Rock : Unplugged

Oy there!
I'd like to take this time, and share some acoustic stuff with you guys. It's been a while since all these gigs, really, but I wanted them all to be in one. And as no surprise, I bet, this update includes two of my very favorite bands from Finland: Santa Cruz and Reckless Love. So let's rock this one down with them. ;)

The first part actually dates back to, as far as third of May. I went to see Santa Cruz in Tampere, as their "levykauppa ÄX tour", landed there. It was a fine day, and I was happy to see the guys play. I had been waiting for acoustic music for some while, from February I think. So this small gig really came to need.
The guys were 30mins late, because they got stuck in the traffic. But I only found it funny. It was not bad at all. I got some good laughs out of it. And waiting for them was totally worth it. I knew it.
So when the guys had their set on the small, small stage, and started to play I felt totally good. These dudes know how to play. Honestly, they do. I admire how talented they are, given them their young age. I enjoyed the whole gig, and surprised myself by singing along so much. Though I wasn't really singing out loud. I was More like lip-syncing, to avoid bothering others. The show was purely beautiful.
As Santa Cruz was loadin their equipment back to their car, I hanged close and chatted with them a breef moment. They seemd happy about the gig, but in a hurry to go, so I didn't really try to hold them back. I just winked that we'll see soon in Lahti. As they greeted me back with some laughter we said bye, and went our different ways.
It really was such a fine day, over all.

This part two, is also on Santa Cruz.
As I had told the guys, I was going to see them play in Lahti. So it was only few days, and I was on the road again. May the sixth I went to meet up with my friends, to see the band play again. Another acoustic set in Levykauppa ÄX.
It was a little different, as this time just Archie and Johnny showed up. I think they had thought the space would be too small. At least that's how I saw it, as Archie was laughing to Johnny how Middy and Taz would have fit there with them perfectly. They were joking how one of them would have been siting on the record shelf. A joyful start to a two men, two giutars show. ;)

I actually sat down, right in front of Archie, to get away from others view, and catch some funny pictures and videos. The guys laughed at me when I did it. I guess not many sit while watching them. And normally nor would I. I just didn't want to block anyones view. And well, to be perfectly straight, I had a great spot to be in. There was no one on the way, and I could really enjoy the music. The guitars (ah!). It was pure paradise for me.
 I really had good time there. Johnny and Archie were nice enough to play "Sweet Sensation", when I re-quested it from them. It was so beautiful. Usually my wishes go unnoticed, but not this time, and I really appriciate the guys for doing it.
After the last song I got up, and gave the guys hugs. Me and my friends also walked with them a little while, when they were leaving Levykauppa ÄX, to get to their car. It was fun. Just trotting with them, and having some short catch-up going. When we parted, I said we'd see in the release party of their CD, and they were smiling as a respond. A little later they waved at me and my pals for a goodbye from across the road. Such gorgeus guys.

I was supposed to go to Helsinki the next Wednesday to see them... But at that very day I got fever, and was forced to stay home. I was really pissed about it, but I couldn't risk of getting worse while waiting for a bus in the morning hours. Gladly the memory of the acoustic shows helped a little.


And so we get to part three,
and Reckless Love.
This gig actually got me by surprise, but was one I needed to see. Last time I saw Reckless Love play an acoustic set, I didn't have my camera charged (such a mistake!). So this time I didn't want to miss my chances.
It was Friday, May the 17th, and I had had fever the other day, but I went to Kuopio to see this show. I knew it was easier trip than going to Helsinki. I didn't have to go by bus, and leaving was depending on how I felt, not on the busses. So I went. And I actually felt good as sun was beaming down, and weather was over all beautiful.
Reckless Love was playing in Bowl D1ner, and the "stage" was built on the bowling tracks. It looked awefully sick and sweet. I don't think many bands can say they have thrown a show like that.
The gig was great. Really. The guys were having so much fun "re-lyricing" Hot, and listening what the audience wanted them to play. It was lovely to watch them interact like that, and to really have good time doing what they do best, and what they also love to do.
I was sitting down (once again) in the front row, so that all could see pass me. I really had an awesome spot to be in, regardless of the fact, that I was a little low. Even though I was still sick I couldn't be quiet and sit still. Every once in a while the guys made me laugh so hard I could hardly breathe. I had a great time. There is nothing more pertinent cure for me than acoustic guitars. :)
To be honest, I was surprised how friendly the guys were afterwards. Not that they'd usually be hostile, just that they're often in so much hurry, or surrounded by so many admirers... I don't push through to steal their time. But tonight, they really had time for all. Equally. And it was very nice. I think all their fans can appriciate that. And I hope the guys do too. At least they looked like they were having fun chating with their fans, and sharing their time with each one. This is what I really honor in a band, and I'm glad to know these guys have not lost it.

