Live at Barona Areena, Espoo (January 10th 2015).
Apulanta, the Finnish rock band hailing from Heinola, has been a staple in the Finnish music scene since the early '90s. Known for their seamless blend of punk, rock, and alternative sounds, they've consistently delivered hits that resonate with a wide audience.
"Koneeseen kadonnut," released in 2006, stands as a testament to Apulanta's ability to craft compelling music that delves deep into human emotions. The track, featured on their ninth studio album "Eikä vielä ole edes ilta," showcases the band's signature style-melding poignant lyrics with powerful instrumentation. The song's title translates to "Lost into the Machine," and its lyrics explore themes of loss, regret, and the inexorable passage of time. Lines like "Koneeseen kadonnutta ei voi takaisin saada" ("What’s lost in the machine can never be reclaimed") evoke a sense of irreversible change and the futility of attempting to reclaim the past. The accompanying music video further amplifies these themes, offering a visual journey that complements the song's introspective nature.
Fast forward to January 2015, Apulanta embarked on a monumental venture with their "Kosto kaikista vuosista" ("Revenge for All the Years") concerts at Espoo's Barona Areena. These performances were not just concerts but full-fledged spectacles, celebrating the band's enduring legacy and deep connection with their fanbase. The setlist was a rich tapestry of their extensive catalog, featuring both chart-topping hits and deeper cuts, ensuring an unpredictable and engaging experience for the audience. The arena was electrified, with fans dancing and singing along, their enthusiasm palpable throughout the venue. A particularly memorable moment was the acoustic rendition of "Armo," where the arena transformed into a sea of lights, with fans illuminating the space with their phones and the occasional traditional lighter.
The production was a blend of grandeur and DIY charm. From druid-like figures introducing the band's history to aerial acrobats during "Zombeja," the show was a visual feast. The band playfully incorporated rock clichés, such as deploying multiple cannons on stage-a humorous nod to bands like AC/DC. Toni Wirtanen's ascent to the arena's ceiling during a performance added a touch of theatricality, while the use of radio-controlled airplanes adorned with lights during "Viisaus ei asu meissä" showcased their creativity and willingness to push boundaries.
The concerts also featured guest appearances, most notably the return of original bassist Tuukka Temonen, whose presence added a layer of nostalgia and authenticity to the performances. The meticulous curation of the setlist, combined with the band's dynamic stage presence, resulted in a two-and-a-half-hour journey through Apulanta's musical evolution. The "Kosto kaikista vuosista" concerts were more than just a retrospective; they were a celebration of a band's journey, their resilience, and the unwavering support of their fans.