had the privilege of seeing and hearing him that night know exactly why.

Το άρθρο ROBERT PLANT WITH SAVING GRACE AND SUZI DIAN – LYCABETTUS THEATRE, ATHENS, GREECE – 09/07/2026 εμφανίστηκε πρώτα στο Myth Of Rock.

by Dimitris Zacharopoulos

photos by Iro Kalligeri (@irokalligeriphotography)

Upon entering the theatre, we realized that the audience was to be seated in the koilon, while an improvised, flat stage had been set up in the proscenium – and that was exactly where Beth Hart would perform. It was a special setup, one that immediately hinted at a truly special show from the American singer.

At around nine o’clock, Beth Hart made her appearance, greeted by thunderous applause from the crowd, which had almost filled the Lycabettus Theatre. She was visibly excited and in high spirits, and took her place behind the keyboards, which would be her sole accompaniment on several songs. This celebrated lady of the blues opened with a cover of Etta James’ “I’d Rather Go Blind”, astonishing everyone with her fantastic voice. Her own songs followed, along with a cover of Bobby “Blue” Bland’s “I’ll Take Care of You”. Everything came together in a beautiful acoustic setting, in which Hart delivered a vocal masterclass, showcasing the sheer beauty and unique color of her voice, as well as her incredible passion. On other songs, Hart picked up her guitar and continued to move us with her breathtaking performances and acoustic renditions. Later on, she was joined by her two musicians on guitar and drums, and the tempo and intensity naturally picked up.

Beth Hart walked around the stage, sat on the floor and introduced her songs through deeply personal stories, constantly sharing her experiences and emotions. She was delivering an authentic, personal show, connecting with the audience through both music and words. It was also wonderful to see her joking with the crowd and even embracing some of the fans! It is important to point out that Hart often spoke openly about the mental health struggles she faces, as well as her faith in God. It is truly beautiful to see artists of this caliber being so sincere and opening up to their audience in such an honest and heartfelt way.

For the encore, Hart performed three more of her songs, seated at the keyboards with her niece by her side. It was a warm and deeply emotional ending to a truly exceptional artistic performance.

Beth Hart enchanted us once again with a unique show, where blues blended beautifully with rhythm and blues and gospel, creating an unforgettable musical experience!

Το άρθρο BETH HART – LYCABETTUS THEATRE, ATHENS, GREECE – 01/07/2026 εμφανίστηκε πρώτα στο Myth Of Rock.

by Dimitris Zacharopoulos

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Esterházy Palace Park in Burgenland, the festival offers a unique blend of music history and natural beauty. The elegant baroque palace and its expansive green surroundings create an atmosphere that feels both relaxed and majestic. It is the perfect setting for a celebration of timeless music.

Lovely Days has built its reputation by bringing legendary artists from the 1960s and 1970s to the stage, giving audiences the rare chance to experience the pioneers of rock, blues and classic pop in an intimate yet powerful environment. Year after year, fans gather to relive the soundtrack of a generation — songs that shaped culture, defined eras and continue to inspire new listeners.

Lovely Days is a journey through time. It connects generations, uniting long-time devotees with younger fans who want to witness living music history. In the warm summer air of Burgenland, under open skies and surrounded by history, the spirit of classic rock lives on. But let’s see this year’s fantastic line-up!

This one-day classic rock/pop festival features the lineup of the “godfather of shock rock”, the one and only Alice Cooper, the melodic rock legends Foreigner, the prog/classic rock masters Manfred Mann’s Earth Band, the amazing blues/jazz rockers Colosseum, the incredible cover band Clearwater Creedence Revival, the wild things of rock n’ roll The Troggs and The Hans Theessink Band.

