It's the silent ones you need to watch out for!
For me, the White Stage is the place to be late Sunday morning/ early afternoon because the first Japanese band to grace the stage are usually nothing short of awesome.
Three years ago, Afrirampo's stellar set was easily one of the fest's best. Two years ago, Envy 's mix of hardcore and post-rock helped provided a much needed blast of energy to plow through Fuji's last day. In 2007, Toe delighted all with their intricate jazzy post-rock. This year Mono will be wowing spectators with their epic sonic masterpieces.
The Tokyo-based instrumental act have rightfully considered one of Asia's best post-rock acts. After touring extensively behind 2006's brilliant You Are There , they announced last last year that they would be taking a break from touring in 2008 to focus on writing their fifth full-length. This month they are in Chicago recording the new disc with long-time producer Steve Albini. They'll follow that up with a handful of summer gigs, that thankfully includes a stop at Fuji Rock. Do yourself a huge favour and check it out. You won't be disappointed!
Mono story from The Japan Times
Mono on YouTube
Shawn
* Photo by Saya38 and used with permission from Smashing Mag
