Grey River & The Smoky Mountain at Tamesis Dock

Grey River & The Smoky Mountain is one of the most distinctive and recognizable folk groups based in Athens, with a sound described as contemporary Americana. Their music combines elements of American, Irish, and European folk tradition, incorporating influences from bluegrass, country, and blues, creating a soundscape that bridges different musical worlds and cultures, while also highlighting the connection between the Greek music scene and international creation. The central figure of the group is Rena Papageorgiou, whose voice and presence on the mandolin are a defining element of the band's signature sound. Joining her are Sarantos Goumakos (guitar, vocals) and Tasos Gousetis (violin), forming an ensemble with strong narrative and emotional power.

A band with significant performances on stages and at festivals in Greece and abroad, having also carried out tours and international appearances that have strengthened its reputation as one of the most internationally engaged Greek folk groups.

With their songs in English and a thematic focus on the dark and light sides of the human experience — the divided nature of self, decay, domestic violence, but also hope and rebirth — Grey River & The Smoky Mountain will present a unique live performance in London with a strong narrative character, turning the concert into a complete experiential journey.

About GRis Festival 2026: London, Athens, Berlin
GRis Festival is a festival from Greece dedicated to showcasing young artists and performers who have a fresh and innovative approach to Greek culture and heritage. Having already captured the hearts of expatriates, philhellenes and the public in New York, Nicosia, Athens, and Berlin, the festival continues its international journey, with a firm vision of connecting Greek creators, scientists and academics with the global audience. The festival enhances the international visibility of contemporary Greece, its achievements and its ever-growing cultural influence.

𝗨𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗔𝘂𝘀𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀 & 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝗼𝗳: Ministry of Culture, General Secretariat for Public Diplomacy and Greeks Abroad, Greek National Tourism Organisation (GNTO), Embassy of Greece in Berlin, Embassy of Greece in London, Municipality of Athens, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Museum of History of the University of Athens, Synergia Think Tank, Health Crisis Line, Greek Community of Berlin
𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗮 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗼𝗿𝘀: ΕΡΤ ΕΡΤ3 Voice of Greece - ΕΡΤ World Hephaestus Wien - Österreichisch/Griechischer Integrationsverein