Rock Monsters Romania

The first night of QFest always hits you like a truck. And this year’s first day wasn’t just a Monday. It was a very loud Monday. And a rather warm one, compared to what the weather had in store for the rest of the week. It was both a pleasure and a lot of fun to watch the Day 1 lineup, on the 29th of September in Quantic Pub.

The evening commenced with Far Away From Earth, which was an excellent starter choice. Their set was fresh and youthful, but evoked a deep nostalgia for the 90s, which made them a good fit for all ears and ages. The public was easily captured, especially after noticing that the rebel, alternative sound went so well with the kaval insertions. This instrument is well-established nationally and is present within the current waves of underground folklore, so these guys should take way more advantage of this asset in their live sets.

There are obvious influences in this band’s concept from the start. Luna Amară is a good example. Songs like “Molotov” and “Astăzi” reminded me of the good ol’ “Asfalt” days, with a funky twist on the same “spitting-in-your-face” choruses where you don’t know if you should crash out in rage or keep your hopes up for a better future. Moreover, the lead singer’s edgy tones really delivered the message and kept the pace while also flirting with the angsty rhythm. However, my personal favourite was the stage presence. That’s usually where you can tell whether or not a band has a future in store, and this one does. They may be far away, but it was definitely an earthquake both up on the stage and down in the crowd. 

Unlike many similar bands, I think F.A.F.E. has variation. Or enough of it so that the songs don’t sound like each other. Their set was truly inspirational, kind of out of a Disney movie where you watch a high school rock band’s breakthrough moment and you think to yourself “Yeah, these guys are pretty good. Why do they make it look so easy?” 

The night was followed by Îngeri și Corbi, a Transylvanian trio whose set I found really intriguing. They may call themselves post-grunge, since their members are more mature than the previous band (hence the more serious, existential themes in their music, with oftentimes religious undertones), but you can sense a touch of emo if you listen closely (or maybe it’s just the 90s kid in me speaking). It was loud and at times felt like a metal gospel. 

The sound is mature and well-crafted. But the result didn’t always feel intentional. What I mean by this is that even if I was in the presence of professionals, at times it felt like the next song was a reiteration of the previous one. I deeply resonated with the anger and the passion and I’m a huge fan of poetry in music. This band really keeps up with the culture when it comes to songwriting. I just believe that their lyrics should have a cleaner and more cohesive direction. When you’re a poet, it’s very easy to get lost in the lyricism of it all, and you forget to shape the story so that the audience understands where you come from. 

However, I was really pleased with the quality of the vocals, and both singers’ voices work so well together. The riffs were incredibly catchy and their crowdwork was a masterclass. They overall managed to keep the whole crowd entertained. It’s very important to take some time between songs to engage with the people and maybe introduce a theme or salute the fans. I found this set to be an emotional journey with a pretty good soundtrack.

With Alternosfera you already knew what to expect. Watching them live was probably the best way I could have spent the first day of QFest. This band’s name perfectly explains how their music is its own universe, a “sphere” that encapsulates an essence of rock that ages like fine wine, but it also brings together a plethora of generations, since their songs are incredibly difficult to dislike.

Marcel Bostan is a master of ceremonies on the mic, but when he switches to the synth he becomes his own puppet, and you don’t have to see it to hear the way he raves on those keys. You can tell he’s an introspective artist and a wise mind, but I’m wondering, in his artistic trance, if he caught a breath between the songs. 

In the end, can I just say how in awe I was to rediscover some of my favourite songs like „Aruncă-mi” and ”Fântânile”? And the best part is that nothing felt too old, or too nostalgic. It felt renewed. It’s so strange how you get to mouth every lyric without realising you knew them that well. That’s exactly what masterful writing does to you. 

I left Quantic that day fulfilled and, as intended, with ringing ears. We witnessed a wonderful combination, from all alternative shapes and sizes. I couldn’t help but wonder: Is Monday too early in the week to party?

Review by Raluca Baciu