Without doubt we have here amongst the finest examples of musicianship and marching precision, albeit of a kind that honours the military tradition. Convention is safe with such a competition! With the exception of Naragaku’s leather clad ensemble, any hint of enjoyment is banished. The expression of stern discipline is the norm. We even see some of the most macho saluting possible, with lady DMs doing their best to emulate. If ladies are present amongst the musicians, it is hard to tell; confined as they are in a fine display of pastiche 19th c. uniforms. Females recognisable as such are relegated to the colour guard role where convention dictates they belong. Perhaps the Yokohama Robins best exemplify the event’s spirit, by presenting an ode to Napoleonic tyranny. It is a strange display. He marched millions to a miserable military fate. So what are we seeing here; a celebration of similar subjugation?