Growing up in Thessaloniki — a city that has always carried rock in its bloodstream — it was impossible not to be shaped by that sound. The Harley Bar in Ladadika and the hard rock parties hosted by Giannis Zachos, a.k.a. Dr. Love, were more than nights out; they were part of a formative era where music wasn’t background noise — it was identity.

The years moved on, but the connection remained unchanged. Not because nostalgia demands it, but because music has always been the thread running through moments — a record shared, a late-night conversation, a beer over a riff that still hits the same.

So when I was invited to attend a RUNNING WILD tribute at Kyttaro, I didn’t hesitate. But beyond the live itself, what interested me most was the story behind the band bringing those pirate anthems back to life.

That’s how the conversation with Mimis Kanavis of Conquistadors began.

Of all the historic heavy metal bands out there, why did you choose to do a tribute to Running Wild?

This is almost like a joke! So, the first tribute we put together with my brother Vangelis was In Memory…, dedicated to deceased musicians from all across the metal spectrum. At one of our live shows in Ioannina, Harry had the brilliant idea of doing an Iced Earth tribute, which we actually started preparing. Just before we announced our first live show, my friend Giannis Zachos called me and said very clearly, “Mimako, gather your guys — you’re doing a RUNNING WILD tribute.” It was a direct order and a personal whim of Giannis, who also acts as our manager. So we went in aiming for Iced Earth and came out playing Running Wild!

During rehearsals, what challenged you the most?

Rehearsals were relatively easy; nothing in particular gave us trouble. It definitely felt easier compared to In Memory…, where we had so many different songs that we were getting headaches from all the constant changes. The process became even smoother thanks to the guys we play with. Dimitris is an incredible musician — he had all the solos ready from day one. Christos on bass, whose favorite band is unquestionably Running Wild, was completely in his element. And of course Harry, who since getting involved with us seems to be going through a second adolescence!

Ok, serious question…
How the hell do you convince the Tyrant of Jag Panzer to get on stage with you?

Hahaha, easily! We just asked him and he was there! When we were setting up In Memory…, I told my brother I’d send Harry a message to see if he’d like to do 3–4 songs as our guest — and he simply showed up at the studio with a notebook full of lyrics, ready to step in anywhere! Harry has been living permanently in Thessaloniki for years, and he sees this whole collaboration as a great opportunity to stay warm and in shape, since both Jag Panzer and Titan Force are still active. He takes very good care of himself, which becomes obvious the moment he opens his mouth to sing. He’s over 60 and still in exceptional shape! Plus, he’s a kid at heart. We love him dearly and we feel truly lucky to have him with us.

Which track do you throw into battle first — the one that raises the pirate flag from the very first minute?

We always open with the intro “Chamber of Lies,” just like Running Wild do, and immediately after that we invite the crowd to step into the arena — literally: “Into the Arena!”

Do you see this tribute project evolving beyond the live experience? Is there any thought of original material or another next step?

This particular project is meant strictly for limited appearances — definitely two major shows in Athens and Thessaloniki. Unless a great opportunity comes up elsewhere, we’re open to proposals. As for original material, the truth is we’ve discussed it with my brother and Dimitris. It’s in the plan to create something of our own, and we’d definitely want Harry with us on that as well. However, it wouldn’t be in the style of Running Wild — I have something quite different in mind. And if it turns out the way we’re envisioning it, I believe it will be something truly worthwhile. Just a little more patience…

Running Wild aren’t just touring — this may very well be their final appearance at Wacken this year. For many in the metal community, that news wasn’t just an announcement — it was a moment of collective reflection on legacy and the meaning of endurance in heavy music.

With Rockwave confirmed for another summer, fans here in Greece have been quietly wondering what it would mean to witness those pirate flags once more on home soil. Not as a dream, but as a tribute to decades of sound, sweat, and shared stages.

But until then, the spirit doesn’t fade. Bands like Conquistadors prove that heavy metal is not something preserved in glass cases or dusty archives — it’s a living lineage carried from scene to scene, from city to city.

Tonight at Kyttaro isn’t a rehearsal for the past.
It’s evidence of continuity.

So bring your pirate hearts, raise your fists, and remember why we once believed that a few power chords and an unrelenting battle-cry could shake the world.

The battle goes on.

CONQUISTADORS bring the pirate anthems back to Kyttaro, joined by special guests KNIGHTGOST and NIGHT SPECTRE, for a night dedicated to pure heavy metal energy.

📍 KYTTARO Live Venue
📅 Sunday, 15 February 2026
🎟 Tickets: 15€

Doors open at 19:30.

For more updates, follow CONQUISTADORS on Instagram: @conquistadors.2025