I'm really pleased to say I finally have got some good amount of acoustic music. Though I could never get enough. I'm just waiting for the nex one to pop up, and I'll be running there. ;)
Also I'm really happy about the fact how fancy bands I've found to follow. Santa Cruz and Reckless Love are down to earth still, though they're getting bigger and bigger globaly as we speak. I hope the guys never loose themselves to the crazyness completely. They're just perfect in this semi-finnish way. Not too proud, but not humble either. I think both of these bands will go far. And I really hope they do. They decerve it.

Over and out again,
-RW-

Mayday Mayday Kuopio, can You hear me?

the drummer way of hide and seek

This week I did a trip to Kuopio, the home city of the merry metal band Reckless Love. I went there to spend the mayday (vappu) in the good rocking way of that very band mentioned above. Me and my gals road tripped to Kuopio on Monday, and chilled out on a little vacation, while waiting for the Tuesdays gig.

Kuopios own Lion

On Tuesday evening, when we five gals were in our hotel room, everyone was excited to get ready and go to Henry's Pub to see the show. Everyone but me. I don't know where I lost all my energy. I just felt like staying in and passing this gig, though it was the one thing we planned our vacation on. After all I braved up, and went along anyway.
Henry's Pub was getting growded, as many locals came to see the towns own boys play. We met up with some more good friends of ours, and got our places in the filling pub. I was feeling trapped in the cornertable we were at. For some unexplained reason I was all dull at the same time. I even told my sister I didn't want to go on the floor to see the gig from a better view. I just didn't want all those people around me.

Thunder bass

The show started somewhere between ten and eleven pm. At first it didn't even make me smile. The first real reaction out of me was a confused and shy quick smile to Pepe, when he saw me in the corner and smiled at me funnily puffing air from his mouth (He's weird, isn't he?). I was kind of hiding from the band too, and acting really not-like-myself. I didn't sing along at first, I didn't even scream. I just hanged there, clapping my hands to the beat.

rockjoy on stage

It was like I had too many things in my head and I couldn't concentrate. It took me some time to get in the mood for a show. But after some amazing songs, I just had to smile. I couldn't be a sourface and just gloom around. I started singing and taking some more photos, eventually screaming, even. I felt good. That was what I wanted to do. And this band brought it, even after the deep dark feeling of wanting to run away. The guys were so hilarious on stage. Running around, making funny faces to the crowd, kicking high, sounding awesome.... Not to mention looking okay too. ;) These dudes are so electric and funny and non-stopping. There was no way I could be sad or dull.

At the end of the gig I was really enjoying myself. All was well. But could it end well?

starting HOT with
some catchy beats

My sadness came back after a while, but with the support from my friends I was tyrying to get over it. Ollis wife, Noora, came to greet us and saw the way I was. She asked me if I was okay, and I tried to tell her it was nothing. She didn't really buy it, and later on she really pulled me up from the swamp I was in. With some help from Olli and Pepe, who had time to show me that the band really cares about its fans. Those three made me feel absurd about all this, but I am really glad they were able to share their time with me. It was an unbeleavable experience, and really comforting too. I don't think I can ever thank them enough, for what they said to me. "Just smile. Don't look so grumpy" It was propably the best advice. :D
I was in a little positive shock after that night. All that had happened was so surreal. It felt like a movie. But as Noora told me "It's a movie that's happening to you right now. It's real". And it was the best. I have even bigger respect towards Reckless Love and it's members after this all. And also, now I have proof that I have not been wrong when saying that Noora is beautiful in every way. She is just.. pure awwwwwesomeness. :)

is the growd going wild enough?

