The artist/ producer Christos DC (aka Christopher Vrenios) was born and raised in Washington, D.C. by parents who sang opera and taught voice professionally. He takes his name from his Greek heritage, using a nickname given to him by his grandmother to represent the lineage that set the tone of his musical path.
“The song Heart Of Gold has always had a special place in my musical journey,” Christos explains. "One of the first song books my brother Nick and I received was Easy Guitar: Neil Young’s Greatest Hits. We were around 10 years old at the time, and I immediately learned how to play the song. Reggae has often been dubbed 'island soul,' so remaking this classic in this genre was a no-brainer. You can go to almost any bar in Jamaica and find a jukebox playing country, the blues, or classic R&B. Roots music is roots music - any place or time."
Christos’ career began in the early 90s producing hip-hop and R&B tracks with indie artists from DC and New York, but it was his deep appreciation for the sounds coming out of Kingston, Jamaica that led him to record with legendary reggae artists Sly and Robbie as well as the Firehouse Crew. He was later recruited by Don Carlos (of Grammy winners Black Uhuru) to tour. He spent several years on the road as Don Carlos' guitarist and backup vocalist, performing in the United States and abroad. During this time, he produced and recorded artists such as the legendary Augustus Pablo, Sugar Minott, Meditations, and Don Carlos (to name a few). He then went on to do session work, playing guitar, bass, and even co-writing with the world-famous Thievery Corporation as well as other groups. In 2008, he released his first full album, Time To Rise," which led him to create the DC-based independent record label Honest Music. His last full length album “Long Road" was released Earth Day 2014 and received with critical acclaim in the reggae realm and beyond. The first single and video "Just Talk To Me" features Kenyatta Hill, son of icon Joseph Hill from the trio Culture.
His latest single "Righteous Chant" finds him reunited with Don Carlos. The song began with a four-track instrumental that Christos played for Don while touring with him back in 1997. Don was inspired by the track right away, and agreed to record it. He added lyrics with a powerful message that stays with you from the first listen. It was placed on an album that was never officially released entitled "Offering," which featured various artists from Jamaica singing over Christos' tracks as well as his solo debut. The song had to be transferred to digital format years later. There are elements of guitars and keys from the world of analog tape; however, other parts are new, which creates a great sonic contrast. Don sings of "coming together in Love and Unity." This is illustrated in the way the song bridges music from the past and present in perfect harmony. "Music is a gift," Christos says. " When we share it, we should consider the effect it will have on others. This is why I make honest music."
"Honest Music proves yet again to be one of the most dynamic and innovative production houses in reggae with Christos DC's remarkable cover of Neil Young's 'Heart of Gold.' Christos' novel reimagination of this classic rock standard is skillfully orchestrated and brilliantly executed, breathing new life into a song well worth reviving." Jah Raver ~ Midnight Raver Blog
"RIGHTEOUS CHANT" continues the royal vein and clear vision that is the imprint and integrity of Honest Music. Christos and Don Carlos have a solid bond that has lasted for decades and that is truly reflected in this instantly engaging Roots anthem. From lyrics to riddim; "RIGHTEOUS CHANT" echoes ancient future and is pertinent for all times. Top levels, top grade.
Robert"Higherman"Heilman ~ Reggae-Vibes