ALICE COOPER

Alice Cooper is one of the true legends of rock music. Since the early 1970s, he has shocked, entertained and inspired generations of fans with his dark image and powerful songs. Often called the “Godfather of Shock Rock,” he turned concerts into theatrical events, using props like guillotines, fake blood and dramatic costumes. But behind the horror style, there are great songs and unforgettable melodies. Albums like “Love It to Death”, “Killer” and “School’s Out” changed rock history. Songs such as “School’s Out” and “Poison” are still played everywhere. His voice, half-sinister and half-playful, became his trademark. Alice Cooper proved that rock can be dangerous, fun and smart at the same time. Decades later, he still performs with energy and passion. He is not just a shock rocker — he is a survivor, a showman and a true icon of rock ’n’ roll.

FOREIGNER

Foreigner are one of the most successful rock bands of the late 1970s and 1980s. Formed in 1976 by guitarist Mick Jones, the band created a perfect mix of hard rock power and emotional ballads. With the incredible voice of Lou Gramm, they delivered songs that are still loved today. Hits like “Cold As Ice”, “Hot Blooded”, “Urgent” and the timeless ballad “I Want to Know What Love Is” became radio classics all over the world. Their music is strong, melodic and full of feeling. They could rock hard, but they could also touch your heart. Foreigner sold millions of albums and filled huge arenas. Their sound helped define an era of classic rock. Even decades later, their songs remain powerful and unforgettable. Foreigner are a lasting part of rock history!

MANFRED MANN’S EARTH BAND

Manfred Mann’s Earth Band created a special place in rock history by mixing progressive rock, jazz touches and strong melodies. Formed in the early 1970s by South African keyboard player Manfred Mann, the band became known for its rich keyboard sound and thoughtful arrangements. They are especially famous for their powerful versions of Bruce Springsteen songs like “Blinded by the Light” and “Spirit in the Night”. “Blinded by the Light” became a number one hit and introduced the band to a worldwide audience. But beyond the hits, the Earth Band always aimed for something deeper, with long instrumental passages and meaningful lyrics. Their music feels atmospheric and intelligent, yet still very accessible. Manfred Mann’s Earth Band proved that rock can be both artistic and popular. Decades later, their songs continue to shine with emotion, energy and class.

COLOSSEUM FEAT. CHRIS FARLOWE, CLEM CLEMPSON, MARK CLARKE

 Colosseum belong to the pioneers of progressive rock and jazz rock. Formed in the late 1960s, they brought together powerful musicians who were masters of their instruments. Each member was a strong soloist, yet together they created a tight, rich and adventurous sound. Their double live album “Colosseum Live” (1971) is still seen as a classic. It captures the energy, skill and passion that made the band special. Songs like “Lost Angeles” and the epic “Valentyne Suite” were examples of complex, elaborate rock music. In 2025, original members Chris Farlowe, Clem Clempson and Mark Clarke returned to the stage, proving that the spirit of Colosseum is still alive. With new material from their album “XI” and their classics, they continue to inspire fans. Colosseum are living legends of British rock.

CLEARWATER CREEDENCE REVIVAL

Clearwater Creedence Revival is a tribute band dedicated to honouring the legacy and music of the iconic American rock band Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR). Formed by musicians passionate about recreating the authentic sound of CCR, Clearwater Creedence Revival performs faithful renditions of classic hits like “Bad Moon Rising”, “Proud Mary”, “Fortunate Son” and “Have You Ever Seen the Rain?”. The band captures the raw, Southern rock-infused energy and swamp rock style of CCR, bringing nostalgia to longtime fans while introducing the legendary music to new audiences. Known for their lively, engaging performances, Clearwater Creedence Revival focuses on preserving the timeless appeal of CCR’s music, staying true to the original band’s distinctive style, led by John Fogerty’s signature vocal and guitar sound.

