Greece is not immediately associated with Rockabilly and fifties type music and yet I have to admit that one of the best recordings I received this year come straight out of Greece. George and the Hustlers is a band that was formed in 2003, but the real path to the origin of this band leads back to 1988 when George Armeniakos and Yiannis Varias where in the same band the “Blue Thunders”. Thoughts of Regrets is a careful blend of Blues, Country and Western and Rockabilly music. Influences sitting on top of their music are undoable Big Sandy, High Noon and assorted acts, but don’t be mistaken, ‘cause the classics performers are overwhelming present as well. Nine tracks with a vintage sound are included in this debut release. Not all of the songs are originals but the band itself wrote the better part of them. Don’t expect raw rockabilly tunes, but go for the more elegant version with some strollers, sweepers and an occasional rock ‘n’ roll dance tune “Southbound” or “Christine” are impressive self-penned efforts while “Live Fast, Love Hard, Die Young” is a nice Joe Allison cover. Another striking attempt in covering a tune can be found in their version of “Release Me”, original performed by Engelbert Humperdinck. No Sirtaki or other Greek folkdances for these guys, but straightforward rock’n’roll. But what did you expect from a band that opened recently for Chuck Berry! Mr Blue Boogie

Excellent rockabilly music, with a touch of country/western. Great music for cruisin' in my '57 Plymouth Fury!