DJ Mario Cotto calls DJ Harvey a “a psychedelic disco wizard, a party Gandalf.” The London-born DJ has been an LA underground stalwart for many years hosting epic warehouse parties among many other things. We asked him to hip us to an artist that influenced his in advance of his appearance at the CRSSD Fest.
My being asked for an influence on my music coincided with the death of Demis Russos, who is one of my musical heroes.
It’s hard to pin down an influence when put on the spot, and so this just jogged me into wanting to celebrate for Demis and his life’s work.
There are multiple YouTube videos of this, one a live performance, one a studio performance, and one a promo video – all the same track, each one amazing.
Genuine Greek Psychodelia from 1969, featuring Demis Russos and Vangelis.
Demis (RIP) was widly unknown in the USA except by the deep disco and psychedelic crow.
He was best known for his hit “Forever and Ever“, which was a huge hit in the UK and heavily referenced in Mike Leigh’s film Abigail’s Party.
Demis was somewhat the subject of ridicule for his style and fashion for some reason. I always thought he was fantastic.
I have a lifelong tribute in my tribute Demis Russos bedside table shrine, it’s the first thing I see in the morning and last thing I see at night.