Homegrown Niigata heros My Hair is Bad has been making the rounds in the Japanese alternative music press lately, and I was pleased to find out why, firsthand.

In theme with “band names that don’t really fit”, these guys are a little bit hard on themselves. Their ‘dos weren’t that awful, and with the constant humidity and random rain bursts up here, anyone could be forgiven a few stray hairs. It’s okay guys, really. It’s going to be okay.

I had to repress the urge to get up on stage and say those words to vocalist Tomomi Shiiki while simultaneously handing the guy a box of tissues when they stepped on stage and began their first song, The poor fellow looked like he was about to break into tears—his voice, his face, his entire being was laden with emotion. Bassist Bireley’s seemed to be able to relate and looked pretty forlorn himself. (Drummer Yamajun seemed unperturbed, as drummers often do.) If you don’t believe me, take a look at their music video for “Saikin no Koto” (Things Lately/ Things that have happened lately) and see for yourself.

The lads ripped into an amazingly danceable melodic rock set with lyrics about beef bowls, twitter, and playing at Fuji Rock. (They’re definitely keeping up with the times.) The audience chimed in on catchy choruses, bass solos popped in and there was some very excited arm waving, (mostly by Tomomi), who seemed the most excited out of anyone that they were there.

They were a little bit awkward, but charming and with a really great sound. Original enough to be memorable, but not weird enough to alienate a mainstream crowd. They were easily my favorite pick of the night on the Rookie stage, and depending on the next few nights, maybe even the whole weekend.

Keep your eyes peeled for these guys—they’re sure to be on one of the bigger stages soon. Maybe not next year, but not far off in the future.