The Termites take over the Herod Atticus Theater at the foot of the acropolis on September 16. No, not the eurosocial insects that silently destroy wood, but The Termites of Greece, initially known as the P.L.J. Band, considered by some as the most acclaimed progressive rock scheme ever.

The point of the concert is to introduce younger audiences to “Armageddon”… no, not Armageddon that signals the end of times as revealed in the Book of Revelations, but the revolutionary album released in 1982 that signalled the start of The Termites acclaim – though they were still known as the P.L.J. Band back then.

The band members – Lavrentis Machairitsas (lead vocals, 12-string guitar, keyboards), Antonis Mitzelos (lead guitar, acoustic guitar), Jimmy Vasalakos (bass, backing vocals), Pavlos Kikrilis (rhythm, classical guitar) and Tolis Skamatzouras (drums, percussion) – traveled to Paris in an old Ford with their work recorded on a cassette and hopes of making their dreams come true. Unfortunately, French Polygram wasn’t impressed, so guitarist Kikrilis took the cassette to Warner Studios at the World Trade Center in New York. Following a second international rejection the band looked to the local market. Finally, their album was released by Vertigo.

Being ahead of its times, the music initially received a lukewarm welcome and only 900 albums were sold. This was followed by a wave of notoriety when the album was banned soon after it was released because its lyrics were considered blasphemous. Records were burnt by the hundreds, but thankfully around 300 copies survived and are now sought-after collectors items. These days, fans have to be content with owning CDs from the original LP after progressive German label Second Battle re-released “Armageddon”, unfortunately however the mastertapes were lost.

The sound of “Armageddon” is very unique even by today’s standards. It is a captivating progressive blend of acoustic and electric folk and space rock with a strong psychedelic undertone. There is tension between the acoustic and classical guitars and soaring keyboards.

They will be joined by singer Yiannis Kotsiras who will narrate the story of “Armageddon” and join in the performance.

The concert starts at 9 p.m. with tickets at 15 euros.

And now for a sneak peak…