あれからすでに17年、相も変わらずそんなことを続けている。なにはともあれ、みんなの幸せな顔を見るのが嬉しいからだ。苗場音頭での盆踊りが一段落して、花火が上がったあと、レッド・マーキーの入口のテープがカットされると、この1年間、フジロックを待ちわびていた人達が、文字通り、堰を切ったように雪崩れ込んでくる。そして、DJ MAMEZUKAの絶妙な選曲で回されるレコードからあふれ出る音の洪水をかぶる彼らの幸せな表情ったら……ありゃあしない。それに魅入られた関係者や噂を聞きつけた出演者までもが、ステージからその光景を記録しようとカメラを構えている。どうやら、運営本部でもその様子が映像で確認されているようなのだが、ちっぽけなモニターで見るのと、現場にいるのとでは大違い。実際にそれを目の当たりにしてほしいと呼び出したのが、昨年までグリーン・ステージを担当していた、主催者スマッシュの新社長、佐潟氏。それに応えてわざわざやって来てくれた彼が「確かに、そうだね。実際に見ると……」と、口にしてくれたのが嬉しかった。

加えて、今年はステージ袖に腰をかけて、最初のバンド、USを待ちわびていたのが、フジロックを生み出した日高大将。言うまでもなく、彼の写真をフィーチャーして2021年に制作した「Wanted（指名手配）」Tシャツには「彼が最前線に戻ってほしい」という願いが込められていた。かつてfujirockers.orgが作ったTシャツで、これが桁違いのセールスを記録したのはなぜか？　多くのフジロッカーがそんな思いを共有していたからに違いない。嬉しいことに、昨年はクリスタル・パレスやどん吉パークに彼が出没。体調がすぐれないと耳にしていたにもかかわらず、今年はレッド・マーキーからグリーン・ステージにも姿を見せている。しかも、彼が惚れ込んだというUSのライヴを楽しんでいる姿を目撃したのは少なくとも2回。ひょっとしたら、それ以上足を運んでいたのかもしれない。

コロナ禍以降、なかなか本来のフジロックが戻ってこないことに苛立っているフジロッカーが多いことは百も承知だ。それでも、ここにいるだけで幸せを感じていた。奥地のカフェ・ドゥ・パリもストーンド・サークルもない。ジム・ウェストを中心に集まってきたDJたちがお気に入りの音楽を楽しむブルー・ギャラクシーは復活したものの、あの周りにあったワールド・レストランは見る影もない。昔からのフジロックを知っている人間にとってみると、かなり寂しい景色にも映る。それでも、「なにやら幸せ」な自分がいるのだ。どこかで読んだ記事に「フジロックで飲むビールがめちゃ旨い」というのがあったんだが、実にその通り。なにを食っても、なにを飲んでも、ここにいることでその全てが格別なものになっているのに気付くのだ。

何度もやってきている常連にとって、フジロックは盆と正月が一緒になった、里帰りのようなもの。懐かしい友や仲間に再会できる場所でもある。年に一度、ここでしか再会しない友人だって珍しくもない。それでも、どこかで同じような世界を引きずりながら生きていることを互いに確認したり、旧交を温めることになる。しかも、初めて出会っても、どこかで繋がっているような感覚に陥ることも珍しくはない。そして、この1年を振り返りながら、あ〜でもない、こ〜でもないと会話が続いていくのだ。

この1年でフジロックに馴染みのある人たちもこの世を去っている。そんな仲間やアーティストのことが頭をかすめるのも仕方がないだろう。そんなひとりがチバユウスケ。今年、1998年の「地面が揺れた」伝説のフジロックから、スタッフが記録し続けた彼の写真をフジロッカーズ・ラウンジで展示したのは、そんな勇姿が我々に焼き付いていたからだろう。土曜日にクラフトワークが、昨年亡くなった坂本龍一への敬意を示すように「戦場のメリー・クリスマス」を奏でて、「Radioactivity」への導入部のように使ったのが話題になっているが、彼も苗場に姿を見せたアーティストのひとりだった。

Photo by MITCH IKEDA

フジロック・エキスプレスの更新作業に使う本部テントの準備と取材活動のために、精鋭スタッフと共に苗場入りした火曜日、新たな訃報が飛び込んでいた。作業を終えた夕方、UKロックの源流と言っていいだろう、ジョン・メイオールが亡くなったことを知る。ご存知の方も多いだろう。彼の次男が、フジロックの第1回目から最重要スタッフとして行動を共にしてきたスマッシュUKのジェイソンであり、幾度となくDJとして、あるいは、ザ・トロージャンズというバンドを率いて出演してきたギャズは長男。いわば、ふたりともフジロックを語るときに欠かすことができない人物となっている。彼らにどんな言葉をかければいいのか……、かなり戸惑っていた。実の父親が他界したのだ。彼らが現場を離れても誰も文句は言えないだろう。が、ジェイソンは黙々とフェスティヴァルの準備に奔走し、少し遅れてやって来たギャズには予定通りにツアー続行することを告げられる。