On Wednesday me and girls just relaxed. We slept long, went through some gig photos, and... Finally in the evening we went to sauna. I had waited for it. It was around nine o'clock, when we came out and I was admiring the evening sky through the dressingrooms windows. The Sauna area of Sokoshotel Puijonsarvi is like a pent-house. The view was breathtaking. Unfortunately I didn't have my camera on me.

Thank you Kuopio!

At midday on Thursday, we were leaving Kuopio behind and returning to our normal lives. But it had been fun, and all those memories will make me smile for many, many times to come. Though the trip had it downs, I'm way on the positive side. Millions of thank yous and all my gratitude to my friends, and not the least to Noora, Olli and Pepe. After all, I had a great time, and... I'm smiling big!

Keep on smiling you all.
-RW-

Rock of Ages

Whoa! It feels like it's been AGES since I've last been to a real gig. I know some might say it's only been a little over a month - but for me, that has been too long. How come all the bands I'd like to see have not been playing? Other than when I really couldn't go that is. I sure don't know. But I have to tell you: I almost jumped through the roof when I was told Santa Cruz has booked a gig to Tampere. I know I don't have that much money just now, but I just couldn't miss this opportunity. I'm an addict, and the abstinence symptoms were high.

So... After work yesterday, I headed home and took my stuff with me. I had planned it all out, and one hour was just enough for me to get ready. I took a bus to Tampere and went to hang with two of my good friends. I was damn excited about the night, and couldn't really tell the time right. Luckily: my friends told me some funny stories, and it was time to go to "Henry's Pub" before I noticed.
It had been too long since I've seen the Santa Cruz guys. I was hyper as we got to Henry's and couldn't sit still on the couch. Really, even though I knew the guys would be there (as they were playing there - duh!), I almost took fright when I saw Archie in the pub. x)

 I was really glad when the gig finally started at quarter to one am. Hell, those guys were on fire! Tazzy was banging his drums like thunder, Johnnys guitar was screaming high, Middys bass pushed the beat to the bones, and Archies vocals were spot on rough. I like! The guys were having fun, and it showed. I mean.. what helluva night it was. 


Ugh, I feel so excited, after all, it's somehow really hard to write this down. It's like I can't write as fast as my thoughts run, and I really want to tell everything.... I just don't think it would be good. That would be way too long story. :D Do you get my problem here? I'm so rapt about the gig still, I can't make my writing sound fluent! That's the issue now. I really can't have a break from rock concerts for that long again. Especially if I'm not ready for a break.
I need to focus on the highlights now.

Johnny in the crowd

The stage Santa Cruz was playing on, was rather small but the guys pulled it off. They made it seem bigger than it was in reality. Johnny stepped down from the stage, to play in the middle of the crowd a couple of times. And Archie was hanging on the stages "edge", playing his guitar and/or making the crowd yell loud. It was a high voltage, loud and kicking show to say the least. I had so freaking much fun hearing and watching them play. It. Was. Awesome!

Holy hair! :D

Archie "on the edge"

Busted! He saw me :D

 This show was something I've been waiting for. What I have lusted. Now that I had it, I'm thirsty (or hungry, what ever) for more. I am over happy knowing I get to see Santa Cruz in the pre-listening of their new album "Screaming For Adrenaline", the 24th of this month. And that I'll see them twice for sure in the beginning of next month. Yey!


When the guys came down from the stage, and were going to get some drinks, I followed them. I asked if I could get some pictures again. They were happy to give me piece of their time, and I got some nice shots of them and myself. It escalated funnily, when Archie said he'd take a picture of me and Johnny. The guys started to make funny faces to each other and took a couple of shot from themselves. I was standing by, laughing. I mean; what the hell? I understand, it's easy to fall in love with a camera, as the camera loves you back that much, but.. Oh never mind, it was just too hilarious. I had a blast with those two. They're all so... Great! :D
 I really can't thank these guys enough for making my Wednesday so superb!

It is so beautiful.
And yes,
I'm talking about the guitar.

