Who says festival music all needs to be either loud or danceable? Specifically Red Marquee acts. Can’t it occasionally be beautiful and stripped down and contemplative? Aoba Ichiko, with her Friday early evening set, showed that, though it isn’t easy, it is very much possible. If you are as talented as she is.

Her set saw her seated before projected earthtone kaleidoscopic images. Just her, a few lamps and lights, a guitar, and a piano. She displayed a voice that was both confident and fragile at the same time, which is a beautiful and rare thing. Her set filled the Red Marquee tent in a way that few can, gracefully. Just her voice and a tiny bit of instrumentation were more than enough for her to do it.

Highlights like Sagu Palm’s Song and Ichinokori Bokura demonstrated how a little bit of peace and calm can be the best gift one can give oneself in the middle of a big, loud festival. And the quiet, respectful reception from the packed audience further proved the point.