THE TROGGS

The Troggs were one of the rawest and most exciting bands of the 1960s. Formed in southern England in 1964, they helped shape the sound of garage rock with simple chords, strong rhythm and bold attitude. Their biggest hit, “Wild Thing,” became a worldwide anthem, reaching number one in the United States and turning into a rock classic. Songs like “With a Girl Like You”, “I Can’t Control Myself”, and “Love Is All Around” showed their talent for catchy melodies and direct, emotional lyrics. Their music was loud, honest and full of energy. In many ways, The Troggs predicted the spirit of punk rock years before it arrived. From television appearances like Beat-Club to festival stages around the world, they built a lasting legacy. Decades later, The Troggs remain a powerful reminder that sometimes the simplest rock ’n’ roll can be the most unforgettable.

THE HANS THEESSINK BAND

The Hans Theessink Band stands for musical richness and deep feeling. Versatility has always defined Theessink’s career, whether he performs alone or surrounded by great musicians. With decades of experience, he delivers soulful blues and roots music filled with both emotion and technical excellence. His vast repertoire feels like a living archive of American roots traditions, guiding the audience through a joyful journey across blues, rhythm & blues, folk, roots rock and touches of gospel.

In the Hans Theessink Band, he is joined by outstanding keyboardist Roland Guggenbichler, who moves effortlessly between organ, piano and accordion. Adding even more depth, three Zimbabwean singers contribute strong vocals, percussion, movement and vibrant African spirit, creating a colorful and uplifting live experience.

Lovely Days 2026 is already sold-out! The lucky ones who have got their precious tickets shall prepare for an outstanding rock festival, with the aforementioned great line-up, on July 4th, in Eisenstadt, Austria! Myth of Rock will also be there to share with you the astonishing experience!

Το άρθρο LOVELY DAYS 2026 – AN OVERVIEW εμφανίστηκε πρώτα στο Myth Of Rock.

From soul and jazz to blues, rock, and fusion, there are few musical landscapes untouched by Robben Ford’s masterful touch. On his latest single, the brass-laced soul ballad ‘Perfect Illusion’, he delivers a performance that feels both radiant and timeless.

This is the second single to be taken from his upcoming new album, Two Shades of Blue, which will be released on 27 March via Provogue/Artone.

“That was written back in 1999 on my own during a period of writing with Michael McDonald,” Ford says. “I went out to get some air and on the gravel driveway, I saw what looked like a jewel. I look closer and it’s a drop of water, reflecting the light. And I thought: ‘Hah, perfect illusion’.”

Loading into Eastcote Studios with engineer George Murphy, the chemistry is palpable, with Ford’s guitar and vocals leading a first-call band that takes in drummer Ianto Thomas (Mark Knopfler), keys man Jonny Henderson (Otis Grand), bassist Robin Mullarkey (Paloma Faith) and a brass section comprising of Paul Booth (saxophone), Ryan Quigley (trumpet) and Trevor Mires (trombone). “Great cats,” smiles Ford. “London has been incredible for finding musicians. This place is loaded, even better for me than Nashville or LA”.

The album opens exquisitely with the brittle groove of its first single. ‘Make My Own Weather’.. “That’s one of my favourite straight-up, slamming blues things I’ve ever written,” says Ford. “It’s about a guy reclaiming his freedom. I tried to create the rumble of a motorcycle with the rhythm guitar.”

Robben Ford is a man in motion. Scan the five-time Grammy nominee’s back catalogue – a half-century hot streak that darts between jazz, rock, fusion and blues – and you’ll find a musician in a constant state of metamorphosis. Spin new album Two Shades Of Blue – a transatlantic modern classic that shapeshifted as the sessions unfolded – and you’ll feel the risks taken and rules broken. “I have that curse,” smiles the 74-year-old guitarist. “I don’t have two records that sound the same…”

Robben feels at the top of his game right now. Two Shades Of Blue was tracked in the US and UK with two different crack-squad bands. The album also features the incredible talents of bassist, Darryl Jones (The Rolling Stones), Keyboardist Larry Goldings and Gary Husband on drums for the instrumental songs, The Fire Flute, The Light Fandango and Feeling’s Mutual.

