When such names as Pearl Jam, Nirvana and R.E.M have all named a band as having huge influence on them, that band is sure to be something special. And if a band has been called “the Beatles of Punk” on … Lue lisää »

Couple of gulls had wandered in to the tent at YleX Stage where Villa Nah was starting their set, probably lured in by their 80s synthesizer sounds. The gulls got a few laughs and smiles, but mostly the smiles were … Lue lisää »

This is it. The first and the last time in Ilosaarirock. Sweatmaster, that magnificent beast of Finnish garage rock, has decided to call it quits after this summer, so those who have not seen them perform and were not at … Lue lisää »

Rento Stage got off to a raucous start. Just moments after The Northern Governors blasted out their first notes the audience, only about a hundred strong, swelled up to over a thousand. After two instrumental numbers the septet grew to … Lue lisää »

The Blanko was the band to kick-start the action on Sue Stage. The band fired solos, riffs and killer choruses at a fast pace but with a modern touch; parallels can be drawn from this Helsinki trio to bands such … Lue lisää »

The greatest thanks for Ilosaarirock’s 40-year existence goes to the people working as volunteers, such as the 3000 people behind this year’s Ilosaarirock. Somewhat surprisingly, the free festival ticket does not seem to be the main source of motivation for … Lue lisää »

The 40th anniversary Ilosaarirock started with a fury, when the rockstar of Finnish rockstars, a living legend, Mr. Michael Monroe himself, took to the Main Stage to kick off the birthday celebrations. Michael isn’t likely to stop rocking anytime soon, … Lue lisää »

It was the third sweaty night in a row at Kerubi’s summer bash; Tuesday was all about leather trousers, Wednesday boasted a relaxed atmosphere and Thursday offered a deeper insight into the Finnish mentality. Relaxed atmosphere On Wednesday, Messenger of … Lue lisää »

There is a saying that it never rains at Ilosaarirock. And so it was that the rain and clouds were long gone, when Rubik let out some sunshine at the YleX Stage.

It’s nearly 12 o’clock. The main gates are a hive of activity, both inside and outside the festival area. Outside, the anxious festival crowd is waiting to be let in, while on the inside, security is getting their last-minute instructions: … Lue lisää »