Patrick Camilleri Becomes European Blues Union Representative
On Thursday, February 6th, Vinyl Paradise’s drummer Patrick Camilleri announced on his Facebook page that he had been appointed as Malta’s representative for the European Blues Union (EBU). The organization, which has been active since the 1960s, is dedicated to promoting blues music and its artists across Europe.
Camilleri expressed his enthusiasm for this new role, stating, "I'm excited to share that I've become the representative for Malta with the European Blues Union, which has been working since the 1960s to promote blues music and its artists across Europe. This will put Malta on the European Blues map and help us connect with neighbouring countries. As a blues enthusiast, I really hope to see more people and artists in Malta getting into this music genre. It would be great to have more young musicians picking up the blues too. Those of you out there who want to contribute feel free to reach out."
The European Blues Union has long been a network for professional blues activists, including festival promoters, tour organizers, agents, specialized magazines, radio DJs, labels, distributors, and clubs. The organization aims to preserve a vibrant and passionate blues scene across Europe.
Historically, blues promoters in Europe have worked independently within their respective countries, unlike in the United States, where the Memphis-based Blues Foundation provides a national support system. Recognizing this gap, a project in Italy took the initiative in 2007 to create a pan-European blues network. This effort led to the first European Blues Conference in Parma, Italy, in June 2008, where over 70 participants from 18 countries gathered to establish the foundation for the European Blues Union.
Since its official registration in Brussels in 2010, the EBU has expanded its influence across the continent. It has organized the European Blues Challenge, an annual band competition held in different host countries since 2013. The event has provided blues musicians from across Europe with opportunities to showcase their talents on an international stage.
Currently, the EBU operates entirely through volunteer efforts, with members from 26 countries. Its chairman, Davide Grandi, is well-known for his work with the Italian blues magazine Il Blues.
Camilleri’s appointment as Malta’s representative marks an important step in connecting the island’s blues scene with the wider European blues community. His new role is expected to bring greater exposure to Maltese blues artists and create opportunities for cultural exchange with other European musicians.
For more details about the European Blues Union, visit https://europeanbluesunion.com/.
Melodija.eu congratulates Patrick Camilleri on achieving another significant milestone in his career.
Masquerade Malta’s Young Stars Set to Rock the Stage
Masquerade Malta announced its upcoming production of We Will Rock You Young@Part, set to feature over 50 young performers in a vibrant adaptation of the West End hit. The show, inspired by Queen’s legendary music, will take place at Teatru Salesjan, Sliema, on April 5th and 6th.
Andre Camilleri to Release New Album ‘Hank Rules’
On February 21st, Andre Camilleri is set to officially release his second album of 2025, titled Hank Rules. The album, recorded at Greasy Pastizzi Studios in Canberra, Australia, features ten songs made famous by Hank Williams.
This release follows Evil Gnome Of Doom Volume 2, which is scheduled for official release on February 15th, though both albums are already available for streaming on Camilleri’s Bandcamp page. The previous album also included a Hank Williams song, Lost Highway.
Reflecting on Hank Rules, Camilleri stated, “Back in the day, I cut my teeth busking many Hank Williams songs on the streets of Valletta. He is still one of the few artists I listen to today. I hope Hank doesn't mind me roughing these pearlers up a bit with plenty of distorted guitars and weird harmonies. Now that I am done with this, I will have to try and write some songs of my own again, arghhh...”
Known as one of Australia’s most prolific songwriters, Camilleri blends Americana, Alternative, and Blues influences to craft his music. Since relocating from Malta to Australia in 2000, he has recorded 81 original studio albums with various lineups in Brisbane, Melbourne, and Canberra.
Despite his vast discography, Camilleri remains dedicated to his craft and continues to chase his ultimate goal: writing the perfect song.
Andre Camilleri on Bandcamp
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