Melrose has always been associated with intense, dynamic live shows and thus Ilosaarirock offered a real treat to the rocking crowd by enrolling the band to play on the Main Stage. A lot of time has passed since their last festival gig, and the gentlemen from Southern Finland blasted away more intensely than ever.
Ville Härkönen, the Main Stage’s host for this year’s Ilosaarirock, introduced the band by announcing that it’s about time to return to the nuts and bolts of rock’n'roll. The field in front of the stage was still half empty, when Tokela (guitar), Jami (drums) and Roger (bass) fired off their guns, and a subtle air of nervousness radiated from the band.
The feeling of nervous anticipation dissipated after a minute and the starting piece Summertime evidently hit the sweet spot, for a mass of people waded in to watch the show, lured by the powerful displays of passionate rock’n'roll. The call was heeded by both older Melrose fans and the newer recruits The crowd admired and respected the band in the time-honoured Finnish manner, by gentle swaying to beat, but without pretension.
Melrose seemed to enjoy playing considerably and after Tokela threw off his shirt, the atmosphere and the gig turned even more intense. The relentless 21-gun-salute to rock finally trailed off in preparation of the grande finale. Tokela teased the audience for a while and treated them with such rock classics as Stairway to Heaven, but the people were not satisfied until they got what they wanted by insistent shouting. Always magnificent, yet fresh sounding Rich Little Bitch concluded the extravaganza and left the festival guests feeling drained.
Text: Mirka Sunimento
Translation: Jari Rytkönen
