On Saturday night George Dalaras greeted thousands of his fans at Hisense Arena.

He made it clear that he “loves Australia” and sees it as one of the “most beautiful countries on earth.”

This unique concert was the last of a series in Australia. Dalaras, along with his 13 piece ensemble and other musical friends, played Sydney on Tuesday and Adelaide on Thursday.

This musical journey covers the four decade career of Dalaras; a career in which he has been at the forefront of popular music in Greece.

The fans in Sydney and Adelaide were thrilled with an unforgettable performance by the king of Greek contemporary rebetica, popular and laika music. Dalaras performed a range of his new releases as well as classic hits from the 70s, 80s and 90s.

The Dalara Encore tour is the same which completed a tour of Europe which saw packed houses and concert halls in Amsterdam, Berlin, and Paris.

The concerts in Sydney and Adelaide were as one fan said, “a magical experience.”

It was evident as to why Dalaras is considered as one of the best interpreters of the compositions and lyrics of Mikis Theodorakis, Mano Hatzidakis, Mano Loizos and Yiani Markopoulos. His renditions of these great composers’ songs solicited rapture, standing ovations and what seemed as endless applause from the thousands of fans.

Dalaras himself was in great spirits with a strong voice.

In both recitals he made it clear that he “loves Australia” and sees it as one of the “most beautiful countries on earth.”

Along with Dalaras was the exceptional Melina Aslanidou who shone and the Cretan sensation Michael Tzouganakis. Both inspired the musicians on stage to represent the best of what is Greek music.

Tzouganakis overwhelmed audiences with his deft playing of the Cretan lyra and his amazing textured sounds.

There was also a reception in honour of George Dalaras hosted by the Greek Orthodox Community of Sydney.

The Consul General of Greece Mr Tolios and the president of the Community Mr Danalis thanked Dalaras for his “gift of music” while highlighting his music as a “major contribution to the maintenance of Greek culture in the Diaspora.”