Shine bright Aitoo!

This time it’s all about the oldest summer Festival in Finland: Aitoon Kirkastusjuhlat (or friendlier: “Kirkkarit”). I’m proud to say it’s held close to where I live, and it is rather vivid happening. A whole three days of music and lay-back lifestyle. But I’ll keep this brief(ish). ;)

This update is also a reveal on how different artists I really like.

                                                      

This year I decided to go and spend two days in there. I skipped Saturday, but on Sunday (7.7.2013) Jonne Aaron was playing, and so I needed to go.

Sunday seems to be the quietest day of Kirkkarit, I’ve been told it usually is. It didn’t bother, because that gave me a good opportunity to get closer the stage. And I have to tell you, it was worth it. The songs were beautiful and/or funny, and so was the show. It was great to finally see Jonna Aaron and his band live. There was even one familiar face on stage with him. Jaan Wessman, who I know from all those jam nights of Jack the Rooster, is Jonnes friend and I was thrilled to see them play together. The whole thing was fantastic. After the show was over  I went to buy some fan-stuff: a T-shirt and a blanket. I got such good memories that I wanted something concrete too, other than photographs.

 

I came back to Aitoo the next day (8.7.2013), for the final Kirkkari day. This time I had two acts I really wanted to see. The day started off with Finnish Rapper Cheek, who played for the first time in Kirkkarit this year, and who I really wanted to see.

I’ve had my rap/hip-hop period, and I still like the style. I’m just not as fanatic about it as before. But Cheeks beats and lyrics are something that still hit me. I like that.

The stage area was packed with people when I arrived, so I stayed pretty far from the stage. But it wasn’t a problem.

I saw the gig, and have proof that Cheek and his fellow rappers did notice the crowd from front row to the very back.

In one shot of mine, Cheek himself stares right into my camera. It was superfine to find that shot when I went through them all the next morning. ;) The show was brilliant and the audience was totally feeling it. The energy was intense and my mood stayed in the heights all the way. Have to say I did not get disappointed by that show.

 Meanwhile Popeda and Haloo Helsinki! were playing I was discovering the surrounding area, and talking with some friends of mine that I accidently met on the way. But when clock was turning closer to midnight I decided it was time to head back to the stage. Apulanta would be up soon.

Apulanta is one band that I’ve liked many years, just never had the time to see play live. And perhaps I’ve been too shy to go on their gigs, as they are pretty big name in Finland. But this time, nothing could stop me. And when I was early enough, so that Haloo Helsinki! had just ended their show and it would take another 30mins before Apulanta was on, I was already grapping my spot in the front row. Okay, I was a little too much in the right corner from my point of view, but the central area was already packed by then.

I was still really thrilled to be in the front row. I didn’t see the whole band, but I saw enough as a first timer. The band was really something. They have been playing in Aitoo for 17 years, and they said it’s like coming back home all over again, though they’re not local. I’ve been told they never give such a show anywhere but in Aitoo. I think it’s the bound they have made with the crew that is pulling it all together. And it did show that Apulanta sincerely liked to be back again. For me, it was marvelous, even if my spot wasn’t perfect. I enjoyed every freaking second of the show. It was awesome! I love the fact that I took my time to see them now. It was totally worth it.

Now I have sore throat to witness this all. I hope I won’t catch a summer flu.

Stay beautiful you all!

-RW-

Turku - Unplugged

Damn, this updating is tough for me during the summer :D

Turku acoustic (28.6.2013) was a happening I had never heard of before. This year it was worth knowing though, because Reckless Love was playing a full hour acoustic set in there. So I guess all of you know why I went? ;) To say the least I don't think the venue would have been worth its cost if it wasn't for Reckless Love. The other groups we saw on stage, just didn't do it. It wasn't what I thought it would be. It was just plain ordinary, it didn't touch me at all. If I didn't have my sister and four friends with me I would have fallen asleep during the wait for RL.

Gladly the time passed, and we finally made our way to the stage that was built near river Aura. Reckless Love was slightly late, because they had thrown a show at Rock the Beach in Helsinki before coming to Turku. Not a short drive, so I'm not amazed they were a little late. And the waiting paid off when the Reckless crew climbed on the stage. The guys were way beyond loony. They were going crazy, and all reckless when putting up the show. They were presenting their own songs, but every once in a while they got carried away and ended up singing – or playing – some random song that had poppet to one of their minds as the others were talking. I guess they were a little hyper from the Rock the Beach gig and the fast leaving after it. They didn't have it all under control, but it didn't really matter. That was something unexpected, and so funny, I have to say I had a blast. The whole show was insane! :D