I feel like I'm flattering Santa Cruz to the heavens just now. But can you blame me? It just happened that it was them who saved me from drowning into that non-gig sadness. They've been awesome as long as I've known about them, and they're only getting better. Like wine :D
These guys sure are "Aiming High", and if you ask me... They'll make it big ;)

A little something I got from the gig:
Tazzy's Drumstick
Johnnys Pick
a Pick I found from the stage floor
(wild guess: it's Archies)
and the poster from the pubs window.
(I also have Johnnys setlist)

 Until it's time to rock it again,
RW

(ps) If you didn't know the Santa Cruz album comes out 26th of April!

Crazy greetings from Archie and Johnny <3

Jack's Jam Night

Last night I went to hang at my very favourite bar in Tampere - Jack the Rooster . I had decided I really needed to get there this (24th) sunday. Why? It was the last Jam Night, and Luca Fly was hosting! So there was no doubt it would be an incredible night. A one last hyperenergeticawesomeness before the Jam Nights get to rest a while. At least me and my friends hope they'll come back soon.

I got to tell you guys... I had a blast!
First I need to tell you about Luca Fly! He's such a great dude. I've promised to do a drawing of him, and so I asked him to pose for me last night. So I got some nice shots of him, and I am really waiting for getting my job done. I hope I'll impress him, even half as much as he does me. :D
Lucas hosting is always nice to follow. He is so energetic and positive. He really knows how to handle crowd. It was also great to notice Luca was doing something different with his singing this night. I mean, I've always thought he has a great voice and sings unbelievable well.. but now - after gettig through to "The Voice of Finland", and in Mike Monroes team, Luca's gotten even better. Didn't know it was possible, but he has. He no more does it all so cover-like. You can hear Luca in there. And it was mind-blowing. This dude really has got a voice to impress.

There was also this funny party thing going on. Bartender Lauri was celebriting his birthday and we sang to him with Lucas lead. It was fun! ^^

I also have to mention this female singer, Riikka. She sang two songs, and oh! She's got the groove on so good. I've never heard her before, but was totally shocked how strong voice she has. It was absolutely great. Perhaps the best female singer I've herd in Jack the Rooster ever. She was so good, I forgot to take a picture of her singing. I was too busy feeling the music and having fun! :D

There are two more singers I'd like to share with you.
First up mr. Simo!
Simo is...wooww... I love his way of singing. He always does "Rebel Yell" by Billy Idol. It's every time the one song I'm waiting for. He does it so well. And every time Simo gets called to the stage, I lose it. I just like so much his way of performing and having fun on the stage.

And then, Vesku.
Vesku, Vesku... What can I say. I've only heard him sing like... twice before last night, I think. But he has so fine voice. Yes, him too. I also digg his way of dressing his ass. ;) But umh. Yeah. He's this person, who I always hope to be in Rooster when ever there's singing involved. Perhaps it's because I've seen him so few times, or then there is just something about his voice (I can't put my finger on) that makes me want to hear more. This is one I can't explain why I like so much. He just hits me like a musical fist to my brain. :'D

Lats but NOT the least, I need to mention: the Jam band!
These guys were so funny-amazing again. They were putting their own show on every time they could. Messing a little with familiar guests, and each other of course. So big smiles, so great music. These dudes never let me down. It's always a good thing to see them and even better to hear them play together. It's just pure enjoyment of the music they play, and who they play with.

After the jamming was over I was asking Jaan, the bassist, and Mikko, the guitarist, if I could get a shot of the jam band. Unfortunately some had already left the building (like Elvis), and so I missed my chance. But the guys were friendy enough to promise to send me a picture. So now I'm just wondering what kind of silly awesomness they'll send me. Those dudes really rock! ^^

I just wanted to say - To all those on stage last night at Jack the Rooster - a BIG FAT THANK YOU!

And now, as the jamming is over for a while, we're sitting back and waiting for the face-lift. How do the Jam Night do their comeback when it's the time? I can't wait! :D

Jamming out now. ;)
-RW-

Poikaystävät lavalla? Ô.o

Vihdoinkin on aikaa kirjoittaa tämäkin keikkakokemus blogiin. Uskomatonta miten paljon aikaa voi saada uppoamaan omat on-line portfolionsa tekemiseen. No, nyt sekin on tehty, joten antaa asian olla.

