Lava Blues Trio – Official Bio (2026)

Forged in the fire of the inaugural Aegean Blues Festival & Challenge on the volcanic island of Nisyros, Lava Blues Trio is a rising international blues force whose sound blends Mediterranean soul, Greek fire and the raw storytelling roots of Melbourne’s electric blues tradition.

Formed as finalist performers at the first-ever Aegean Blues Festival & Challenge—presented by the Nisyros Municipality and the Aegean Blues Appreciation Society—the trio emerged from a landmark event that defied remote geography, unpredictable weather, and limited logistics to ignite a new cultural wave in the region. The debut festival exceeded expectations, sparking new alliances and a surge of international interest, with more than six bands submitting EOIs via audition, interview, and live footage.

The Musicians

🇬🇷 Christos “Voodoo” Koutsogiannis – Drums

Athens-born drummer Christos “Voodoo” Koutsogiannis brings a deep-rooted authenticity to the Lava Blues sound, grounded in both the tradition of the blues and the rich musical heritage of Greece. A respected figure within the Greek blues scene, his playing blends raw feel, dynamic touch, and an instinctive sense of groove that speaks directly to the heart of the music

🇬🇷 Zoi Zioga – Bass
A cornerstone of the Greek blues and roots scene, bassist Zoi Zioga is celebrated for her impeccable timing, deep feel, and melodic phrasing. She has performed with acclaimed Greek artists including Vangelis Bekios (Taxiarcheion), Eleleu, and Simos Kokavesis, earning a reputation as one of the most versatile and tasteful bassists in the region.

🇦🇺/🇬🇷 Kaliopi Stavropoulos – Guitar & Vocals
Born in Melbourne to Nisyrian heritage, guitarist-vocalist Kaliopi Stavropoulos is a Berklee College of Music graduate whose incendiary guitar work and soulful vocals have earned international recognition. Her acclaimed album Devil’s Voodoo Curse cemented her as a force in contemporary blues rock, blending tradition with modern power.

Origins & Evolution

Lava Blues was originally formed as a trio of blueswomen, with Irini Slavik on drums. When Slavik was forced to withdraw due to unforeseen circumstances, the band entered a period of transition that ultimately reshaped its identity. Following an interim chapter, the arrival of Christos “Voodoo” Koutsogiannis on drums has grounded the band in an even deeper sense of authenticity and cohesion.

With Christos locking in alongside Zoi’s smooth, unshakeable groove and Kaliopi’s fiery guitar lines and emotionally charged vocals, Lava Blues has evolved into a tight, soulful, high-energy unit — now unified not only by their shared love of the blues, but also by strong Greek roots and a collective musical instinct that feels both organic and powerful.

What’s Next

Following their success at the Aegean Blues Festival & Challenge, Lava Blues continues to build momentum with performances across Greece and neighboring countries, including their appearance in Poland for the European Blues Challenge (EBC). With new material in development and a renewed sense of identity, the band is carving out a distinctive place on the European blues stage — driven by authenticity, resilience, and a sound that continues to evolve.