Even though all the songs didn't play out as smoothly as sometimes, it wasn't the first time I've seen these guys freak a little... Well actually this time it wasn't little, but anyhow, maybe you get the picture. This show was so hilarious at its best, I was having trouble to catch my breath every once in a while when laughing so hard. It was exactly what I needed that day, after all the dullness of the previous ones. This just made the guys some funny-ass Kings in my eyes. They were unstoppable and adorable all the time. They even took a curtsey instead of a bow! :D

They had some time after their show, to give autographs and pose for pictures. It was very good of them, as they sometimes tend to be too much in a hurry. This showed they still care of their fan base – at least when a little loony. Olli actually made it clear that he had noticed some “old faces” in the crowd, and came to talk with us himself. It was a pity that the venue had only limited permission to occupy the area, and the security needed to shoo fans away eventually. I'm glad I still had the time to chat with Mitikka, the bus driver / roadie of the Reckless gang. I saw him last in the Sauna Open Air, as he too had come to see Sabaton, so it was great to talk about the gig with him. When I was chatting with Mitikka, I suddenly noticed Pepe walking towards us. He gave me a hug and asked how I was doing. I said I was all fine, and the gig had been crazy, I loved it. I told them both, Mitikka and Pepe that we'd see next during the Kukkaisviikot (“Flower weeks”) of Tampere, as they are playing in Kukkaisrock.

I also shared a tiny secret about that with Pepe, and if all turns out okay, You'll know it too once Kukkaisrock is over. Judging by Pepes expression, he was really pleased of what he heard.

At that moment I noticed that almost all fans were out of the area now, and I said “I think it's time for me to leave, before I get a boot mark in my ass”. Pepe grinned at me, and pretended to kick my ass. I laughed and moved my bag away, and he actually did give me a kick in my ass. I told him I think he had every right to do so, as I have already kicked his ass twice before, and he just laughed at me. I walked out of the area grinning to myself.

getting ready to take a curtsey with the host

It was a hilarious evening, and I thank heaven Reckless Love had that crazy feeling going on all the time. It was refreshing to see them goof around, being so open and happy. It really did warm up my heart.

Until we go crazy again,

-RW-

The beginning of June (part II)

Lazy hot days and bright nights, thunderstorms and the smell of nature at its best. I have forgotten myself in the wild, enjoying this view I see through my bedroom window. Home <3

It’s really relaxing to be at home for this long. No need to think about my graduation for change. But I see that I’ve forgotten some other things too, while becoming one with the wild again. That’s why I’m now sitting here, listening the rain pour softly down outside my open window, and writing. Reminiscing what greatness happened in Sauna Open Air 2013. I think it will take seven days for this text to be released from the writing point. I feel super sloooowww just now :'D

Sunday, the Ninth of June – Sauna Open Air, Tampere

Sauna was great fun to visit. I went with a good friend of mine, and we really had fun. We started with buying the Sauna Open Air T-shirt, which was designed by a friend of ours. Then we walked to the stage nro 2, to see Omnium Gatherum play.

When we got enough of them, we went to hang near the stage nro 1, the main stage. Hard Core Super Star was about to come on, and we decided to watch it from the distance. I also noticed a good, old friend of mine in the audience, and went to greet her before smoothly running to the auditorium to watch the show from the heights. HCSS did play a good gig, and the audience was really pleased.

the moose is loose

After making some evening plans with another friend of mine, then finally we did get what we really were there for. Sabaton. The show was fun, and catchy. I really enjoyed watching it, and now I do understand better why the friend of mine likes them so much. Sabaton got a soft toy moose thrown to the stage, and the lead man was really happy about it “I didn't have one of these before. Thank you”, he said and waved the toy to the audience. Another sweet thing during the gig was this one small fan. The lead singer spotted the little guy from the audience and asked people to let them (with his/her dad) to the front row. He asked how old the little guys was, and the father answered “three”. The band was really impressed that the little fan did come to see them play, and the singer gave his sunglasses as a memory for the kid. It was way too sweet, really. I couldn't stop myself from repeatingly say “aawww”.

the tiny fan

The last show we watched a start from was Volbeat. It was nice to see and hear them play live. We stopped in three different places to watch the show when walking out from the Sauna-area. I was in a hurry to have something to eat before continuing my way to Pakkahuone, and the afterparty. So we grabbed something to eat, and my friend walked me to Pakkahuone, before leaving to head back home. We really had had a wonderful day in Sauna, and I couldn't ask for better company for that night.

