Being a musician is not something you do, it’s something you are
Many of us are wildly proud of where we are from, even if it's far from perfect. Our origins can play a fundamental role in making music. The cultural, even historical, features of regions weave their way into creative processes and musical expression. But in what way? Costa Toulantas from Rabbit on the Roof lists lyrical themes, instrumentation, rhythms, and the overall mood of the art made.
Costa was born in the United States. When he was nine, his family moved back to Greece. "Even though my influences took shape in those early years by American radio and TV, my Greek parents submerged us in traditional music." The hallmarks of Greek culture ooze into his musical vocabulary, intentionally or not. "It's the same with my bandmates. No matter what influences us, Greek culture and its sonic landscape dictate how we play and write music."
In 2010, Periklis Kotsidis, Konstantinos Fioravantis and Manolo Alavanos were in a band performing original songs in Greek with the occasional English cover thrown in for good measure. "They knew who I was and had heard my album with Stringtheory from the States. I loved what they were doing with their band." Soon, they became friends out of mutual admiration and started playing shows together for fun. There was no intention of forming a band, but eventually it made sense. Giorgos Eleftherakis joined, and Rabbit on the Roof was ready.
Being a musician in Kos, a tiny, secluded island, has its issues. The same people hear you play. And then there’s the language barrier. "Nearly all of the music you hear is traditionally Greek. People consider anything even slightly different to be outside the box. Underground. There's only a small percentage of people following and supporting English-speaking rock bands, let alone ones that write original songs." On top of that, there are few to no music venues accommodating different genres of music. "When there is no support, it’s difficult to develop as a musician and feel a sense of place."
The sound comes first for Rabbit on the Roof. "A piece of music tells you if you should write a sad or angry lyric." The music for their track Dreamlets was playful and had cheerful vibes. So, It inspired Perklis to write about his children and become a father. Tightrope is about the refugee crisis and witnessing the devastation families endured to wash up on the island’s beaches. "We tried to imagine what it feels like to be in their shoes." Ascension is aggressive, a punch to the gut. It's obsesses with chasing the ultimate high. "That one was fictional. Sometimes it’s autobiographical, and other times it’s just storytelling."
What's the secret to a band staying tight for years? Friendship and a solid bond. They're brothers. "We've become family and are godparents to each other's children. We are friends first and bandmates second. Play music together is the icing on the cake." Due to family-related issues and personal struggles, they'd sometimes leave music on the back burner. But when the moment is right, they jump straight back into it. "Music is a priority in all of our lives. We always try to make time to play because it’s who we are."
Rabbit on the Roof's art isn't specific to any age group. "I think it’s universal and relatable to everyone. Sure, someone with some life experience would probably appreciate our songs more. However, a great melody and a catchy groove will seduce anyone." And with all his wisdom, Costa says involve yourself with music as early as possible but make sure it's for the right reasons. "Being a musician is not something you do. It’s something you are, regardless of success and opportunity. If you are content with that, you will always be happy."