22.04.2013 Eläkeläiset

Bahnhof Langendreer, Bochum (Germany)

(Pentax K-5 with Sigma AF 50-150mm 2.8 EX DC APO HSM II)

Monday evening at the train station Langendreer Humppa was the order of the day as the guys of Eläkeläiset were passing by. The stage scenery: barren. Only two tables with two synthesizers, a few microphones and a drum set. And in the background a reindeer formed out of wire, the band logo.
According to the motto of the tour: "Farewell to Humppa, the 20th anniversary tour" I really hope that the guys are not renouncing the Humppa. Because nothing is safe from them. No matter if it is Pulp or "Run To The Hills" of Iron Maiden. Everything is given a new Finnish lyrics and partially you need some time until you recognize the song which is basis for the Humppa version. But anyhow, because the atmosphere simply was terrific. In front of the stage before each song there was the obligatory "all hands up into the air" until depending on the song it is danced or a pogo pit was opened.
Infected by the good moods the band members were insisting on joining the audience or to climb onto the tables. Unfortunately the poor synthesizer has to leave some keys after somebody danced on it. The nonsmoker protection act was suddenly put out of order on stage and so besides the extensive flowing liquors on request a cigarette was offered. I was just as enthused as the other visitors. 90 sweatening minutes and the good feeling to have heared a really terrific concert! In case these guys are again somewhere nearby this will for sure not have been my last Eläkeläiset concert!