規模で言えば、比較の対象にはならないことは百も承知なのだが、フジロックを触発することになった英国のグラストンバリー・フェスティヴァルに繋がる不思議な縁がメイオール親子かもしれない。後者の主催者で会場となる農場の主、マイケル・イーヴィスが大きな影響を受けたのは1969年に開催されたバース・ブルース・フェスティヴァル。そこで演奏したジョン・メイオールとブルース・ブレイカーズを見て、「自分もフェスティヴァルをやりたい」と思うに至ったと。今ではその中心人物として全てを仕切っている末娘、エミリーが口にしている。しかも、そのライヴのステージ裏にいたのが、まだまだガキンチョだったギャズとジェイソン。ずいぶんと大人になった彼らがフジロックで最もフェスティヴァル的要素を凝縮したパレス・オヴ・ワンダーからブルー・ギャラクシーの顔のような存在となっている。

1970年に始まったグラストンバリーは今年で54年目となり、1997年に始まったフジロックは、ちょうどその半分の27年目。苗場での開催が始まった1999年から25年の節目となることが今年は話題になっているのだが、フジロックのルーツと言ってもいい、アトミック・カフェ・ミュージック・フェスティヴァルが産声を上げたのは1984年と、40年前にさかのぼる。というので、あの時、スタッフとして関わった身として、今年はジプシー・アヴァロンで続けられているアトミック・カフェのステージに立って、当時の話をしている。

あれから、とてつもない時間が過ぎ去ったように思う。その間に多くの友達や仲間に関係者がこの世を去り、フジロックが始まった頃にはまだ40代そこそこだった筆者も、すでに高齢者となっている。今年、グラストンバリーの主催者、マイケルが車いすに乗ってザ・パークと呼ばれるステージに姿を見せている一方で、フジロック生みの親、日高大将は杖を片手に前夜祭のレッド・マーキーやグリーン・ステージに立っている。かつてのようにジープで会場内を走って、動き回っていた彼らを見られないのは残念だが、世界の西と東で目撃したこの光景は彼らの想いがそのままフェスティヴァルとなっているんだろうと思わせていた。

なにやら表向きには順調に復活しているように見えるかもしれないフジロックだが、さて、どうなんだろう。確かに、主催者からは「来年はあります」と耳にしているし、今年も会場を離れるときに見たゲートには、その日程が発表されていた。しかし、その言葉の裏に「再来年はわからない」というニュアンスを感じていた。なにせ、異常とも思える円安のピークが開催期間中。ギャラの支払いはドル建てが原則なので、おそらく、海外からやって来た出演者に支払われる金額が想定よりも遙かに膨らんでいるはずだ。加えて、チケットのセールスも全盛期から比較したら、貧しかったと聞いている。チケットが値上げされているといっても、利益が出ているとは考えられない。

だからなんだろう、どこかで唐突にフジロックがなくなってしまうのではないかという危惧感は拭えない。なんの前触れもなく、消え去ってしまうような怖さも感じているのが正直なところ。でも、もちろん、そうなって欲しくない。なぜなら、想像できないのだ。年に一度帰る故郷がなくなることは。フジロックのおかげで知り合ったり、仲良くなった友人たちと再会できる機会が失われるのには耐えられないように思う。

初めてここに来た人達はどうだった？　同じように感じる？　また、来年もやってきたいと思った？　もし、そうでなかったら、フジロックの魅力が失せているってことなんだろう。もし、そうだったら、フジロックがこれでも他に類を見ない野外コンサートではなく、フェスティヴァルと呼ぶにふさわしい存在だということを証明してくれているようにも思う。でも、かつてのフジロックを取り戻したいという想いは変わらない。

今回、嬉しかったことのひとつは、会場で、かつてワールド・レストランと呼ばれる場所で中心となって動いてくれていたエチオピア人の仲間、ソロモンを見かけたこと。なんと7年ぶりに来た彼がなにを思ったか？　ひょっとして、また、彼を核にワールド・レストランのような趣を復活させてくれないだろうかと期待してしまうのだ。そして、もうひとつ嬉しかったのが、何年ぶりだろう、戻ってきてくれたジーンズのリーバイス(Levi’s）。初期のフジロックでコンスタントにサポートしてくれていた彼らが戻ってきてくれた背景に、昔のスタッフが関わっていることに驚かされていた。

さて、そんな今年の会場内外での顛末を伝えてくれたのは以下のスタッフの数々。会場で一生懸命動いてくれた彼らに感謝して、そして、また、ここに集まってきたみなさんと再会できることを祈って、〆の文章を終えようと思う。ありがとうございました。

■日本語版
森リョータ、阿部光平、丸山亮平、あたそ、阿部仁知、イケダノブユキ、石角友香、梶原綾乃、三浦孝文、若林修平、Asakawa Maho、東いずみ、越川由夏、泉みや、Eriko Kondo、YAMAZAKI YUIKA、渡辺紗礼、こっこ、ヌー子、浅野凜太郎、井上勝也、エモトココロ、堅田ひとみ、粂井健太、古川喜隆、小林弘輔、佐藤哲郎、白井絢香、suguta、髙津大地、HARA MASAMI(HAMA)、平川啓子、前田 俊太郎、松藤 万里子、ミッチ イケダ、宮田遼、安江正実、リン（YLC Photography）

