Destination: On The Rocks, Friday, November 10th, 2023. After a brief pause from the summer live events, the anticipation was high as we geared up to recharge our energy for the upcoming winter. Who better to ignite that spark than the powerhouse band, IKINÄ? Known for their explosive performances filled with positive vibes, they were set to light up the night.
IKINÄ wasn’t the only act of the night; two other bands were on the bill, and we let ourselves be pleasantly surprised by their offerings. IA and VARJOLA set the stage ablaze, each bringing their unique flair and adding layers of musical diversity to the evening. It was refreshing to discover new sounds and vibes, setting the perfect tone for what was to follow. Stepping into the venue, the familiar buzz of excitement filled the air. The break had allowed us to gather our energy, and we were more than ready for an evening of intense musical enthusiasm.
Opening the night was IA, an embodiment of shamanistic traditional sound elements and avant-garde concepts. Their performance was a blend of grooving riffs, otherworldly melodies, and psychedelic atmospheres seamlessly intertwined with heavy metal sounds, creating a truly unique sonic experience. What set IA apart was their distinctive use of UV light, transforming the atmosphere into a mesmerizing landscape. The addition of UV paints elevated the ambiance, contributing to the overall soundscape concept. This fusion of genres was not just refreshing but also intriguing, presenting an innovative blend that captivated the audience’s attention from start to finish.
After IA’s captivating show, it was time for VARJOLA to hit the stage. Their music is modern rock with a dark vibe, and they looked like they stepped out of an ’80s metal band. They were cool but could’ve pumped up the energy a bit more. Still, VARJOLA put on a good show. Their fans were super loud and supportive, showing how much they loved the band’s music. You could tell VARJOLA really connected with their fans. After their set, there was a quick break to get ready for the next band.
IKINÄ stormed onto the stage, immediately infusing the venue with their trademark energy. From the onset with “Rituaali,” Katariina Sorsa and Tuuli Paju joined the band on stage. Their collaborative presence elevated the performance, injecting an added layer of intensity and synergy into the already-charged atmosphere. Together, they unleashed a raw and unrestrained performance, allowing the audience to witness a harmonious fusion of talents, each adding their unique flair to the already powerful music. They grabbed the audience’s attention, setting the pace for an electrifying night.
The band’s setlist was a rollercoaster of emotions and high-powered melodies. Tracks like “Haamukipuja” and “Tie” captivated with their emotive resonance, while the collaboration on “Kohti kuolemaa” with Jaani Helander on cello injected an extra surge of adrenaline into the crowd. As the pulsating rhythms of IKINÄ echoed through the venue, the band not only ignited the crowd with their music but also catalyzed an electric surge in a unique way. Midway through their set, they rallied the audience to create a “wall of death,” a powerful yet exciting moment that split the crowd into two energetic groups, prepared for the upcoming chaos of the mosh pit. The intensity soared with each thunderous beat until the slamming power of “Graniitti” brought the set to an explosive climax.
With the stage left in an uproar of energy and excitement, the band bid their farewell, but the thunderous cheers and fervent chants from the audience echoed for more. Responding to the impassioned calls, IKINÄ returned for an encore, reigniting the venue with “Hattara” and of course with the iconic song “Magic Mike,” and round the end with “Riivaaja.” The bond between the band and their devoted fans was undeniable, a mutual exchange of energy and enthusiasm that transcended the night’s electrifying performance into an unforgettable experience.
Throughout their performance, IKINÄ’s stage presence was magnetic, their passion infectious, and their musical prowess undeniable. But it wasn’t just about the music; it was about the collective experience. Sharing the night with friends and soaking in the varied sounds of each band created an immersive atmosphere that resonated with the audience.
Written by Peter Jerman
Photos by Jarmo Siira
IA Setlist
- Intro
- Higher Power from Below
- The Golden King of the Forest
- Owl with Eyes of Diamond
- IA
Varjola Setlist
- Intro
- Viaton ihminen
- Vapaa pudotus
- Ääriviivat
- Arvoton
- Kova Maa
- Kyynelvirrat (with Tommi Fäldt)
- Fobia
Ikinä Setlist
- Rituaali
- Haamukipuja
- Tie
- Pelkääjän paikalla
- Aarre
- Kohti kuolemaa (with Jaani Helander)
- Leuat
- Minä ja pimeä
- Syvämeri
- Tapa loinen
- Graniitti
Encore:
- Hattara
- Magic Mike
- Riivaaja
