Veteran Fuji Rock performer Willie McNiel made it back once again this year. And he brought with him a whole bag of goodies! First up, the band; one drummer, one congo player, a two man brass section, keyboard and a double bass. And it isn’t long after the music started that we’re introduced to the rest of tonight’s performers, in the form of 3 lithe female dancers (who, if this was winter in Naeba’s mountains, would be facing more than a little hypothermia from lack of clothes).

Sultry brass blared over a bright tropical rhythm, as each dancer took turns to solo with their large white fans, strutting and teasing as way of introduction to the crowd. Next song Willie took to the mike, singing about a lonely summer to a Latin beat as an ominous keyboard led led the band back to groovy territory. The melody gradually ground down before the re-emergence of a dancer heralded a change to a rendition of ‘Sway with Me’ led by brazen trumpet. She lost piece of silvery clothing by silvery clothing in a shimmer, as Willie gaped and stared exaggeratedly. The song ramped up as she continued to leave the crowd hanging, before eventually losing all but a skimpy set of briefs and nipple pasties, much to the delight of the crowd.

Reggae crept into the set as the next song became a bopping bass and soulful sax number, but regained its manicness again once the dancers whirl and twirl out from backstage in colourful skirts. The next song saw the dancers rest again, while Willie took to vocals in Spanish. It was built upon a bassline so happy you can almost see its smile shimmering in the air. The set continued, with the band’s catchy funk, latin and jazz hooks matched by the grace, physicality and allure of the three dancers. But it was when Willie unleashed on the drums with his hand speed, solos and deep groove that was just as eye-catching as the half naked dancers, who were able to quiver in ways that shouldn’t be possible.

It’s Willie’s ‘dirty old’ uncle caricature behind the drum kit, with his wide, fish-eyed adoration of the dancers and mugging for the audience, that made the performance good. The chemistry between not only all the instrumental performers but also between them and the dancers made the set great. But what truly made it awesome was Willie behind the drum kit, using his instrument in directing the band and dancers with poise and equally conducting the audience’s reaction with his face, actions and exaggeration. Willie and his gang will be appearing around the festival a few more times this year, be sure to catch them!