Translated by: George Vasilakis

"The Circle" is the perfect title to describe the team spirit of John, Michael and Vasilis. All three of them share the same way of thinking as far as the creation of music is concerned. Improvising, communicating, listening, supporting and being entertained are some of the ways by which they create. By putting these words together we have a cycle of harmonies, rhythms, and solos that make these three chaps feel fulfilled and free.

1. John, could you tell us a few words about your relationship with music? How did you get started and how did your relationship with music develop?
I’ve been hooked since school. I was later given a guitar by my parents, which was a substantial start.

2. What kind of music did you use to listen to and what kind do you listen to now?
Rock, Blues, Jazz, the usual course for a guitarist. I look for other forms mainly in Ethnic music - I don’t like this word, but anyway...

3. Name a few records you’ve never got bored of listening to.
I don’t get bored of anything. Every time I listen to something I notice something new.

4. "The Circle" is your second work after "Trip". Tell us how it came about.
After "Trip" Michalis (Evdemon) and I, met Vasilis Kallistridis. We played together for about three months, and “The Circle” came out of the blue.

5. The band’s performance at the second album and at the live you gave at "The House of Art" showed a prevalent teamwork compared to the "Trip". What’s changed?
We now write all together certain things and we all feel for the band. There is substantial communication among us. The "Trip" was musical ideas that had been torturing me since I was nineteen. I simply wanted it to come out and move on. Not that I don’t love its music any longer.

6. Tell me a few words about your associates.
Apart from Michael and I being good friends, we’ve cooperated for four years so far. He is a stunning bass player who improves day by day. Vasilis Kalistridis, is an unbelievable drummer… only 23, came to be a part of the band right when we met. Let me go and study...

7. How did the "Trip" do?
It didn’t go badly. Not that it was a blockbuster.

8. After the "Trip", you signed with Soulincident, who brought out your second LP, "The Circle". What do you expect of your new record label?
Soulincident is a label that tries something new and original…to bring out music! We trust in George Gogas and believe in his efforts.

9. Since it’s clear what audience you address, tell me what this audience is like in Greece.
Limited... very limited.

10. What’s your opinion of the jazz scene in Greece? (As jobs and circle)
I wonder it exists!

11. Should we wait for more live performances soon?
We’ll be playing in small venues associated with the genre.

12. What’s your opinion of the music scenes in Athens?
Thank God they exist... those who do.

13. What advice would you give someone if they wanted to follow in your footsteps?
Hmm, have a pleasant trip, a solitary but nice one.

14. Guitarist or producer?
I don’t think I have adequate experience as a producer... maybe later... but even as a guitarist, I’m still learning.

15. What else should we await from you?
We’ve already started to work on a few ideas with the kids, and after a few live performances, we’ll get down to record our next album.

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