[Neo-Visual Kei] A roundup of popular songs by V-kei bands from the 2000s
Visual kei, which reached its golden age in the 1990s and produced hits that ranked high on the Oricon charts, is now embraced overseas as a culture that transcends a Japanese music genre—so much so that the term “Visual kei” appears on Wikipedia.
Within the 30-plus-year history of V-kei, this article spotlights popular songs by the so-called “Neo-Visual Kei” bands of the 2000s.
We’ve compiled a selection of classics—hugely influential on today’s Visual kei bands—focusing on releases from the 2000s, spanning both major-label and indie acts.
Whether those years were your youth or you’ve only recently gotten into V-kei, enjoy!
- Iconic songs by Japanese rock bands from the 2000s [J-Rock]
- A classic masterpiece of visual kei. A staple and popular song representing V-kei rock.
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- Debut song of a 90s visual kei band
- Anisongs that were hits in the 2000s: a nostalgic collection of legendary tracks
- A melancholic “yami” song that was a hit in the 2000s. A bittersweet track.
- Nothing but iconic hits that defined an era! 2000s classics popular on TikTok
- Nostalgic even though it’s recent? Iconic 2010s songs that went viral on TikTok
- All big hits! A roundup of classic J‑Pop songs that were popular in 2000
- [Heisei Songs] Classic hits from the Heisei era that are popular on Instagram Reels
- Popular Heisei-era songs you can use on Instagram Stories
- Love songs that were hits in the 2000s. Classic and popular Japanese songs.
- Japanese Music of the 2000s: Revival Included! A J-POP Hit Song Special
[Neo-Visual Kei] A roundup of popular songs by 2000s Visual Kei bands (1–10)
anachro filmbarokku
Baroque, the rock band that gained popularity with their rough look and genre-defying musicality and are said to be the pioneers of the “osare-kei” style.
The track Anachro Film, which opens their best-of album brq 2001-2004, leaves a strong impression with its shuffle-beat ensemble featuring noisy guitar sounds.
The lyrics, which evoke a hint of madness, meld with the hysterical sound to create an addictive effect.
It’s a rock tune that stands out as something anomalous even within the visual kei genre, drawing listeners into its uniquely original world.
You, who saved me as I was about to drown in a rotten sea.kagerou
Kagerou was a rock band in which all members composed songs, and despite being independent, they were highly acclaimed for their wide-ranging musicality.
Their 12th single, “You Saved Me When I Was About to Drown in a Rotten Sea,” was used as the ending theme for the late-night information program “Super V.I.P.” Its lyrics, which evoke the image of parting with someone dear, resonate deeply alongside a rich, layered ensemble.
It is one of Kagerou’s signature songs, debuting at No.
1 on the Oricon indie chart and reaching No.
21 on the major chart.
RAINBOWSArisu Kyū Gō.
Alice Nine is a five-piece rock band whose concept is to constantly entertain listeners, with genre-defying musicality and live shows where all members put down their instruments to dance.
Their 12th single, “RAINBOWS,” features a band ensemble that blends an ear-catching introductory guitar riff with synth sounds to lift your spirits.
While retaining the distinctive shadow of visual kei, its pop melodies convey an evolution of the genre that feels different from the 1990s.
It’s a cool rock tune that invites you to pay special attention to the technical guitar solo.
AdoreLynch.
Lynch.
is a five-member rock band whose songs, conscious of aggressive band sounds like metal, hardcore, and screamo paired with catchy melodies, captivate fans.
The single Adore, released on April 8, 2008, makes a strong impact with an ensemble that brings the guitar sound to the forefront and powerful vocals.
Its complex and mysterious lyrics carry on the traditions of classic visual kei culture.
It’s a technical number marked by an impressive blend of death growls and clean vocals.
ShikosahokoAyabie
A song by the five-member visual kei rock band Ayabie, who announced their return to activity in 2019.
The title is the name “Shinkon-san Hong Kong” with the final “n” removed, and it appears as a track on their debut single, “From the Water Tank, Three People,” which was released in a limited run of 2,000 copies.
The song is packed with highlights, showcasing each member: it kicks off with a catchy guitar riff, features a bass solo in the interlude, high-tempo drumming, and a fluid twin-lead guitar solo over a metal-style riff.