Tämän kertainen päivitys koskee viime lauantain (2.2.) loistavaa rautalankakeikkaa. Jos joku höpsö on tarpeeksi tarkkaan lukenut aiempia päivityksiä, niin osaa jo varmasti arvata mistä bändistä on kyse. Tiettykin se on Lahtelainen the RoadRunners!
Häppeninki oli kaksipäiväinen Rautalankatapahtuma Valkeakosken hotelli Waltikassa. Esiintyjiä siispiisasi perjantaina ja lauantaina, mutta itse hiivin paikalle vasta lauantaiksi - ja parhaasta syystä. Silloinhan (minun mielestäni) paras bändi oli lauteilla.

Ennen RoadRunnerseja korviin hiipi rautalankaa Regentsien ja Periferian muodossa.
Regents -kokoonpanolla oli hyvä  meno, mutta keikka oli vähän katkeransuloinen: yksi soittajista jäi vähän ennenaikaiselle eläkkeelle selkävaivan takia. En kuitenkaan huomannut kyseisen kitaristin lavakarismassa mitään kivuliasta. Esitys oli hauska, yhtenäinen ja mukaansa tempaava.
Periferia toi lavalle naisenergiaa, joka yllätti minut. Kuuntelen ehkä laittoman vähän naismuusikoita, mutta tämä ryhmä pisti huomaamaan, että osaa ne naisetkin. Ja hyvä niin. Rautalanka kaikui ja aivan kuten edellistenkin esiintyjien aikana, tanssilattia täyttyi pareista, jotka toinen toistaan taitavammin osasivat askeltaa Rokkenrollin ja muut hetkeen sopivat tanssit. Tämän esityksen aikana myös Runnersien yksi kitaristi, Saku, kävi tervehtimässä minua ja siskoani. Olimme jo tutut naamat parilta edelliseltä keikalta. ;)

Lopulta ilta yhdentoista aikaan odotus taas palkittiin. RoadRunnersien jätkät alkoivat raivata lavaa omannäköisekseen ja kulkea edestakaisin soitintensa kanssa. Siirryimme siskoni kanssa lavan eteen, jotta saisimme varmasti paremman ja vähän vähemmän sivuluisuisen paikan kuin aiemmin. Meistäkö muka näkyi, että olimme tulleet paikalle juuri tämän bändin takia? Ei kai!

Tähän vaiheeseen sopii selittää myös tämänkertaisen stoorin otsikko. Tarina sen takaa kulkee näin:
Viereeni ilmestyi minulle tuntematon mies, kun seisoimme siskoni kanssa lavan edessä. "Onko tuolla teidän poikakaverit lavalla?", hän kysyi ja osoitti lavalla säheltäviä soittoniekkoja. "Hm? Eeii. Ei sentään", vastasin nauraen. "Eikö? Eli te ootte faneja?", mies jatkoi vähän hämillään. "Joo. Fanityttöjä", vastasin hymyni keskeltä pidätellen tirskahdusta. "Missäs teidän plakaatit ja panderollit on?", mies kysyi. "En mä ehtinyt tehdä sellaisia. Oli vähän koulukiireitä. Mutta ehkä ensi keikalle", vastasin virnistäen ja mies nyökkäsi vastaukseksi. Kun selitin sisarelleni tapahtuneen, hän nauroi:"Onhan ne tavallaan meidän poikakavereita. Poikia, kavereita. Ei vaan siinä merkityksessä kuin joku voisi luulla. Ennemmin kai kaveripoikia?". Saimme tästä melko hyvät naurut. ;D