■E-Team
Nina Cataldo、Jonathan Cooper、Park Baker、Sean Scanlan

■フジロッカーズラウンジ
mimi、obacchi、SEKI、yamato

■ウェブサイト制作＆更新
平沼寛生（プログラム開発）、迫勇一、坂上大介

■スペシャルサンクス
三ツ石哲也

A Tale of Two Sets

Esne Beltza performed at 3 a.m. Saturday at Crystal Palace, followed by a performance less than 12 hours later on the White Stage. When asked about the difference between their performances over the two days, Lova described the first night as more intimate, with a closer connection to the audience. “Saturday night was more intimate. Like we were more near the people. But Sunday was like an explosion,” she said, her excitement palpable. This juxtaposition between the closeness of their first set and the explosive energy of the second highlighted the band’s versatility and their ability to engage with the crowd in different settings.

Fuji Rock: A Familiar Stage

Despite this being Lova’s first time at Fuji Rock and in Japan, Esne Beltza is no stranger to the festival, marking their fifth appearance. Lova marveled at the Japanese audience, describing them as incredibly passionate and welcoming. “The Japanese crowd is so grateful. They go crazy or mad. It doesn’t matter if they know you or not. They are so grateful. I love that part of this culture,” she shared. This warm reception contrasted with the often reserved audiences they encounter in Europe, making their performances in Japan particularly special. “In other countries, they are colder. They start like getting high when the show is in the middle or finishing. But I feel like in Japan, you just say hi and they are like… they are mad just in the start of the show.”

A Whirlwind Tour

The band’s tight schedule left little room for sightseeing, but Lova was captivated by the snippets of Tokyo she managed to explore. “We see something about Tokyo, and I was like, I love it,” she exclaimed. Their busy itinerary included a performance at MARZ in Shinjuku before heading to the festival, showcasing their commitment and passion for sharing their music. Despite the hectic pace, she appreciated the brief moments to soak in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

Culinary Delights and Cultural Connections

Lova expressed her admiration for Japanese cuisine, noting its healthiness and rich flavors. Her favorites included takoyaki and a variety of rice dishes with fish or meat. “I find it healthy food. And the flavors are spicy,” she noted, appreciating the unique culinary experiences Japan offers compared to her hometown of Bilbao. She mentioned, “Yesterday we had dinner and we got the takoyaki. Tako rice. Tako rice, chicken, spicy or something like this. It was super good.”

A Journey of Musical Fusion

Joining Esne Beltza two years ago, Lova was discovered by the band’s founder, Xabi Solano Maiza, through Instagram, where she showcased her rap and hip-hop talents. This diverse musical background aligns perfectly with Esne Beltza’s genre-blending style, which incorporates reggae, rock, and more. Lova emphasized the importance of the message in their music, stating, “What I like more is the message. Like the message of the songs. I don’t mind what genre. But what I like is the music.” Her personal influences span a wide range, from Bob Marley to Aretha Franklin, reflecting her eclectic taste and the band’s multifaceted sound.

A Band with a Mission

Esne Beltza’s mission goes beyond music. They aim to fight for freedom, culture, music, and language. This commitment to their roots and values resonates deeply with their fans, making their performances not just entertaining but also meaningful. “We want to fight for our freedom, for our culture, our music, and our language,” Lova stated passionately. Their performances were a testament to their boundless energy, cultural pride, and musical versatility. As they continue to captivate audiences worldwide, their powerful message and infectious spirit remain at the heart of their journey.

[Interview Transcript]

FR: So, congrats, that was a great performance. And I saw you guys last night also. It was so much energy. So, how was the set last night compared to today’s set? Were there differences? How did you feel?

Lova: I think yesterday was like more intimate. Like we were more near the people. But today was like an explosion. We were super happy for being here. It has been like a really huge party today.

FR: Was this your first time at Fuji Rock?

Lova: Yeah. Well, no, it’s never like the band. It was the… How many times have you been here? The third time? Oh, fifth time at Fuji Rock. It’s my first time here. Okay. Because I just entered into the group.

FR: I see.

Lova: This last year, but the group… Yeah, they’ve been here.

FR: So, is this your first time in Japan?

Lova: Yeah.

FR: So, how do you find Japan?

Lova: Wow. The people, like the culture, the food, the passion for music. I’m in love with Japan.

FR: Have you had time to tour, like to travel and explore?

Lova: Not so much, because we arrived here. We went to Sala Mars in New York. Where was Sala Mars? Shinjuku, Tokyo. So, we went there yesterday to go there to play. Yesterday, we’ve been playing here in Fuji Rock, and today, too. Very busy. Yeah. But we see something about Tokyo, and I was like, I love it. Yeah, that’s awesome.

FR: And for you, it’s your first time in Japan. How do you find the crowds in Japan compared to back in Basque Country or Europe, other places you travel to play? How do you find the Japanese crowd?

Lova: I think the Japanese crowd is so grateful. They go crazy or mad. It doesn’t matter if they know you or not. They are so grateful. I love that part of this culture. The passion they have for music. Yeah, yeah, yeah.

FR: Do they feel very welcome? Like, welcome to you?

