With the power of the word, Joe Bataan
Joe Bataan has had a long day. The 65 year old gentleman had traveled over night from New York to Joensuu and held a full gig at Rentolava’s saturday evening. Nevertheless one can spot a smile on the artist’s face.
- It is always interesting to face new and young audience. The moment when you click with them is pure magic, Bataan comments after the gig.
Bataan brought to Rentolava-stage The Lost Futanos Band which warmed up the audience with few songs before Bataan entered the stage. The entrance was classy and full of love. No signs of cockyness is to be noted, just pure latino charm. Bataan shakes hands with the people in the front row before beginning his show which is a honest and beautiful act. In between Bataan tells the audience stories about his life and the way he found the band.
- You know I found this band in Barcelona. A friend of mine told me that these guys are worth doing work with and I listened to their records and thought why not. When we play together the reaction is fantastic. We share the same energy, Bataan told the Rentolava audience.
Bataan’s show was a interesting mixture of latino and african rhythyms with a hint of urban sound. It forced the people at Rentolava to dance and took them to the smokey streets of Harlem and its famous jazz clubs. The sound mached perfectly with the hazy Finnish summer evening. The atmosphere around Rentolava was universal as Bataan’s husky voice echoed in the beautiful surroundings. Bataan admits that his concerts tend to be sentimental.
- I tell what God has given to me but also urge people to think about their families. I do this everywhere I go. I’ve seen a lot in my life and I know that there is nothing so certain as uncertain. Today you talk to your mother but tomorrow she might be dead. That’s why it is important to tell your loved ones that you love them.
Text: Antti Parkkinen
Pics: Lauri Tujunen