From his early days, Ford was a special talent. The 60s saw him backing Mississippi harp wizard Charlie Musselwhite and stretching those skills across Los Angeles with jazz giant Jimmy Witherspoon, before he fell in with the fearless adventurism of saxophonist Tom Scott’s esteemed ’70s fusion outfit, The L.A. Express.

That lineup’s blazing skills saw them recruited by Joni Mitchell for two classic albums (“the most formative two years of my musical life”), before Ford stepped out with rock royalty on George Harrison’s Dark Horse tour. That collaborative streak would continue throughout his career, from Bonnie Raitt to Bob Dylan. “I’m out there on the bandstand and this rocket ship takes off,” he recalls of his mid-’80s debut with jazz talisman Miles Davis. “For my solo, I put my head down and played every note I knew, as fast as I could. I look up, and Miles just goes: ‘Yeah’. And I’m like, ‘OK, he likes it’.”

“I still love to play,” he considers. “I’ve kept writing better music and become more acquainted with what it is to make a record. The fact that I’m all over the place musically has confused some people over the years. But I always need a change. I always want to do something different. And I’ve been that way since the very beginning…”.

Το άρθρο ROBBEN FORD: NEW SINGLE/MUSIC VIDEO RELEASED εμφανίστηκε πρώτα στο Myth Of Rock.

From his early days, Ford was a special talent. The 60s saw him backing Mississippi harp wizard Charlie Musselwhite and stretching those skills across Los Angeles with jazz giant Jimmy Witherspoon, before he fell in with the fearless adventurism of saxophonist Tom Scott’s esteemed ’70s fusion outfit, The L.A. Express.

That lineup’s blazing skills saw them recruited by Joni Mitchell for two classic albums (“the most formative two years of my musical life”), before Ford stepped out with rock royalty on George Harrison’s Dark Horse tour. That collaborative streak would continue throughout his career, from Bonnie Raitt to Bob Dylan. “I’m out there on the bandstand and this rocket ship takes off,” he recalls of his mid-’80s debut with jazz talisman Miles Davis. “For my solo, I put my head down and played every note I knew, as fast as I could. I look up, and Miles just goes: ‘Yeah’. And I’m like, ‘OK, he likes it’.”

“Two Shades Of Blue” was loosely sparked by Ford’s move to London, where his antennae picked up the echoes of a sadly departed British blues-boomer. In the same period, having launched the Robben Ford Guitar Dojo with partner Milam Kelly Roberts, he felt the burning urge to explore the instrument’s outer limits.

“The way this album started, I planned it as a tribute to Jeff Beck,” he recalls. “Meanwhile, the Guitar Dojo had reinvigorated my playing, so writing instrumental music became fresh for me again. I didn’t own a Stratocaster, so I literally went out and bought one for this project. Then Daniel Steinhardt from That Pedal Show put together a new pedalboard for me, along the lines of what Jeff Beck was using. I wanted to do something different, set myself a challenge.”

Loading into Eastcote Studios with engineer George Murphy, the chemistry is palpable, with Ford’s guitar and vocals leading a first-call band that takes in drummer Ianto Thomas (Mark Knopfler), keys man Jonny Henderson (Otis Grand), bassist Robin Mullarkey (Paloma Faith) and a brass section comprising of Paul Booth (saxophone), Ryan Quigley (trumpet) and Trevor Mires (trombone). “Great cats,” smiles Ford. “London has been incredible for finding musicians. This place is loaded, even better for me than Nashville or LA.” The album also features the incredible talents of bassist, Darryl Jones (The Rolling Stones), Keyboardist Larry Goldings and Gary Husband on drums for the instrumental songs, The Fire Flute, The Light Fandango and Feeling’s Mutual.

“I still love to play,” he considers. “I’ve kept writing better music and become more acquainted with what it is to make a record. The fact that I’m all over the place musically has confused some people over the years. But I always need a change. I always want to do something different. And I’ve been that way since the very beginning…”.

