Antony and the Johnsons (USA) & Joensuu City Orchestra
Antony & the Johnsons and their experimental chamber music combined with art pop and modern chanson conquered the hearts of the entire music-loving world with their second album I Am a Bird Now. Heart-breakingly tender, shatteringly emotional and unarguably brilliant album won the distinguished Mercury Music Prize and brought the name of the band's undisputed frontman, Antony Hegarty, to everyone's lips. Antony's astonishing vibrato and his powerful lyrics about spousal abuse, transsexuality, hope and consolation made him the symbol of not only the decadent side of New York, but also of all haunted souls lost with their identity, at war with the world, in search of something better to believe in. Suddenly, artists from Lou Reed to Hercules & Love Affair wanted Antony to feature on their songs. And for a good reason, too – his voice is truly unique and full of emotion.
Before this summer's Ilosaarirock Festival, Antony & The Johnsons have played three times in Finland, always to capacity crowds. The band's first festival gig in Finland will be a very special one indeed, as they will be joined by Joensuu's own City Orchestra! Antony's otherworldly voice and the band's exquisite arrangements combined with the blare of a real classical orchestra – this must be the most impressive performance that you can experience this festival summer.