Lova: Yeah, we feel like they know us. Like all people know us. And it’s super, super funny. Yeah, when you go to places like this, you feel that energy.

FR: Yeah, and that energy is different from the energy playing in other countries?

Lova: Yes, maybe in other countries, they are colder.

FR: Oh, interesting.

Lova: They start like getting high [energy] when the show is in the middle or finishing. But I feel like in Japan, you just say hi and they are like… They are mad just in the start of the show. Right, right, right. So that’s super, super cool.

FR: That’s very awesome. So you guys have been so busy. Are you able to walk around Fuji Rock after this or anything?

Lova: Yeah, yesterday we went to watch Kraftwerk. And maybe today it’s raining but we don’t mind because in Basque Country it’s raining all the time too. So maybe we are going to watch other shows.

FR: Nice. Have you had any of the food here? What’s your favorite Japanese food?

Lova: My favorite food… Maybe… And I’m just impressed that all the food is so healthy or something like this. Like rice with fish or meat. But I like that I find it healthy food. And the flavors are spicy.

FR: Yeah, all the different Asian flavors that you might not get. Do you have much Japanese food back in… You’re from Bilbao, is it? There?

Lova: Yeah. Yeah, but I didn’t try so much. It’s not the same.

FR: Yeah, it’s true. Here I like… I would say like rice with meat and like with the spicy sauce or something like this.

Lova: Here, yesterday we had dinner and we got the takoyaki. No, taco rice with chicken, spicy or something like this. It was super good.

FR: Nice. So how long have you been with the band?

Lova: Two years.

FR: What were you doing before and what made you…

Lova: I have like my own friends apart from the band. I’m like… My name is Lova Lois. Lova, like love. And I meet the band. Xabi, like he find me on Instagram because I was doing a song for the women. Like rapping. I usually do rap, hip-hop. And he find me and he told me, we are looking for a singer in our group and I think you will be the one.

FR: That’s so cool. How did you feel?

Lova: Wow. I couldn’t believe it. That’s a f**king masterpiece.

FR: That’s amazing. And who are your personal music influences? What musicians do you like?

Lova: I think I listen to all type of music. I like the old school musicians. But for reggae, I like Bob Marley, or like Elvis Presley, or Aretha Franklin.

FR: Lots of genres, right? Because you guys play lots of genres also.

Lova: Yeah, yeah. I always say that what I like more is the message. Like the message of the songs. I don’t mind what genre. But what I like is the music.

FR: And you guys have a very strong message also. What would you say, like right now, in this era, what is your band’s message to your fans?

Lova: We want to fight for our freedom, for our culture, our music, and our language. Yeah, so like fighting for rights.

FR: Yes. Amazing. Perfect. Oh, last thing. How do you do this hair?

Lova: This is my mom[‘s work]. She’s the artist.

FR: Your mom?

Lova: She’s the actual artist.

FR: Wow, so she did that for you.

Lova: Yes.

FR: It’s great. Amazing. Thank you so much.

1. Girl in Red
I’ll be honest, as epic as it was to catch Kraftwerk’s much-anticipated set on the Green Stage, I regret not rushing over to see Girl in Red’s White Stage set from the start. Nonetheless, I caught most of her show and am still buzzing from the energy she brought to Fuji Rock. The queer icon interacted with her audience with friendly conversations and banter, even receiving a bag of coffee as a gift from a fan in the front row. Later on, she climbed into the crowd as she sang and made her way through the sea of fans. I love when artists make the effort to connect with their audience, and Girl in Red was one of the most memorable examples of this at this year’s festival.

2. The Killers
I didn’t think they would make it on my top five, but call me basic. They really rocked Friday night! What was most memorable about seeing the band that shaped my teenage years was that I got to see them with my 7-year-old, thinking about what an iconic memory it will be in her life. I would compare this to seeing Led Zeppelin or Pink Floyd at her age, had my parents been cool enough to take me to a festival (sorry mom and dad, you DID take me to see lots of great music still!). We sang along to all our nostalgic favorites that we still sing to at karaoke—with the live band right there with us. I can’t forget to mention Brandon Flowers’ outfit change into a bright pink suit jacket that I wanted for myself!

3. Kenya Grace
I went into her set nearly blind-sided, only knowing her from her TikTok/Reel hit “Strangers” (my basic b*tch personality seems to continue). But the moment she began her set, I was blown away. Not only does she have a beautiful voice, but she also combined her vocal skills with her Drum & Bass synth techniques, mixing every song on her own. I especially enjoyed her cover of Imogen Heap’s “Hide and Seek” that brought new electronic depth to the iconic original. Grace also brought a D&B version of Britney Spears’ ever-beloved club hit, “Toxic,” that I couldn’t help but sing and dance to.

4. Esne Beltza
I caught this Basque band at both of their Fuji Rock appearances—Saturday night at Crystal Palace and Sunday afternoon on White Stage. I wondered how their intimate Crystal Palace set would translate onto the big stage, but they still kept the same spirit up in both environments. As advocates for the preservation and protection of their unique Basque culture, the band sang outspokenly about their heritage and political movements, often teaching their audience phrases in their own language. It felt like a true cultural exchange right at Fuji Rock. Influenced by a plethora of genres, every song was exciting and unpredictable. At both sets, the band got the audience involved in mosh pits and jumping for a visually and physically exhilarating experience!