Track Listing
1.    Make My Own Weather
2.    Jealous Guy
3.    Perfect Illusion
4.    Black Night
5.    Two Shades Of Blue
6.    The Fire Flute
7.    The Light Fandango
8.    Feeling’s Mutual

artist photo by Rob Blackham

Το άρθρο ROBBEN FORD: RETURNS WITH A NEW ALBUM εμφανίστηκε πρώτα στο Myth Of Rock.

by Dimitris Zacharopoulos

How did the collaboration between singer/songwriters Robin Ross and TW Howell come about?

RR: Met TW in 2017 at the marina in Westport, NY.  We soon formed a band called “A Frayed Knot”.  It only lasted one gig but our friendship went on from there and in the fall of 2024 TW was visiting on a short vacation that turned into a recording EP.

What does the name The TW Howlers mean to you?

RR: An abbreviation for TW, who’s name is Tim, and last name Howell. So we went with Howlers instead and we came up with TW Howlers.  So it became TW Howlers and me, Robin Ross.

What is the biggest strength each of you brings to the band?

RR:  TW is better with the vocals and good with the lyrics, especially for this genre of music.  I’m the composer, writer, engineer, the glue and cement behind it all.  I do sing at times for backups or special voices.

How do you handle creative disagreements?

RR: We each have fly swatters so we can smack each other in the head. Honestly though, we don’t have too much creative disagreements.  That’s one of the things that makes this so easy.

How would you define the music style of Robin Ross & The TW Howlers?

RR: A cross between Rolling Stones with a folk backbone, some fancy electric guitar, good old home cooking vocals.  TW often refers it to folkacbluestic music.

How did you compose the songs of the debut “Back to the Forest” EP?

RR: We wrote them together in the studio, put down some demo tracks, wrote some words then re-recorded the rhythm tracks and built it from there.  After, I went into post production with my Mastering Engineer, Jonathan Duckett or JD.  JD is known in the industry and has worked with such clients as the late David Sanborn, and put the finishing touches on it.

Why did you choose the title “Back to the Forest” for your debut EP?

RR: Back to the Forest is probably one of our stronger songs and has more of a meaning to getting back to your own soul.

Do you see a link between nature and your music?

RR:  Yeah, we wrote the whole album called “Back To The Forest”. LOL I do live in a forest and wrote all of the music in the forest.  My studio, Baa Baa Leaf Music, is in the forest, a nice nature place so it naturally winds up together.

Which song from the EP is the most personal to you and why?

RR:  They are all pretty personal to me.  But if I had pick one, Back To The Forest.  I like the groove and beat.  It’s a lot like the Rolling Stones and there’s nothing wrong with that.

How was the recording and production process at Baa Baa Leaf Music Studios?

RR: Fantastic!  Best engineer in the world!  Super breeze with a super cool mamma in the kitchen.  She does everything & admin work and is like our den mother.  She is also our publisher and handles the administration.

Can you share a fun or surprising memory from the studio sessions?

RR:  Whiskey & Ice started out from a trick I do when your fingers are aching from a live gig or lots of studio.  That’s to put your fingers in a glass of whiskey and ice.  You don’t drink it, just put your fingers in it.  It doesn’t heal you, just makes your fingers numb so you can finish the gig.  You will experience the pain in the morning.  From that it turned into running away from a hurricane in New Orleans.  Go figure!  It dulls the pain.

Robin, how did your early band Jack’s Maze shape you as a musician?

RR: It brought in theatrical elements.  Not just you’re A,B,C chords, if you will.  I had a studio then and was writing constantly.  I’m more of a vibe musician.  Back in the 80’s and 90’s the vibe was Pink Floyd and Led Zeppelin and so on and I think they all made it onto tape in one way or another.  I will say that working with Jack’s Maze made it easier to work with other bands. LOL.  It showed me strong discipline to work with other musicians, but I truly enjoy working with them.

TW, how did your travels across the U.S. influence your songwriting?

