George Klountzos-Chrysidis is a drummer and composer from Thessaloniki, Greece, whose work explores the intersection of jazz and electronic music. Shaped by influences ranging from traditional jazz to house, broken beat, and contemporary experimental music, he has developed a distinctive sound focused on rhythm, texture, and improvisation. After moving to France, he became active in the European jazz scene, performing at festivals such as Nice Jazz Festival, Nuits du Sud, and Jazz à Vienne, while also performing in the U.S., including collaborations in Detroit and New York with saxophonist Diego Rivera and pianist Xavier Davis. Throughout his career, he has worked with artists including Ricky Ford, Nicolas Masson, Craig Bailey, Baptiste Herbin, Robert Lucaciu, Ivo Papasov, and Pantelis Stoikos, among others. He is also a founding member of Yako Trio, known for blending Mediterranean influences with modern jazz aesthetics.
In his latest project and album, Semazen, George explores rhythm as a meditative and transformative experience, merging acoustic and electronic elements through grooves inspired by the Sufi practice of spinning meditation. Described by Resident Advisor as a liberating live experience “where music serves as a common ground for connection and authentic expression,” the Semazen Ensemble creates an immersive space for participation, communication, and collective sonic exploration. The project also features a collaboration with internationally known DJ and producer Byron The Aquarius, who remixed one of the album’s original tracks.