5. Festival Flags
Speaking of activism, the fifth place on my list goes to a whole movement I saw throughout the three-day festival. While Western festivals such as Glastonbury and Coachella are filled with creative flags made by attendees flying high all over festival grounds, it’s much more of a rare scene in Japan…BUT not this year! I was excited and amazed to see some flags being carried around by attendees. From a Pride flag by a fabulously fashionable group of friends to a handful of Palestinian flags, they reminded me that Fuji Rock may be entering a new, elevated era. Sure, these flags can convey sensitive topics (especially here in Japan), but it’s no secret that rock has historically always intertwined with politics. Fuji Rock has its own roots in activism—always showcased at NGO Village but rarely put in front of your face, especially in more recent years. Since Fuji Rock 2023, there’s been a major shift in the world’s political climate, namely, the war in Gaza. While Japan is often seen as a place of passivity, there was no denying that Fuji Rock 2024 shone a different light.

Runner-up: Family Mart x Fuji Rock Fashion
I cannot talk about Fuji Rock 2024 without mentioning the standout act, Family Mart. The beloved Japanese convenience store chain collaborated with Fuji Rock to produce colorful socks and towels sporting the signature festival colors. Not only did I rock up to Fuji Rock on Friday wearing my own pair of the white socks, but I was also impressed to see their marketing at the festival itself. They had a booth of their own at the entrance of the festival, surely increasing sales. While I personally was excited to see soooooooooooo many people rocking these goods throughout the weekend (me again, the basic b*tch), I heard some say they were embarrassed by it. Whatever your take, there’s no denying that they stole the show.

First Time at Fuji Rock

Leo and Eddy, who had never attended a festival before, were thrilled to make their Fuji Rock debut. “We’ve had opportunities to come before, but we wanted our first time to be when we played,” Leo shared. Their excitement was palpable as they recounted the moment they learned they’d be performing: “We applied every year, not expecting much. And then this year, we got in. It was a surprise for us for sure.”

Performing at Fuji Rock 2024

When asked about their set, both agreed it was “f**king awesome.” Eddy noted, “The crowd could have been rocking out a bit more, but it’s Japan. [The crowd] can be a bit conservative.” Despite this, their enthusiasm remained high, reflecting on the positive reception they received.

Cultural Roots and Inspirations

The duo has a rich cultural background, with Leo being English-Japanese and Eddy Brazilian-Japanese. This blend of cultures influences their music and stage presence. They draw inspiration from a diverse range of artists, including The Beatles, John Mayer, Khruangbin, Mac DeMarco, Tyler the Creator, and Glass Beams. “We love Glass Beams,” Leo mentioned, adding that they missed their set at Fuji Rock but heard it was fantastic. The duo’s music covers a range of themes, from love and heartbreak to darker topics like death. Their songwriting process is deeply personal, often stemming from emotional experiences. “When there’s emotional pain, it comes out much easier,” Leo reflected.

Tokyo Music Scene

Salmon Pink has been active in the Tokyo music scene for the past 2-3 years, frequently performing in popular areas like Shimokitazawa and Shibuya. Their favorite venues include Three in Shimokitazawa and La Mama in Shibuya. “La Mama is a place with a lot of history. A lot of old school bands played there before they were famous,” Eddy explained.

Future Plans and Message to Fans

As for future shows, Salmon Pink plans to continue playing in Tokyo, although they currently don’t have specific dates lined up. They encourage fans to follow them on Instagram at @NotPinkSalmon. “Everyone says Pink Salmon, but we’re Salmon Pink,” Leo clarified, revealing that the name was inspired by Leo’s love for mentaiko, a type of seasoned cod roe.

Reflecting on Fuji Rock

The duo thoroughly enjoyed their Fuji Rock experience, mentioning highlights like Kingfish’s performance and the vibrant festival atmosphere. They expressed a desire to return next year, aiming for a slot at the Red Marquee.

Final Thoughts

Salmon Pink’s music covers a range of themes, from love and heartbreak to darker topics like death and hardship. Their songwriting process is deeply personal, often stemming from emotional experiences. “When there’s emotional pain, it comes out much easier,” Leo reflected.

In closing, they shared a simple yet profound message: “Love is the answer. Love is the word.” A fun duo with great presence on stage and off, Salmon Pink is a band to watch out for.

Follow Salmon Pink on Instagram and YouTube.

