ILOSAARIROCK

This is one of those club members only releases.Thankyou Bonnek for sending me the extra copy you owned. This is a live album from the "Fear Of A Blank Planet" tour in 2007.The band felt this concert at the Ilosaarirock Festival in Finland was one of the best concerts of that tour and since the national radio was professionally recording it, it worked out beautifully. Steven Wilson remixed it at the No-Man studios.

"Intro" is just that a short 2 minute peice mostly of the crowd roaring and clapping before the synths roll in. "Fear Of A Blank Planet" is such a killer tune live and this is no exception. The crowd is really into this one. This sounds so gorgeous after 6 minutes. "Lightbulb Sun" opens with strummed guitar as vocals join in. Love the lyrics for this one. I really enjoy the guitar 2 1/2 minutes in and after 4 minutes. A classic. "Open Car" opens with riffs as the crowd claps with passion. How good is the chorus when it settles: "Hair blown in an open car, summer dress slips down her arms". This one rocks !

"Anesthetize" just brings emotion. I really am falling in love with that album. About time I guess, but it's hearing these songs live in Toronto three times now that's done it. That's what makes this recording so good. "Blackest Eyes" has been a favourite of mine for years. It's dark and heavy early but the chorus is like sunshine isn't it ? "Way Out Of Here" is a song I didn't appreciate until seeing them do it on this tour and now it's one of my favourites. So powerful and emotional. "Sleep Together" opens with the crowd clapping as Steven sings. It kicks in after 1 1/2 minutes as contrasts continue. "Trains" is a classic and words won't justify it. It's the encore song along with "Halo" where they give an energetic finale for the enthusiastic crowd.

Easily 4 stars. It's great to have these live "Fear Of A Blank Planet" songs. Thanks again Karl !