Level 5 of the RCC played host to an insane collection of classic Japanese punk rock last week. Friday night saw the Jet Boys joined by a last minute addition to the Fringe, the 5,6,7,8’s, consisting of Sachiko and Yoshiko “Ronnie” Fujiyama, two sisters from Tokyo, for Tokyo Jet Daze
Opening the night early were Adelaide four piece female punk rockets, Stabbitha and the Knifey Wifeys. Their infectious energy on stage was the perfect way to get the crowd hyped.
Soon after the Jet Boys hit the stage with their manic stage show. Mayhem, nudity and radishes all featured. “Bliztkreig Bop” and “My Way” managed to make an enjoyable appearance in the set. It really is an unbelievably insane show to witness.
Contrast that to the calm and ordered 5,6,7,8’s, with their sensible suits and beehives playing an enjoyable surf rock set. The trio are fascinating to watch. They seem full of contradictions; sensible girls playing oversized guitars singing Japanese punk rock songs. It was fun to watch.
Guitar Wolf were billed to play on the Saturday night with the 5,6,7,8s playing again. As I left, members of the band were wandering the room posing for photos with fans.
Tokyo Jet Daze was the perfect primer for top notch Japanese punk rock.
FOUR STARS (OUT OF FIVE)
Tokyo Jet Daze: A Japanese Punk Weekender has now concluded. The reviewer attended the Friday night show. Adelaide Fringe Festival runs until March 15th.