*Photography credit varies:
1st: Salmon Pink
2nd: 安江正実 (IG credited)
3rd: Nina Cataldo

[Interview Transcript]

FR: Alright, do you want to introduce yourselves?
Leo: I’m in Salmon Pink, I’m Leo.
Eddy: I’m in Salmon Pink, I’m Eddy.
Both: We are at Fuji Rock 2024.
Eddy: Let’s go.
FR: Woo! So, have you guys been to Fuji Rock before?
Eddy: First time.
Leo: First time.
Eddy: First time playing, first time watching, yeah.
FR: Exciting. So, what were some of your expectations or thoughts you had before and how is it now?
Eddy: I had no expectations to be honest. I’ve never been to a festival.
FR: Really?
Eddy: To be honest, yeah. This is the first time. For you too, right?
Leo: Me neither, yeah.
FR: So, that’s like huge stakes then. If you’ve never been at all.
Eddy: Yeah. But we had opportunities to go before to Fuji Rock.
Leo: But we wanted to play the first time we came here.
Eddy: Save it, you know.
Leo: Save it for a good time.
FR: Awesome. So, how did you guys get to Fuji Rock this year then in terms of how did you get to Rookie A Go-Go?
Leo: We applied every year…Sort of not expecting much. And then one day this year, we got in.
FR: Amazing.
Eddy: I guess we did the right thing. We were surprised by this.
Leo: A surprise for us for sure.
Eddy: Yeah. It was surprising.
FR: And how do you feel about your guys’ set?
Leo: F**king awesome.
Eddy: It was crazy, yeah.
Leo: It was good though. I love it.
FR: And the crowd?
Eddy: It was crazy. You know, they could be, you know, rocking out a little bit more, but I mean.
FR: (laughs) It’s Japan.
Leo: What can you do?
Eddy: It’s Japan, exactly.
Leo: Japanese people are a bit conservative.
FR: Yeah. And are you guys from Japan?
Leo and Eddy: Yeah.
Leo: Eddy’s half Brazilian and I’m half English.
FR: Nice.
Eddy: Okinawa.
Leo: Ibaraki.
FR: My grandparents are from Ibaraki also. Hitachi.
Leo: Tsukuba-san. Are you half?
FR: Yeah, I’m half American.
Leo: We’re the same then, yeah.
FR: Yeah, exactly. I thought when I saw you guys up there [on stage], I was like, I bet they’re hafu [half-Japanese]. We just know each other.
Eddy: We know each other, you know. You feel the vibe.
Leo: Yeah. You feel it.
FR: So where do you guys see yourselves next? Any shows, upcoming shows you want to talk about?
Leo: Currently not.
FR: In Tokyo or anywhere?
Leo: In Tokyo, yeah. Definitely in Tokyo. We’ve been playing in Tokyo for like two, three years now.
FR: Where do you guys play?
Leo: Shimokitazawa. And Shibuya sometimes. Mostly Shimokitazawa.
FR: Which venues?
Leo and Eddy: Three.
Leo: In Shibuya we go to a place called La Mama. It’s a place with a lot of history. A lot of old school bands that – before they were famous – they played there apparently.
FR: Sick.
Leo: It’s a good venue.
FR: A lot of places in England are like that too. Like in Liverpool and London, you know? You know all the places that, like, The Beatles started out in or whoever.
Leo: We love The Beatles.
FR: Yeah? So who are your inspirations?
Eddy: Beatles for sure.
Leo: Yeah, Beatles for sure.
Eddy: John Mayer.
Leo: He likes John Mayer. He used to like John Mayer in the beginning. But now we love Khruangbin.
FR: Nice.
Leo: Shout out. (laughs)
Eddy: Mac.
Leo and Eddy: Mac DeMarco.
Eddy: For sure. And who else?
Leo: Glass Beans. We didn’t get to watch it this time.
FR: I heard their set was good.
Eddy: Who else? I don’t know. A lot of artists for sure.
Leo and Eddy: We both like Tyler [the Creator].
Eddy: Tyler’s good.
Leo: Yeah.
FR: So a lot of different genres of influences come to you guys.
Eddy: It’s a big mix.
FR: Super exciting. Would you see yourselves coming back to Fuji Rock?
Eddy: Yeah, definitely.
Leo: Next year, we’re here…hopefully Red Marquee!
FR: So, have you been able to enjoy Fuji Rock this year? What’s been the coolest part?
Leo: Kingfish, he was amazing. He was in the crowd. We were running because we were running out of time. And we got to his set. We could hear the guitar but we couldn’t see him. Like where the f**k is he? He was just five meters ahead of us! It was crazy.
Eddy: I wasn’t there though, I missed that.
Leo: Kingfish was the best, dude! Yussef was good too.
Leo and Eddy: Yussef Dayes.
Leo: He’s English too.
FR: There’ve been a lot of English bands this year.
FR: What are most of your songs about?
Eddy: It really depends…really depends on the vibe.
Leo: We have love songs the most but we also like to write dark songs.
Eddy: Yeah, we do.
Leo: A lot of shit that alludes to, like, death. Shit you don’t really want to talk about to be honest, but you know, it’s real you know.
FR: Yeah. And what’s that writing process like?
Eddy: We do by ourselves mostly
Leo: Yeah, I mean we often struggle with lyrics. But when there’s emotional pain, it comes out much easier. Whether that’s heartbreak or like, losing someone. That’s probably one of our inspirations.
FR: It makes it relatable to listeners, right?
Leo: Yeah.
FR: So, anywhere that people can follow you and keep in touch?
Leo: @NotPinkSalmon on Instagram. That’s “Not Pink Salmon.” Because we’re called Salmon Pink but everyone says,
Eddy: Oooh, Pink Salmon?!
Leo: Yeah (laughs). No no, we’re Salmon Pink.
FR: Where did you get the inspiration for the name?
Eddy: He likes mentaiko.
Leo: So, you know. My favorite food.
Eddy: I mean, I also like it, but he’s like…
FR: Obsessed with it?
Leo: I’m doing a disservice to mentaiko because, I don’t know.
FR: But, so that’s why the inspiration came from your love of mentaiko?
Leo: Yeah, pretty much.
Eddy: We don’t think about it too deep.
FR: That’s great because I saw you guys’ name on the lineup and immediately thought, what a sick name.
Leo: Really? We’ve been having second thoughts for years.
FR: Keep it.
Leo: Alright, alright, alright. Easy to remember, right?
FR: It is. Any message to your fans or future fans?
Eddy: Do we have fans? (laughs)
Leo: (laughs) Yeah, do we have fans?
FR: You guys had a good crowd.
Eddy: What’s the message though?
Leo: Love is the answer. Love is the word. That’s a Yussef Dayes reference. What else? FUJI ROCK!! I guess?
Eddy: FUJI ROCK!! (all laugh)