TW:  Literally walking and riding all over the U.S. through the years being an artist gypsy, performer type.  I was born in New Orleans, grew up in Florida and NY Adirondack area and spent influential time in Nashville, Chicago, Colorado and just absorbing the music rhythm of people and landscapes.

Both of you have long histories in music – what keeps you motivated?

RR: It’s a music thing.  Half the world has musical ability in one way or another, so it keeps you going.  It’s always the ability to have a new song.

What can fans expect from a Robin Ross & The TW Howlers live show?

RR:  Flying marshmallows!  Bags of them!  Our last show had 4 bags thrown during the song, Marshmellow Blues, which is another song of mine off of The Bluesberry Jam album.

Do you have any tour plans for “Back to the Forest” EP?

RR: We are open to going to England, the southwest portion and the Scilly Islands. Graham Coath told me about a festival or two out there.  And the Isle of Scilly, which is off the coast of England and apparently they play “Whiskey and Ice” about 4 times a day.  We would love to go play Whisky and Ice for them.

Who would be your dream artist or band to share the stage with?

RR:  When I was a kid, I dreamed of being in Black Sabbath.  That morphed into Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd.  My dream artist now would be my own guy, Frank Cinquegrana from Jack’s Maze.  He is the lyricist and composer.  I haven’t been on stage with him in like 30 years.  I think it would be great to be on stage with Jack’s Maze again.

Are you already working on new music beyond this EP?

RR:  Way ahead of you!  I have two albums that are in post production. There is a demo album after that.  I’m not going to do the demo work right now until the other 2 albums are out.  Doing music is a process and it’s a changing process until you work with it the best way it can be.

Looking ahead, what kind of stories or sounds are you most excited to explore next?

RR:  I want to record another EP with TW.  Right now I have a Robin Ross & The Melodynes album coming out, who I also write with Wharton Tiers, and TW is also on that album.  We share musicians between The TW Howlers and The Melodynes and The Bluesberry Jam.  I don’t want to make big of a deal of the The Bluesberry Jam album.  It’s an album with a bunch of misfit songs.  You gotta put them out, sometimes they lead to other discoveries that you never thought possible.  Which has happened. My solo album, Kingdom’s Freedom, was discovered that way in Russia, through The Bluesberry Jam.  The second LP is with Jack’s Maze which will be our second album.

What message do you hope listeners take away from your songs?

RR:  Hang in there.  Try not to sweat the small stuff.  If you do your thing and be good to yourself and the people around you, I think you’ll do alright in this world.  I hope people find a moment of reflection when they listen to a song and maybe it relates to something for them and take some hope for that.

TW: Make sure you put your ears on, kick back with some whiskey and ice and get back to the forest.

Το άρθρο ROBIN ROSS & THE TW HOWLERS – BACK TO THEIR ROOTS (interview) εμφανίστηκε πρώτα στο Myth Of Rock.

by Dimitris Zacharopoulos

photos by Iro Kalligeri (@irokalligeriphotography)

The venue was the Dora Stratou Theatre, located on Filopappou Hill in Athens—a place not commonly used for rock concerts. Still, the organizers believed it was the perfect setting for Fantastic Negrito’s music and energy—and they were absolutely right. We arrived early to get our seats as the crowd slowly began to fill the open-air theater. As the sun set and the sky darkened, the sense of anticipation grew stronger and stronger.

Then, the moment arrived. Fantastic Negrito’s touring band took the stage, and shortly after, he appeared to loud applause. Dressed in his signature hat and loose, reggae-inspired clothes, he began singing and playing his guitar with deep emotion and positive energy. Passionate and soulful, he delivered a powerful performance that mesmerized the audience from the very first note.

He played a well-chosen setlist featuring some of his best songs—an electrifying celebration of rhythm & blues, infused with raw energy and heartfelt emotion. The crowd couldn’t help but move to the groove, many even getting up from their seats to dance! The sound was loud, vibrant and full: booming drums, grooving bass, razor-sharp guitar work, and of course, Fantastic Negrito’s incredible voice leading the charge.

