A camel of rubber
Energetic and, according to the vocalist Varis, hangoverish Kumikameli played to an enthusiastic crowd in a sunny weather. Listeners were aplenty in front of the truck stage. The gig was pretty short, but quite possibly long enough for the musicians themselves…
The band was founded in the 1980’s, and haven’t ever faltered from their unique music or uniform dressing at concerts. This time they were all dressed as sailors.
This reminds me of the times, when everything was still gloomy and strong, wet snow and concrete. These are souvenirs from Mana Mana and Radiopuhelimet, but this is not about nostalgy - the gig is right here and now, even if I refer to a glorious history.
The band has an enjoyable amount of clarity in their music, which stems not from innovations in music, but a venerable core and attitude. Gloomy lyrics combined with a healthy does of self-irony, as both hicks and snobs are mocked.
Kumikameli were enjoyed by a large, but spread out audience. The older members of the audience were enthralled, some of the younger dumbfounded and enthusiasting swinging and jumping. Kumikameli has a great drive.
Text: Terhi Lilja
Translation: Juha Ekholm
Kuva: Markus Korpi-Hallila