 

The afterparties

When arriving to Pakkahuone to meet up with another friend, I was getting a little nervous. Rival Sons were playing there, and I had wanted to see the band live since that friend of mine introduced it to me a little over a year earlier. I went inside, and noticed a merchandising sales table. I made my way to it, as it was totally free of people by then. I watched the T-shirts, CD's and posters for a while. Suddenly a friendly-faced man came to sell the items. He introduced himself as “Pete”, and asked how I was doing. I said I was fine, and laughed a little. He had this funny expression on his face when asking me why do I laugh. “I'm a little nervous”, I replied. “Why are you nervous?”, he asked. “Well, I've never seen this band live, and I really, really like them”, I said with a shy smile. He laughed good-heartedly and said that I shouldn't be nervous because of the band. “You are here, aren't you? Just have fun”,  he added, and I noted at him. We chatted a little while as I was buying some items from the table. I got myself a T-shirt and a poster whit autographs. <3 Then I said “bye” to Pete, who now had some new folks to serve, and turned around just to see my friend appear from the crowd to greet me. He had a friend of his to company us, and we had rather vivid conversation to keep time flying before the Rival Sons gig started.

When finally the band made their way to the stage, I felt unreal. There they were, right in front of me.  I'm still not used to see bands this close, not  when they're from California. It was overwhelming experience, and I was actually shaking. Jay Buchanans vocals were smooth, and completely melted my brain. And seeing guitarist Holiday play so close, it was insane. I had trouble not to lose my mind when one by one they played all my favourite songs. Wild Animal is one that always makes me lose it, whenever I hear it somewhere, and this live time was no different. I just completely LOVE that song. And finally during “Jordan” I started to cry. I don't usually tear up for just a song – oh heck, I don't usually tear up during a gig at all, but... Well this time I just couldn't help it. It was so spot on beautiful and touching. It was unbelievable how beautiful that song was to hear live.

Over all the whole show was a heart attacking experience. Hadn't there been this one drunken male, to punch me with his elbow every now and then, it would have been perfect. But really, I don't have that much negative to say about it. The show was way too magnificent, and the company I had perfectly good. I could have not asked for anything more from that evening. It was close to perfect, with its little minuses. ;)

When the show was over, and the band had thanked us, the audience, we all just started to fade out from Pakkahuone. I'm still not sure should I have stayed, I don't know if the band came out to make appearance in the bar-side... But I decided I was too tired to stay, and a little too shy to stay on my own, as my friend was leaving already. So I went out with some twisted feelings, and after saying good night to the friend of mine, I walked to Jack the Rooster, to meet up with my sister and to see another afterparty.

As I got into Jack the Rooster, to see Luca Fly and the house band play, I noticed that the band Crash Dïet – witch also performed in Sauna open Air – was there to enjoy the afterparty. It was a little weird for me, but it was okay. As long as I needed to have nothing to do with them, I was fine. I was getting so very tired from the long day and all those unfamiliar people around me, I just felt like sitting down, and being quiet. Although I enjoyed Lucas energetic and talented show I just didn't have the energy left to show it all the time. I was ready to fall asleep ASAP I got back home. And I think that's what I did. :'D

my preyers came true

Whoa. It was a day to remember with all those funny little things and happenings not all would understand about. I really had good time though it took everything I had in me to stay focused. I'm happy I had the good music and awesome company to enjoy. All those fine things kept me together, and made it easy to have fun. So a BIG thank you to my friends again. You're the best!
Now I'm just sitting back and waiting for Rival Sons to come back to Finland. I really want to see them again. They were the biggest star of my night.

-RW-

The beginning of June (part I)

Oh-oh, this summer has really stolen me from the world of internet. :D Though I doubt any of you has totally missed me anyhow. So enjoying my summer vacation in my loved countryside of Finland, has not hurt anyone. It’s done good for me, and that’s a fact.
The only regret I have just now, is this: I haven’t been updating my blog, even though I made a promise you’d get this new one in the next Monday after the venues. Didn’t really happen now, did it? Sorry for it. I really can’t explain why it went down like it went. Nothing more to say than …. Well, the Monday, 10^th of June I was exhausted. Too many things had gone down and I had been in too large crowds. I almost slept the whole day through. And then, well, I just haven’t felt like writing. Hah.
But now that I’m here, let’s see what I remember from the beginning of this month.

Friday, the Seventh of June – Trip to Virgin Oil co., Helsinki

This particular trip I did with my sister and two really good friends of ours. I had three gorgeous blonds driving with me from Tampere to Helsinki. ;D

The reason to go to Virgin Oil was clear: Reckless Love was playing. I had good time standing in front of the stage, after a good meal downstairs, and I was laughing really loud with one of my friends at the scene. Though at the end the wait felt too long, and we were all getting a little bored and tired, it was totally worth it. I’m telling you, the show was beyond words. I’ve never seen one so good before. Ever!

