Someday…someway… is here now

For months on end, much of Goa has awaited this day. The day when a band of many people’s childhood and teen years, Michael Learns To Rock, would have the entire state eating out of its hand. The band’s popularity was at its peak right in Goa at the release of ‘Nothing To Lose’, their fourth studio album launched in 1997. Post that, following releases weren’t as popular in the state. But that being said, fans in Goa can expect a mix of all sorts from tonight. The band, according to guitarist Mikkel Lentz will dish out some of their finest that Goa is doubtlessly accustomed to. “The set list will focus on a little of everything, from our classics to the newer elements as well,” he says, adding “Some segments of the set will be more intimate, with a more acoustic sound, but we do love the ‘full band’ effect as well, so we will address that format too.” However, reluctant to release more to the masses at this juncture, lead vocalist, Jasha Richter states “We are looking forward to surprising the audience, so it is critical to our performance that they get there on time.” And time is something that is certainly of the essence. As their prior gig in Calcutta came to a close, members of the audience chanted for their favourite number from the band, ‘25 Minutes’ only to have the band respond that they were too late to the gig and had missed it. Given that the song itself is about a man who is 25 Minutes too late to stop the woman he loves marrying someone else, the irony is irresistible. People looking forward to hearing the hit ‘Someday’ may also be in for a bit of a treat, with Mikkel pointing out that it is his personal favourite when it comes to their repertoire; one that they are happy to present to their local fan following, as they believe that India boasts of a completely different audience, and is the only place where people stand up through their concerts giving it a completely different, near ‘electric’ vibe. Drummer Kåre Wanscher talks about their great Indian adventure, saying “We first came to India in 1996, and the response has only gotten better over time. In fact, Shillong has perhaps been our greatest venue to have ever played at. At one point, we looked up and realised that we were playing to about 30,000 people. Now, nearly 20 years later, we are at our first gig in Goa, and we can’t wait to get started.” And it’s fair to say, neither can we.