Stripped down from his usual reggae band routine of Mitsukaze and the Green Massive, Saturday afternoon in the forest stage Mokudo Tei welcomed Mitsukaze playing solo. Well, almost solo; he was joined by Green Massive band mate Karamuishi on hand drums. Karamushi also occasionally got on the mic to trade lyrics with Mitsukaze or shout praises of Jah or positive fire, typical ragga bizness.

Mitsukaze was pleasant throughout, rocking an acoustic guitar, a harmonica and a folky, laid back vibe that was shared between all of us squatting in the forest. The one man acoustic act, (well two in the case) is hard to hide from, it’s a raw, personal expression between an artist and the audience. Mitsukaze is clearly comfortable in front of a crowd and was really digging the small forest setting of the Mokudo Tei.

The two men had us chanting, singing along to classic Jamaican tunes and even praising the almighty Jah. For their part, they were skatting, rapping, singing, busting out solos and genuinely enjoying themselves. The set, although appreciated on its’ own seemed a teaser of sorts to tomorrow night’s Green Massive set in the Crystal Palace. I know I’ll be there. Although I didn’t need convincing in the first place. Jah…Rastafari!