As Reckless Love get to the stage they seemed even more energetic than before. They were all having really good time, but I have to admit I think Pepe was enjoying the most. Even though I and my friends were again standing right in front of Jalle, Pepe made it clear he was going to play to us too, and came to greet us many times during the gig. He even noticed when I shook my head to him, to signal that my photo didn’t turn out very good, and came back to pose just for my camera, to ensure I get the pic. He was being totally adorable the whole time.
Jalle was more lively too. He was strutting across the stage to laugh with Pepe or Hessu, whenever he could get pass the high-kicking front man Olli. I got some super cool photos of Jalle, leaning on the speaker in front of him, and showing off his beautiful bass. Also the stage lights made it marvellous to shoot Jalle as he was playing. Some of the shots are just pure rock. And well, I could have not dreamed of anything else. After all, it was the Finnish God of Thunder I was photographing. ;)

Hessu was having a blast behind his drums. There were some moments when I just couldn’t stop smiling at him. He was steaming and loving his drums so though. It was great to see the energy pouring from him like that. Even though I was standing in the kind of spot, that I couldn’t see Hessu that often – because it was easy to the other three to block my view – I got some nice shots of him too. And I noticed him smiling at myself that one time over his drums. That wicked devilish grin he has.

And well, then we have Olli. Olli, Olli, Olli. :D He was loud, he was fabulous, and he was non-stop. It was so great to see him run around the stage, climbing on top of the big speakers, making the crowd scream their lungs out... He was kicking high and did it a lot. I can’t remember when have I last seen him kick and twist so much. He was being such a firecracker the whole time. There were few times he came right in front of me, standing between me and Jalle, being really close to the edge of the stage. A few times I leaned away to back up from him, so that people around me could get better shots. It was kind of funny, being beneath him like that. I couldn’t help but laugh. I’m glad he didn’t lose his balance, because he would have fallen flat on me and one of my friends who was standing next to me.

 

Archie, Middy and
Johnny taking over
Pepes microphone

During the last song they were playing, I noticed Hessu smiling to a funny direction. I looked up, and noticed Archie, Middy, and Johnny from Santa Cruz were climbing on the stage with Lee from Baton Rouge Morgue. I started screaming pretty loud at that point. It was a funny and extremely good treat to mix the pack up a little. All that hair on one stage – it was just so great. I got amazed by Lee, who saw me in the audience, and almost ran to give me a hug. “It’s nice to see you”, he greeted me, before continuing to sing the song with Jalle. I was totally overwhelmed and really impressed. I had met him only once before, but he did remember me. It was super sweet thing, and left a good feeling that hasn’t still worn completely off. It was so unexpected and spontaneous. The crew on stage was grinning big and singing and going all over the place even more for that moment when there were the extra guests too. It was so funny to watch. I think I could have died laughing that night. Way too fine!

Jalle and Lee singing
together

It was pure brilliance to watch the Reckless Love guys bomb the place like that. They blew it up. They were on fire, and they were having so much fun. All that energy couldn’t help but hit the audience in the face and reflect back. I don’t think a sole left that building with a lousy gig experience. How could they have? The show was way too hilarious, groovy, catchy, entertaining, and rocking high!!

Funny I actually wrote “scream their lungs out” at one point of my text. You see, I was singing, screaming, and cheering during this particular gig so loud, I almost puked while one song. It was awful, but it was a sign that I really had been into the gig every second, and gave my all to show it to the guys. I was getting dehydrated and had trouble to stay on my feet when the show was over. I had to wait at least 15 minutes before I could walk across the room to get water.
When I got to the water I saw Archie, Johnny and Middy again. Archie came to greet me and asked how did I like the gig. I answered I think I enjoyed too much, and tried to make him promise Santa Cruz won’t ever make me scream so much I almost puke. He just closed it with “Pretty sick!” and a gorgeous smile, so I think I’ll be in trouble when I get to see that band play live again. Because I know they can bring it. I better get prepared…

When I got back to the stage where “my crew” was still, Pepe came to gather his equipment from the stage. He signalled to my sister, that he’ll be with us when he’s done. And he really came to sit and chat with us, when he was ready. We had a funny and really nice moment with him. That was the thing that really made my evening the best it could be.
We did also have the chance to change some words with Olli and Jalle, as the night was turning into really early morning, and we were hanging at the bar still. I did chat with Johnny, Archie and Lee too. Was really neat to see those guys, and I hope I’ll get to see them soon again. I really, really, really like them, and they’re so great to hang with. My other star of the night (count Pepe as the number one!) was Ollis wife, Noora. I was really happy to see her there, as I had been worried she won’t be there. Gladly she was, and she had the time to talk with me and my sister. I had been missing her pretty much, so it was excellent to finally see face to face again.

I don’t think there was anything so bad in this evening I couldn’t forget it. The show, and all the familiar faces and great, awesome persons I got to hang with…. It was the best night! I was having the time of my life, and I am really pleased I went there. It was most definitely a night I don’t want to forget. Ever.

I would like to say a HUGE THANK YOU to all those crazy rockers, and my entire gang that was there with me that night. It was pure fun and magic from beginning to the very end.

And we even survived back to Tampere!
I love you guys! <3

Sincerely yours,
-RW-