Love From Corinth: A Timeless Greek Folk Gem That’ll Make You Want to Dance (and Maybe Cry a Little)
Alright, let’s talk about Love From Corinth, this quirky little folk album from 1985 that feels like a warm hug from Greece itself. Released under the Olympia label, it’s one of those records where you can practically smell the ouzo and hear the clinking glasses in the background. It’s not perfect—some tracks are rough around the edges—but that’s what makes it so dang charming.
Now, I gotta say, “Syrtaki” is the track that really stuck with me. If you’ve ever seen Zorba the Greek or been dragged into an impromptu circle dance at a wedding, you’ll get it. This version? It’s got a slower build than most, almost teasing you before it kicks into high gear. By the time the tempo picks up, your feet are already tapping whether you like it or not. It’s impossible not to picture some old taverna by the sea with plates smashing and people laughing. Pure magic.
Then there’s “Maria Me Ta Kitrina,” which hits different. It’s softer, sweeter, kinda melancholic if you ask me. The melody feels like staring out at the Aegean Sea during sunset—beautiful but tinged with a little sadness. Something about the way the vocals linger gives me chills every time. Like, who is Maria, and why does she wear yellow? Is she happy? Sad? Mad at life? The mystery kills me.
The rest of the album has its moments too—“Zeibekikos” brings the drama, while “Ta Pedia Tou Pirea” feels like a love letter to Piraeus kids running wild on cobblestone streets. But honestly, even when the production feels a bit dated (hey, it is 1985), the heart of this record shines through.
Here’s the thing about Love From Corinth: it’s not trying to reinvent the wheel. Instead, it’s celebrating traditions, stories, and vibes that feel deeply rooted in Greek culture. Listening to it feels like stumbling upon someone’s family photo album—you’re peeking into their world, unpolished and real.
So yeah, if you’re into folk music with soul—or just need something to blast while pretending you’re sipping wine on a Greek island—this one’s worth a spin. And hey, maybe don’t overthink it too much. Sometimes music doesn’t need to change your life; sometimes it just needs to make you smile… or teach you how to do a proper Hasaposervico.
Oh, random thought: I wonder if anyone’s ever tried dancing to all these songs back-to-back. Could be fun. Or disastrous. Either way, count me in.
