Music man

By Maria Gregoriou

If you are a fan of rocking out to a multi-talented musician, then get ready to gear yourself up for two nights of rhythmic delight with Greek singer-songwriter, composer, performer, director and TV presenter Maraveyas Ilegal (or, as his mum named him, Kostis Maraveyas).

Ilegal will be giving it his all in Nicosia tomorrow and in Limassol on Saturday so pick and choose or go to both if you just can’t get enough of the music.

But before you go tapping away at your smartphone and youtubing into what kind of sounds the man makes, here is a bit of background information, just in case you are asked.

The musician began his music career in Italy where he studied Statistics and Maths at the University of Bari. Sound like an odd introduction? It will all make sense now.

While studying he also took piano and harmony lessons at the Conservatory Niccolo Piccini of Bari. These lessons led him to play with groups such as Yamas and X Darawish, which combine a variety of musical styles.

After these encounters, Ilegal started bringing together Mediterranean and Balkan elements, arrangements and jazz pieces.

In 2001 he returned to Greece to become a solo artist and in 2003 he released his debut album Radiopiratis.

This album was followed by three more, making the musician a name to follow within the Greek music scene.

Although his roots are in underground and alternative music, he is considered a pop star in Greece simply because of his success, but don’t go comparing him with Lady Gaga or anyone like that.

Get ready to see his hands pull on an accordion, his fingers hit the piano keys then strum a guitar as he sings some songs in Greek, some in Spanish and some in Italian.

Maraveyas Ilegal
Live performance from the Greek singer. February 20. Down Town Live, Nicosia. 10pm. Tel: 99-810011

February 21. Raven, 4 Saripolou and Sokratous Street, Limassol. 10.30pm. Tel: 99-614100

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