The Helsinki vampire himself is back- along with his band of American vampires. Jyrki 69 is a musical endeavor titled after the front man himself, Finnish Goth rock legend Jyrki (of The 69 Eyes). With an impressive goth n’ roll career that spans almost three decades, Jyrki 69 is no stranger to the world of stardom. His newest artistic adventures come in the form of the solo album Helsinki Vampire, released in June of last year through Cleopatra Records- a record that is coming to life on the MGT + Jyrki 69 West Coast tour.
Making a stop in the illustrious urban San Francisco, California, Jyrki 69 performed at the DNA Lounge in the heart of the city. Joined by incredible musicians Kyle Cunningham on drums (MadLife), Diego “Ashes” Ibarra on bass (Devildriver, Static-X), and Ace Von Johnson on guitar (Faster Pussycat), this quartet is a dark force to be reckoned with. The crowd was packed to the brim in the intimate venue, and the anticipation was quite evident with the fervor at which the audience awaited the dark rockers. Once the lads hit the stage, an enthralling madness ensued with every lady and gent in the venue excitably dancing to the beats.
The set list opened with the Jyrki 69 song “Last Halloween”, followed by “Bloodlust”, off of the Helsinki Vampire record. Melodies that both entice your attention and encourage a dance or two, the live rendition of the music was electrifying. Danzig cover “Twist of Cain” shadowed, proceeded by several The 69 Eyes songs that erupted gleeful cheers from many of the ladies in the crowd. There is always an instantaneous recognition with any The 69 Eyes song, as the music has a catchy hook to it that really ropes you in- and doesn’t let go. The evening continued forth with a clever mix of Jyrki 69 solo songs and beloved The 69 Eyes tunes, sprinkled in with covers of The Doors, The Ramones, and The Sisters of Mercy.
Beyond that of the song selections, the performance itself is worthy of notability. Jyrki’s vocals immediately capture your attention with deep, edgy singing reminiscent of an entirely different time in rock history. Partner that with a grand stage presence and an immaculate performance style, and you have the perfect formula for a delightful evening. Bellowing out deep, brooding, and romantic vocals to the crowd below, Jyrki could often be caught leaning in very close to the adoring fans below his feet. Percussionist Kyle Cunningham had a dandy time behind his kit, playing with a thrilling passion that could shake an entire room in an instant. You could feel the energy radiating! Bassist Ashes was constantly haloed by the blue light behind him, casting both a beautiful and dramatic light all around his performance. Absolutely rocking out on bass, Ashes never ceases to impress the crowd with his years of built skill and a natural affinity for musicianship. Last but certainly not least, Ace Von Johnson rocked an epic goth n’ roll cowboy hat during his spectacular performance on guitar- both entertaining and exhilarating the concert-goers.
The dark debauchery continues for the next week, be sure to catch Jyrki 69 in concert- you’ll regret it if you don’t!
Set List:
Last Halloween
Bloodlust
Twist of Cain
Dead Girls are Easy
People are Strange
Gothic Girl
Something To Do
Spanish Steps
This Corrosion
In Your Dreams
Brandon Lee
Never Say Die
Lost Boys
JYRKI 69
