"ATLANTIS of Philadelphia"

This is the letter Harry Karapalides sent to Dio Dino's, to express his compliments for the bouzouki that Dio Dino custom crafted for him:

"Dear Dino,

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the new, hand-made bouzouki that you created for me. It is fabulous and great to play!  I have had many compliments on its unique looks and, more importantly, its enchanting sound.  The Fret board feels solid and the fingering is very smooth.  My speed and clarity in notes have definitely improved.  As you know, I have other bouzoukees made by other mastores, but never have I felt so 'in tune' with this instrument.  Although the instrument is new, it feels as though I have been playing it for many years.  Your acute interest in the way I play the bouzouki was extremely important in its development. Also, I would like to compliment you on your service.  My other eighteen-year-old bouzouki, which you had rebuilt the entire fret board, is like brand new and I still use it in performing.  You have given it new life.  I also enjoyed the many hours I spent in your store talking to you about the bouzouki, and other topics.   You always made me feel at home.  I will certainly recommend you to anyone interested in purchasing a hand-made bouzouki.

I am happy to hear that you enjoyed the compact disc "Yia sou, Baby!" recorded by my band, Atlantis of Philadelphia, which I sent you last week.  As you know, the title song  "Yia sou, Baby!" is now being played by the major radio stations in Greece, including Antenna, in Thessaloniki.  I will keep you posted of its progress.

Very truly yours,
Harry J. Karapalides"

Click here to listen to a sample of "Yia Sou, Baby"
(.WAV file ~268Kb)