If you're a fan of rock music and bound for Japan this summer, then you're in luck. Between now and September, four major festivals will take place, with stellar lineups of mainly international talent. The most impressive bill belongs to the inaugural Rock Odyssey (
www.udo.co.jp/odyssey). Held simultaneously from July 24-25 at the Yokohama Arena and Osaka Dome, the show features Aerosmith, the Who, Red Hot Chili Peppers and Lenny Kravitz. Following hot on its heels is the progenitor of Japan's alternative-music festival scene, the Fuji Rock Festival (
fujirockfestival.com), from July 30-Aug. 1. This year, it will showcase nearly a hundred acts, among them Lou Reed, the Pixies, the White Stripes, Courtney Love and Franz Ferdinand. Pitched at a slightly younger audience is the two-day Summer Sonic fest (
summersonic.com/top.html), on Aug. 7-8. Held in Tokyo and Osaka simultaneously, the four-year-old event will present the currently red-hot Avril Lavigne, along with the Beastie Boys, Green Day, N.E.R.D. and Sum 41. Finally, the more underground True People's Celebration (
www.organicgroove.com) will finish up the summer festival season in early September, with reggae pioneer Jimmy Cliff headlining. Check the websites for ticket and transport details.
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