SAMA 2006

Yesterday it was time once again for SAMA, the Scandinavian Alternative Music Awards. A yearly gathering where veterans, newcomers and dedicated fans of electronic music all end up under the same roof. As usual, it was an enjoyable blend of old favorites and fresh discoveries.

The original lineup featuring De/Vision, Strasse and Sturm Café had gradually grown into something considerably more tempting, with Das Ich, VNV Nation, Iris, Spetsnaz and Seize joining the bill. I had skipped SAMA last year, but this one felt impossible to pass up.

Bruno Kramm of Das Ich had a bit of bad luck with the computers, but his hairstyle was on point as always.

One of the evening’s highlights was seeing VNV Nation again. The last time had been at Tinitus some years ago, where the crowd seemed determined to compress itself into a single solid object. This performance was a far more civilized affair, allowing Ronan Harris and Mark Jackson to do what they do best: Deliver an energetic, uplifting show that never fails to pull people onto the dance floor.

VNV Nation were doing a solid show.

Iris also returned to Sweden after their memorable debut at Arvikafestivalen two years ago. The most noticeable difference this time? The singer wasn’t performing with a broken leg, which naturally made for a considerably more animated performance.

Iris are back.

Spetsnaz needed little encouragement to get the audience moving. Stefan Nilsson and Pontus Stålberg once again demonstrated why they remain one of Sweden’s strongest live EBM acts, hammering out relentless rhythms that left very few people standing still.

It was equally satisfying to welcome back Das Ich and Sturm Café, rounding off an evening that reminded me why SAMA had become such an important fixture on the Scandinavian alternative calendar. Nights like these aren’t just about the bands. They’re about meeting old friends, discovering new music and realizing that, despite appearances, the scene is still very much alive.