His connection with the audience was genuine and warm. He spoke to us, laughed with us and truly shared his musical journey. It was clear this wasn’t just another gig—it was a shared experience, a musical ritual. Fantastic Negrito paid tribute to the roots of blues while pushing the genre forward with his modern twist.

If I have one tiny complaint, it’s that he didn’t play two of my personal favorites: “How Long?” and “I’m So Happy I Cry”. But honestly, with a performance this phenomenal, that’s just a footnote. The concert ended with a fiery encore, and we all left the theater smiling, energized and inspired.

To sum it all up: this was more than just a concert—it was a true blues celebration, a night of euphoria that reminded us of the power of music. Fantastic Negrito proved, once again, his immense value as an artist. Next time, he should play an arena here. We’d fill it.

What a night. What a show. Wow!

Το άρθρο FANTASTIC NEGRITO – DORA STRATOU THEATRE, ATHENS, GREECE – 22/07/2025 εμφανίστηκε πρώτα στο Myth Of Rock.

We didn’t know it then, but when Moore took the stage for the Baloise Session on November 13, 2008, he was less than three years away from his untimely passing at the age of 58. Yet this very special performance – captured for the Live From Baloise Session reminds us that the guitarist played with untouchable skill and molten soul, right to the end.
It’s hard to imagine a finer showcase for Moore’s cask-seasoned talent than Baloise Session. Far from the mud and melee of a traditional festival, the event held in Basel, Switzerland – formerly known as AVO Session – is an intimate encounter with A-list artists, where discerning music-lovers sit at lamp-lit tables modelled on the vintage after-hours clubs of New York, soaking up the set with no distractions.

From Ray Charles and James Brown to Elton John and Eric Clapton, an invitation to the Baloise Session is the stamp of an all-time musical great – and there’s no doubt that Moore belongs in that number.
Gary Moore at full throttle was simply the greatest spectacle in rock ‘n’ roll. From his formative years out on the boards of late-’60s Dublin with Skid Row, through his ’70s gunslinger shifts for Thin Lizzy – onto an ever-evolving solo career that rewrote the book for blues, rock, metal and more – the Irishman attacked every show like it was both his first and last, shrugging off his hallowed reputation and earning his place amongst the greats all over again.
One setlist could never contain it all. Live From Baloise Session, however, is a fist-tight, fat-trimmed distillation of everything that made Moore the blues master, hitting all the marks you’d hope to see from a late-period live set by this deathless artist.

With no fuss or fanfare, the bandleader – flanked by Pete Rees on bass, Vic Martin on keys and fabled Thin Lizzy drummer Brian Downey – walks from the wings, plugs his Les Paul into twin Marshall stacks and fires up Oh, Pretty Woman (the fiery Albert King cover that was a highlight of Still Got The Blues). As a statement of intent, it’s stinging, and as Moore soothes and strangles his first solo of the night, you’re reminded of Joe Bonamassa’s sage observation: “Gary’s approach to soloing was like placing a brick on a car’s gas pedal — the brick would go down, and he would never stop!”
Strapping on a Gibson ES335, Moore then tears into his own Since I Met You Baby (a spring-heeled groove from 1992’s After Hours, whose studio version featured a guesting B.B. King).
This vintage Baloise Session performance serves as a reminder of all the Irishman did in his lifetime to leave his beloved genre in the best health. The likes of Gary Moore will not come again, but while this deathless music plays, he still walks amongst us, his power undimmed.

Track Listing
1. Oh, Pretty Woman
2. Since I Met You Baby
3. Thirty Days (To Come Back Home)
4. I Love You More Than You’ll Ever Know
5. Don;t Believe A Word
6. Still Got The Blues
7.Walking B y Myself
8. The Blues Is Alright

Το άρθρο GARY MOORE: “LIVE – FROM BALOISE SESSION” TO BE RELEASED IN MAY εμφανίστηκε πρώτα στο Myth Of Rock.