interview with Dimitris Angelakis: LONG WAY HOME Showcase
- Thanos Sk
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Greek native vibraphonist Dimitris Angelakis began his music journey from a very early age. A journey that started with his first exposure to music from his father and continued with a Fullbright Scholarship, recording and performing in the US (East Coast), exploring the Asia music scene working for a year in China, and playing at large venues and festivals in Europe.
1. Can you tell us about the inspiration behind your upcoming release? How did the
concept for this project come to life?
Dimitris Angelakis: The inspiration behind the album came from deep self-reflection and a desire to express different states of life — from serious decisions to everyday stories — through music. The entire concept was sparked by the poem Ithaca by Konstantinos Kavafis, which deeply moved me. One of the songs on the album, titled Ulysses' Journey, was inspired by that poem. It mirrors my own personal journey so far.
2. How does this release reflect your evolution as an artist? Are there any themes or
messages you’re particularly excited to share?
D.A.: This is my first personal album, and through it, I truly felt like I became part of the music community by sharing something deeply personal. One message I’d love to highlight is that inspiration is all around us — we can create music by drawing from the environment we live in.
3.. Were there any specific musical or non-musical influences that inspired this release?
D.A.: Yes, especially during the COVID period when live music came to a stop, I found myself drawing inspiration from my surroundings. For example, Johnny the Liar is about a guy in my neighborhood known for telling stories, and Murphy — which is slang for a potato — was inspired by a local potato salesman. These are just a few of the non-musical influences. On the musical side, my teachers and mentors played a big role in shaping the album — artists like Joe Locke, Christos Rafalides, Tony Miceli, and many others I studied with during my time in Philadelphia.
4. If you had to describe your upcoming release in three words, what would they be?
D.A.: Self-reflection, motivation, diversity.
5. What does this release mean to you personally, and how does it reflect your journey
as an artist?
D.A.: This release gave me the motivation to keep creating new music. Sometimes, taking that first step gives you the energy for bigger ones — and it all flows naturally from there. In fact, my next album is already in its final stages of composition.
Long Way Home is available to purchase on CD format via our website. Purchase here.
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