The lineup included Noel Gallagher (Vo/Gt), former Oasis members Gem Archer (Gt) and Chris Sharrock (Dr), and session pianist Mike Rowe (Key/Pf). They were joined by Russell Pritchard (Ba/Cho), Jessica Greenfield (Key/Ma/Cho), a support keyboardist, three backing vocalists, and occasionally a three-piece horn section—making it the largest ensemble NGHFB has ever had.

The members walked on stage to the sound of John Paul Jones’ “4-Minute Warning,” before kicking off the show with “Pretty Boy” from “Council Skies.” The title track, “Council Skies,” followed, showcasing a new sound with tropical rhythms and a relaxed groove. Tracks like “We’re Gonna Get There in the End” and “Open the Door, See What You Find” brought Gallagher’s signature Britpop melodies, compelling the audience to sway along. Visuals perfectly matched each song, from 90’s romantic music video footage to 70’s-inspired flower power cartoons.

Three songs in, Gallagher greeted the crowd with a simple “Hello,” which the entire audience echoed back. “You good?” he continued in his very British manner, before diving back into the music with a guitar change. Around 45 minutes into the set, a brief heavy rain shower reminded the crowd of the classic Naeba atmosphere without dampening spirits.

Gallagher engaged the crowd with a cheeky, “So I assume we’re all Oasis fans, yeah? Then this will go well,” before playing “Going Nowhere.” This second half of the set was a treat for Oasis fans, featuring an array of beloved tracks. Fan favorites like “Whatever,” “Half The World Away,” “The Masterplan,” and “Little By Little” had the crowd singing along joyfully. Gallagher played and sang Joy Division’s “Love Will Tear Us Apart,” with him announcing, “This is our last song.”

Despite Gallagher’s declaration, everyone knew an encore was imminent. After a brief departure, NGHFB returned to perform “Stand By Me,” “Live Forever,” and finally, “Don’t Look Back In Anger.” Notably, the set didn’t include “Wonderwall,” a surprising omission that left the audience intrigued, yet, satisfied.

Noel Gallagher’s return to Fuji Rock after nine years was heartfelt for many, who were seen in the crowd (and on the big screen) with tears in their eyes. His 2024 set reaffirmed his place in rock history and provided fans with a memorable experience that meshed Gallagher’s own musical roots and the new direction that his band is heading.

Set List:
01. Pretty Boy
02. Council Skies
03. We’re Gonna Get There In The End
04. Open the Door, See What You Find
05. You Know We Can’t Go Back
06. We’re On Our Way Now
07. In the Heat Of The Moment
08. If I Had A Gun…
09. AKA… What a Life!
10. Dead In The Water
11. Going Nowhere (Oasis cover)
12. Talk Tonight (Oasis cover)
13. Whatever (Oasis cover)
14. Half The World Away (Oasis cover)
15. The Masterplan (Oasis cover)
16. Little By Little (Oasis cover)
17. Love Will Tear Us Apart (Joy Division cover)
─ENCORE─
18. Stand by Me (Oasis cover)
19. Live Forever (Oasis cover)
20. Don’t Look Back in Anger (Oasis cover)

When the new collab goods hit the shelves, I was among the many who rushed to the nearest Family Mart to snag a pair. But little did I know, the hype would skyrocket once we all arrived at Fuji Rock! Family Mart had its own booth near the entrance, packed with all the cool collab merch—from towels in various sizes to socks in black and white, all decked out in Fuji Rock’s signature colors.

The scene was wild. I lost count of how many people were sporting the goods within minutes of arriving. Seriously, it felt like one in three festival-goers had either the socks on their feet or a towel around their neck! This collab was undoubtedly one of the biggest hits of Fuji Rock 2024, adding a fun and memorable touch to the festival vibe.

The real question is, will this awesome partnership make a comeback next year? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure: Family Mart’s Fuji Rock collab was a major win in 2024.

Choco Reiji’s connection to Fuji Rock Festival began unexpectedly. Despite admiring the festival from afar, he never thought he would attend. However, an invitation from 6 Kaku Coffee, a unique coffee shop, to join them at Fuji Rock changed everything, bringing him to the festival for the first time.

