Mori wa Ikiteiru translates to “the forest is alive”, and that may be so. But it felt more like I was waiting to board a train at Tokyo station during rush hour than standing in the middle of the woods with a cool breeze going through my hair.

That is, until the band began to play. A unique fusion of tropical jazz, country and soft rock filled the air, gentle but invigorating. Satoshi Takegawa’s soft and lilting voice soothed and lulled fans either swaying along to the rhythm or sitting in camper seats. The latter were obviously well aware of Mori wa Ikiteiru’s style and wisely prepared ahead for maximum chillness.

We were transported to a place with a cool summer breeze; the only thing missing was a beer in hand. Don’t be fooled though. Songs may start sleepy and mellow, but just as you’re wrapped in a warm ball of fuzz and dreaming away, Mori will brutally wake you up with blaring trumpets and crazy keyboards. You’ll be glad they did though, because the pianist puts on quite the show.

The sextet is difficult to categorize, especially because of a long list of influences that could rival a five year old’s Christmas wish list to Santa. Not being able to pigeon hole them makes them that much more interesting, and probably explains the diverse crowd watching them. Judging by the size their audience they have a very high chance of making the big stage next year.