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-

Wild Rocking West

I’ve started my summer vacation.

I guess that might explain why I’m so much behind with all the things I’d need to do. After finishing my first workplace studying period, I’m worn out. I just want to lay underneath a birch tree and enjoy birds singing while clouds sail across the blue skies.

I really do not want to be on a computer now. The only problem is actually starting, as I know I will write something long. But I’m very fascinated on keeping my blog, and this way keeping some sort of “diary” on all the great and funny things that have happened. I know I will enjoy writing as I start.

Now I need to push these past two gigs in here before the next three happenings, which happen so closely to each other, I won’t be able to update them before they’re all done and I get back home. That will include a rock gig trip to Helsinki, a day at Sauna Open Air festival, Tampere, and of course the Sauna Open Air afterparty. This freaking Friday to Sunday will be booked. And I hope I have energy to do two separate updates on those the next Monday.

But first, I need to write down my Starting Summer 2013 quest.
Again it’s all about my favourite boys. Thursday May 30^th Reckless Love was playing in Turku, Apollo Live Club, and Friday the 31^st Santa Cruz was playing in Salo, Keikkamesta. Close enough to each other, so I could combine them in one great rock voyage.

So, let’s start with Turku now.

I know I’ve seen Reckless Love many, many times before, but they still have that something. I really do enjoy their shows. Though some of my friends have somehow “grown over” the band, I’m happy I have not. I think I never will. So the guys will have to put up with me for long time to come. ;)

It’s fun to notice how the guys do recognize familiar faces from the crowd. Even if one is not in the front row. They tend to do some funny faces to the ones they’ve seen before. I think it’s great. That has happened to me many times. Though this time I, my sister and two of our good friends were in the first row, nailed to the stage.

It was a little different for me, as I normally stand in front of Pepe… This time I was close to Jalle, in the other end of the stage. Not where I’d usually be. It was weird to be in such different place. I’m not sure was it just my imagination, or did I see right, but at times I could swear Pepe was a little confused when all of us were so “distant” from him. I kind of felt bad about it, because – well – as much as I love all the guys, Pepe is by far the most important one of them to me.
The show was great. It included the new hit “Night on Fire”, and also “Bad Loving” again, from the upcoming new album. Such great set over all. Oh, I need to tell you this… It is weird how all things affect me during the gig. I was singing along to “Night on Fire”, and didn’t even notice it at first (I had memorised the lyrics without knowing). Then I saw Olli coming closer to me, and I lost the track of the lyrics completely. Olli laughed at me with that super cute grin on his face and walked away. I felt a little embarrassed, but couldn’t stop laughing until the chorus was over.

The whole show was hilarious to see, and be part of. As for me most of the Reckless Love shows are. The only thing that bothered me afterwards was the truth that the guys didn’t take a bow. I’m so used to seeing it when they stop playing: they come to the front and thank the audience and take a big bow. Not this time. I was amazed, and perhaps a little disappointed. Other than that the gig was brought to the audience in the normal high-kicking, positive energy way Reckless Love usually performs. So I have no regrets I went there.

The next day me and my sister headed to Salo, to wait for another rocking night ahead.

I have been to Keikkamesta once before, so it was kind of easy, I already knew what to expect from the place. As we were leaving our hotel, to go to Keikkamesta and wait for the gig to start, Archie and Middy walked past and greeted us. Archie said they’ll be with us soon, and I laughed back that well be waiting. It was funny to notice we were staying in the same hotel. We were the first to enter the club, and had time to pic the perfect place to wait for the gig. As we stepped inside Johnny and Taz waved at us from the backstage before continuing whatever the hell they were doing in the first place.

Some moments before the band hopped on stage Archie, while walking past us again, winced to us that they’ll start soon.  I said we’ll be creeping closer to the stage then, and he laughed at me. The stage was pretty high, I could lean my elbows against the edge. It didn’t take long before they started. All lights were flashing and their energy poured to the audience the minute they started. It was intense.

This evening was full of happenings. At one point I was moving away from Johnnys path, as he made his way to play on the edge of the stage. The next thing I noticed was him jumping off the stage and running across the crowd with his guitar. He did a lap on the floor, and suddenly appeared back on stage from the backstage room. There was a lot going on on the stage the whole time. I don’t think I even noticed all. But that’s the point of it. There is so much craziness, so much joy on what the band is doing, so much energy. This is a band you should see live. They don’t fail, they just go crazy, and go with whatever that’s happening around. Like almost naked men suddenly climbing on stage.

For real, that happened. During the last song (before encore), the band that had played before Santa Cruz, suddenly appeared on the stage – wearing only their underwear. I’m pretty sure it was not planned out, as the Cruz guys were grinning so amusedly. I personally wasn’t that impressed about it, though it gave the show some comical features for sure. I did laugh at it all, but it wasn’t a site to sore eyes. Sorry. However the band pulled it off. They didn’t get spooked about it, they went with it, and with style too. The show continued uninterrupted and sounded badass. I can’t put words on the relief I felt when Santa Cruz came back on stage for encore (and cover) song “Rebel Yell”, and two of the dudes from the other band came along - but with clothes on

(thank god).

I felt good in the audience. The show was superb: High-energy, loud, funny… Awesome. Well done indeed. I had a blast. ;D

Afterwards we were standing near the bar table when Santa Cruz came out from the backstage. They ordered some drinks and we changed a few words. My sister had the nights set list, and we asked the guys to sign it for her. One by one they did, and Johnny even dedicated to her with some cute greetings. It was so fine. We had a chance to chat with all the guys, some longer than others, but… It was super great to finally get to talk with the entire Santa Cruz gang one on one, and separately too.

The next morning we met the guys one more time, when coming to eat breakfast. They were just finishing theirs and getting themselves into their car to continue their trip to Oulu. We changed a few words, and wished them happy travels and great show for the night before they went on their way. It was probably the finest ending to the Starting Summer -quest of ours. I couldn’t have dreamed of a better one.

Summer greetings,

-RW-

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