Corfu Blues Scene

Having written a book called "Corfu Blues", and many articles about the blues, it seemed like high time that I should catch up with some of the blues musicians who live on Corfu.

Since participating in a blues jam at Triklino Vineyard (at the Alternative Panigyri on the evening of 24 May; reviewed by Hilary Paipeti in the June issue of The Corfiot), I have been dusting my own guitar and harmonica, and checking out some of the local expat blues and folk-rock talent. It's mighty impressive- and I think I'm only scratching the surface.

Amongst the great musicians and groups I have heard recently:

Blues Refugees (Raul and Dave)

Blues Latitude (Roy Kendle and friends) at G & M's bar

Lenno and friends at @Home

Matthew Pearl and Dave at Epic

Chris Holmes

The great Corina Kotsoura (Corina Hamilton), who stunned us all at the Triklino jam.

These accomplished musicians deserve a wider audience.

Raul Scacchi has completed his CD "Neuromantics" - songs (not blues!) exploring the nature of modern love. Raul is an experienced and serious composer, as well as a versatile musician, having also set poems by Emily Dickinson.

This was launched at the Alternative Panigyri on May 23, along with the videos produced to "illustrate" or illuminate each song.

Narcissus, from Neuromantics CD (YouTube Video)

Some of us will be performing at a fund-raiser for The Ark (Animal Welfare) on July 27th.

It's really hard to find out what's going on in and around Corfu, and who's playing when and where.

The Music Department at the Ionian University is systematic about circulating emails listing university-related classical and jazz music events to interested people. If it weren't for emails from a few friends, I wouldn't have known about any of these gigs.

I've only just heard that Eric Burdon and the New New Animals will be performing at Corfu Old Fortress on 28 July at 9pm