The 2021 edition of Fuji Rock Festival should have been a breakthrough moment for Japan’s live music scene. After COVID-19 canceled last summer’s slate of music gatherings, many hoped this August to be a return to semi-normalcy and a chance for a financially battered industry to begin rebounding.

It hasn’t played out that way. Fellow major summer events Rock in Japan Festival and Rising Sun Rock Festival were canceled yet again due to an increase in new infections, which continue to rise across the country. Fuji Rock will press on, holding a “Special Fuji Rock under Special Circumstances” from Aug. 20 to 22 in Naeba, Niigata Prefecture.

The usual excitement that surrounds the gathering seems to be lacking, though. Attendance will be limited, there will be fewer stages, shortened hours and no alcohol allowed. For many, watching livestreamed performances on YouTube will be the main way to experience the proceedings. While that’s a welcome option, after 17 months of pretending at-home concerts on your laptop can take the place of that summer festival vibe, the format really just reminds us of how nothing has gone back to “normal.” That Fuji Rock is happening at all while the country goes through a COVID-19 surge that is significantly worse than last summer also feels unsettling.