Standing still was not possible when Paleface started the gig and wanted to see all the hands up in the air, of course. However, the physical exercise was not enough for Paleface. In addition to offering an energetic set mainly consisting of material from his two latest albums, he also presented more than enough food for thought with his lyrics addressing freedom of speech, the flipsides of capitalism, development aid and environmental catastrophes just to name but a few of the evils Paleface wants to bring into people’s attention. And he surely has succeeded – the mainly young folks enjoying the gig seemed to have learnt the lyrics by heart. Even though Paleface called for ”Take it personally”-attitude and is serious about the themes touched upon in his songs, the gig was still entertaining and made it possible to enjoy the sunny weather in the best company!
As said, although the songs show the many facets of injustice in the world, Paleface’s message was far from depressing. Instead, he made the crowds sing ”We can do anything” without forgetting the occasional need to ”rellestää”, revel. As proof of the hope, not depression, next to me was a couple who told me they had met in Ilosaari seven years ago and are now considering getting married: ”Who knows, maybe next year in Ilosaari.” If the gig sparked that kind of plans the future definitively looks bright!
Kuva: Nuutti Turkki
