Räfven

The Swedish gypsy punk band Räfven is playing at least four sets at this year’s Fuji Rock. Do yourself a favor and catch at least one of them.

The Palace of Wonder was probably the most natural and best venue to catch their compulsively dancy mix of gypsy jazz, klezmer, punk rhythm and brass explosiveness. They started out in their traditional-esque uniforms, black slacks, leather shoes, white collared shirts, ties, even a couple guys wearing jackets. By the end, five of eight band members were naked to the waist, dripping sweat and dancing in a tizzy. It was that kind of hot-house party, and the crowd was in a similar state. The Crystal Palace tent was at capacity with around 300 inside and a long line to get in.

At past Fuji Rocks, Räfven has played seven or eight sets — it may be more and they may in fact have the record for most performances during a Fuji Rock weekend. In 2009, they were voted the festival’s “Best Band” in a Tower Records fan vote. The point here is that they love to play, and when they do, it is always with maximum energy. Their final scheduled set will be Sunday afternoon at 1pm at Cafe de Paris. It’s also possible they’ll be busking elsewhere or even playing anywhere else festival organizers will let them.