Keikka itsessään oli mielettömän hyvä. Ei sillä, että olisin siltä mitään muuta odottanutkaan. The RoadRunners vaan osaa iskottaa kaiken sen energian ja soittamisesta nauttimisen niin hyvin lavaesiintymiseensä ja jokaiseen sointuun, mitä ulos pukkaa...etten taida ihan löytää sille sanaa. Se on elämää. Elämänriemua. Hyvää keskenäistä synkkaa ja iloista hauskanpitoa. Vitsailua, vinoilua... Kerta kaikkiaan mahtavuutta. Tällaisen tunnelman takia käyn keikoilla. Näistä jätkistä se välittyy. Ihan kaunistelematta. Minuun se iskee.
Keikka oli täynnä hauskoja sattumia, sanavirheitä, jätkien keskenäistä herjaa, liikettä - ja varsinkin loistavaa musiikkia. Minä nautin olostani, enkä häiriintynyt mistään ympärilläni. Vaikka vieressäni pyörähteli välillä tanssipari ja välillä vaan kuului raikuvia suosionosoituksia, ei mikään vaikuttanut mielialaani miinuksena. Musiikki ja bändin eläminen sen tahdissa veivät minut siihen tilaan, jossa haluan keikalla olla. Jos joku siellä vastaanottimen toisessa päässä ei ole vielä näistä hyypiöistä tietoinen, mutta kiinnostuu suitsutukseni kautta edes vähän, niin helkutti juu! Menkää keikalle. Suosittelen ihan ehdottomasti!

Kun jätkät settinsä jälkeen alkoivat keräillä kamojaan, kyselin olisiko mahdollista saada kuvata heitä myöhemmin. Vastaukset olivat myönteisiä. Siirryimme siskoni kanssa sivummalle, jotta jätkät saivat roudata kamansa rauhassa. Samalla saimme itse kostuttaakurkkumme, jotka olivat vähän käheytyneet huutamisesta.
Jälkeen päin nappasimme kitaristi Sakun ja basisti Arton, joilta utelimme koska kuvia voisi ottaa. Vastaus oli, että vaikka heti. Lähdimme salista, jossa esiintymislava oli ja kävimme jätkien huoneilla hakemassa muun bändiporukan kasaan. Palatessamme ala-aulaan ottamaan kuvia, sain siskoni kanssa serata tämän kokoonpanon keskinäistä hulluttelua ja ilveilyä. Ihan mahtavan hauskaa porukkaa!

Parasta promokuvamatskua

Pysähdyimme ensin kuvaamaan hotellin ovilla, mutta siirryimme myöhemmin biljardipöydän luo. Pöydän päällä oli vihreäkupuinen lamppu, jonka ansiosta osasta kuvia tuli tosiaan melko vihertäviä. Kaikkea sävytystä ei saanut häivytettyä tämän alokkaan kuvankäsittely taidoilla, mutta se ei oikeastaan haittaa kovin suuresti.

Monien vitsien, väärinymmärrysten ja kömmähdysten kautta saimme lopulta hauamamme kuvat ja toivotimme bändin jätkille hyvää yön jatkoa Itse halusimme siinä vaiheessa vain tallustaa omaan huoneeseen ja saada vähän unta palloon. Siskollani painoivat varmaan pitkä ajomatka ja kouluviikko, minulla lähinnä huonot yöunet edellisen viikon ajalta. Uni tuli siis jo tarpeeseen, vaikka olisimme mieluusti jääneet vielä hengailemaan RoadRunnersien kanssa. Tuo porukka on niin loistava, että jäin jo odottamaan seuraavaa keikkaa ja mahdollisuutta vaihtaa kuulumisia ja kuunnella kaikkia niitä piilovi**uiluja. Aivan hyperhauska lauantai-sunnutai yö. Itselläni ei hetkeen ole ollut niin hyvä fiilis, kuin tuona yönä

Mainostan vielä kerran. Jos yhtään rautalanka iskee, niin tässä on ihan mieletöntä osaamista siihen!
Ja tutustukaa "RAMPAGE" albumiin, joka jätkitä ilmestyi viime kesänä. Suosittelen.

"Fanien hakkaaminen on parasta mainosta!" -Saku

Leikkauspöydällä...

Tässä vähän linkkejä, jotta tutustuminen käy helpommaksi ;D

RoadRunners Facebook
Raksun Talli
maininta+ pari biisilinkkiä SurfGuitar101.com :ssa

Tämä musafriikki kiittää ja kuittaa tältä erää!
Keep it rocking!

-RW-