World Network, Vol. 46, Greece / Epirus: Petro-Loukas Chalkias & Kompania

Petro-Loukas Halkias is today's top clarinet player in Greece and - in my opinion - the second best of all times, following his uncle Tasos Halkias. This release is an excellent way to enter the traditional music of Epirus. Starting from Miroloi (music played in funerals) and continuing with Skaros and other rhythms, the listener will come in touch with a wide spectrum of the epirot Pentatony, coming from the years b.C. and living till today. If it is your first time, buy it NOW! And look out for his recordings with Ravi Shankaar, a dialog between Greece and India, a dialog between the two most ancient living traditions...

This is a pretty good CD. Petro-Loukas is one of the best Epirus artists today. Though this is a good source of Epirus music, there are definately better out there. The best part of this CD is track #6 "Smandakas". This song is a great song to dance to and makes the whole CD worth buying.

The musicians need to let loose, too anesthetic. Too clean for my taste, I personally like the "live" flavor of Epirus music. Petro-Loukas is one of the top five clarinet players in Epirus.There is definately better Epirus music out there with more of a "folky" feel.