6 Kaku Coffee in Hachinohe, Aomori Prefecture, uses a unique charcoal-roasting process for their coffee and cacao, inspired by the owner’s background as a charcoal craftsman. This method preserves traditional Japanese techniques, making their products distinct and special.

Choco Reiji shared that the shop sources their cacao from various farms, primarily from Brazil, specifically the Amazon region. This dedication to high-quality, small-scale production sets them apart from mass-produced chocolates found in supermarkets. Their craft chocolate and coffee aare made with meticulous care, resulting in unique flavors and textures.

Choco Reiji’s story is not just about chocolate; it’s about the journey, the people, and the traditions that shape his craft. His travels across Japan have allowed him to explore and connect with numerous chocolate shops, each with its own distinct approach and flavor.

As Choco Reiji reflects on his experiences, he expresses a desire to continue this journey and share his love for craft chocolate with more people. His dedication and passion for the art of chocolate-making are truly inspiring, making his presence at Fuji Rock Festival a memorable highlight.

Find 6 Kaku Coffee at OASIS and enjoy their freshly roasted coffees and chocolate products, such as nuts, ice cream, and cinnamon rolls.

Fuji Rock has always been a festival with a strong political stance, exemplified by partnerships with activists and politically conscious artists like Man on a Mission and Saturday’s headliner, Kraftwerk. This year, the ongoing Palestine-Gaza conflict (2023 Israel-Hamas War) was a significant influence, with Palestinian flags visible in the crowd and on stage—a rare sight at a Japanese festival where flags are not typically prominent.

The NGO Village featured several booths encouraging support for various activist movements. Greenpeace and Climate Life focused on environmental sustainability, while No Nukes addressed Japan’s nuclear history, including Hiroshima, Nagasaki, and Fukushima. Among these, the Médecins du Monde Japon (MdM) booth stood out, offering a glimpse into the crucial work they do in regions affected by political unrest and war.

Médecins du Monde provides life-saving medical aid and fosters medical professionals in war-torn areas. This year, their booth emphasized support for Palestine-Gaza, where the current conflict began less than a year ago. Their efforts go beyond physical medical support; they also offer mental health aid, particularly for children affected by the trauma of war. This dual focus on physical and mental wellness is vital, as it addresses the often-overlooked psychological impact of conflict.

MdM educates and empowers local citizens with medical skills to help one another, ensuring sustainable support even in the absence of outside aid. Their work includes providing counseling services and bringing moments of joy and hope to children during these difficult times. At their booth, they engaged festival-goers by offering face painting of Fuji Rock’s mascot, Gon-chan, and accepting donations to directly support their cause.

The NGO Village at Fuji Rock Festival 2024 may not always get the recognition it deserves, but the dedicated non-profits like Médecins du Monde Japon continue to make a significant impact. They remind us of the festival’s deep-rooted beliefs in activism and the importance of supporting global humanitarian efforts.

Koichi’s set was a unique blend of Japan’s musical history, spinning on two decks with a stack of 45s (7-inch records). He kicked off with an enka (traditional Japanese music) cover of The Beatles’ “Yellow Submarine”— a delightful surprise that set the tone for the rest of his performance. The set was a musical journey through the Showa era, highlighting the evolution of various genres over the decades.

One of the most charming aspects of Koichi’s performance was his interaction with the records and the audience. He carefully displayed each retro record at the front of the booth as they spun, dancing animatedly with expressive hands and a beaming smile. His joy was infectious, perhaps a reflection of both the nostalgic music and the significance of this year marking his 25th Fuji Rock for the festival’s 25th anniversary.

Among the standout tracks from Koichi’s 40-minute set were “Niagra Ondo” by Fumio Nunoya and “Damede Motomoto” by Kiyoko Suizenji. For the grand finale, Koichi played “Naeba Ondo” by Maruyama Kyoko, a song deeply woven into Fuji Rock’s tradition as the anthem for the Thursday night kick-off party’s Bon Odori (traditional Japanese festival dance). It was a perfect closing to an unforgettable set by a legendary DJ who continues to celebrate and honor the rich tapestry of Japanese music blending with worldly tunes.

Jonathan
“I wish I could juggle, but I just can’t. I can, however, snap my fingers very well. I am very excited for this year’s festival, especially Kraftwerk and Shibusashirasu. I hope it isn’t too hot or rainy!”

Nina
“The only reason I have my phone out during live shows is because, that screen is the only way I can see the stage! I’m excited to see Awich, and to discover all the emerging artists at the Rookie A Go-Go stage!”

Park
“In high school, I was too lazy to learn to read music so I chose to play the drums in marching band. This year I’m excited to catch a lot of interesting electronic artists, namely PAS TASTA, Floating Points, Kraftwerk, peterparker69 and E.O.U. Also one of my favorite Japanese artists, group_inou has reunited after a long hiatus and I can’t wait to catch them live for the first time in over 9 years.”

Sean
“I’m from Cleveland, which is home to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame! I’m dying to see Fontaines DC, and for my hipster pals, Glass Beams. I also want to see how Jesus &Mary Chain are holding up after 40 years. Definitely excited for seeing some good music and getting a little muddy and sweaty with all the good friends I have made at Fuji Rock over 20 years”

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