About

"All Greek to Me" is a refreshing and innovative musical ensemble hailing from Bulgaria, blending the rich traditions of Greek music with the intricate nuances of jazz and bebop. Formed in 2023 by the talented Greek singer Sofia Glavopoulou and renowned jazz saxophonist Dimitar Liolev, this band stands out for its unique approach to performing Greek songs from the 50s and 60s, focusing on genres such as rebetiko and laiko. Their work involves reimagining these classic tunes with contemporary jazz arrangements while maintaining the soulful essence of Greek urban song.

The band's music is characterized by the jazz and bebop-inspired arrangements crafted by Dimitar Liolev, offering a fresh perspective on timeless Greek melodies. Their repertoire revitalizes famous songs such as "Thlipsi," "Polles fores," and "Afou to thes," originally popularized by legendary Greek musician Manolis Chiotis, among others. Through their innovative arrangements, "All Greek to Me" brings a novel sound to these well-loved classics, bridging historical musical traditions with modern jazz influences.

The group's lineup showcases a wealth of talent, featuring Sofia Glavopoulou's enchanting vocals, Dimitar Liolev's expert saxophone play, Nikolay Lachev on the bouzouki, Martin Tashev with the trumpet, Stanoslav Arabadzhiev at the piano, Borislav Taslev on double bass, and Stefan Goranov on drums. This ensemble of skilled musicians contributes to the band's dynamic and captivating performances.

Their debut public appearance was at the Station Street Festival in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, on September 5th, marking a significant milestone in their journey. "All Greek to Me" promises to be a noteworthy addition to the music scene, offering audiences a unique blend of cultural heritage and musical innovation through their performances and arrangements. Their approach not only pays homage to the rich history of Greek music but also paves the way for new interpretations and appreciation of this genre in the contemporary music landscape.