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Classic Japanese rock songs recommended for autumn

There are so many songs themed around autumn or that give off an autumnal vibe, aren’t there?

Unlike summer songs, which are often upbeat, autumn songs tend to carry a sense of wistfulness and nostalgia.

In this article, we’ll introduce a selection of autumn songs crafted by Japanese rock bands.

From the obvious hits that come to mind to hidden gems, we’ve picked out a wide variety.

Listening to these tracks while reading the lyrics might be perfect for those long autumn nights.

Take this opportunity to sit back and enjoy them to the fullest.

Classic Japanese rock songs recommended for autumn (41–50)

Autumn sky or an orange duskKanoerana

Kanoerana is a singer-songwriter who made her major-label debut in 2016.

When it comes to her autumn-themed songs, “Aki no Sora Mata wa Orenji no Yuugure” (Autumn Sky or Orange Dusk) comes to mind.

Reading a bit of the lyrics first might make you brace yourself and think, “Is this a heavy song…?” but that impression should vanish once you listen.

The light accompaniment features a refreshingly resonant guitar sound, and the melody, sung with a buoyant rhythm, feels delightful.

Toward the end of the track, the lyrics convey a bright, forward-looking sentiment, so be sure to follow along with the words and listen to the very end.

Classic Japanese rock songs recommended for autumn (51–60)

Crescent Moon SunsetSakanakushon

Sakanaction / Crescent Moon Sunset -Music Video-
Crescent Moon SunsetSakanakushon

Sakanaction is a five-piece rock band that captivates fans with their meticulous commitment to sound, both live and in the studio.

“Mikazuki Sunset,” included on their debut album GO TO THE FUTURE, is a track they’ve been performing since their pre-major days as the precursor band, Dutchman.

The lyrics, which evoke the image of the moon appearing as the sun sets, convey a desire to change something even while struggling through the repetition of everyday life.

It’s a stylish pop tune whose tight yet expansive sound echoes the moon’s mystique.

Even if the moon cannot be seen tonightPorunogurafiti

Porno Graffitti 'Even If the Moon Can't Be Seen Tonight' (ROYAL STRAIGHT FLUSH 2009) / 'Koyoi, Tsuki ga Miezutomo (Live Ver.)'
Even if the moon cannot be seen tonightPorunogurafiti

Porno Graffitti is a two-piece rock band that has been racking up awards in various contests since their amateur days and has kept up that momentum after their major debut.

Their 27th single, “Koyoi, Tsuki ga Miezutomo” (Even If the Moon Cannot Be Seen Tonight), used as the theme song for the film Bleach: Fade to Black, was produced under the concept of creating “a new signature song” to mark the 10th anniversary of their debut.

The lyrics, which evoke contradiction and aimlessness, align with the idea of the moon’s presence—undeniably there even when unseen.

With its hysteric synth sounds and lyrical melody, it’s a rock tune you’ll want to listen to whether the moon is visible or not.

Yabai T-Shirts Yasanaki

A mixed-gender three-piece rock band, ‘Yabai T-Shirts Yasan,’ brings an energizing autumn song, “Autumn.” I just introduced them as a rock band, but they’re a curious group that also carries hardcore and even comic-band elements—you all know them by now, right? This track “Autumn” leans more toward comical lyrics, bursting with an upbeat vibe driven by the concept of “What comes to mind when you think of autumn?” That said, the intro riff repeats at key moments, and the sound is seriously cool.

Highly recommended not only for guitar kids, but also for anyone who hasn’t heard Yaba-T yet!

language of flowersMr.Children

It’s a song by Mr.Children that seems to portray the sadness of parting, using cosmos—the autumn flower—as its motif.

The band sound has a calm, gentle atmosphere, and the inclusion of acoustic textures and keyboard tones lends it an otherworldly, floating feel.

Cosmos carry meanings like “maiden’s pure heart,” “harmony,” and “humility,” but it’s said that at the demo stage the word appeared simply because it fit the melody, without knowing those meanings.

The lyrics depict being told goodbye and the accompanying emotional shifts, conveying an outpouring of sorrow and regret.

gentianWANIMA

WANIMA "Rindou" OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO
gentianWANIMA

Rindō is a track included on the October 2019 album COMINATCHA!!.

It was originally performed only at live shows, and fans had long requested an official recording.

The lyrics, which sing about the importance of overcoming any hardship and living true to yourself, offer comfort to listeners.

It’s a perfect song to enjoy in the season when you can feel the autumn breeze.

SeptemberAndrop

androp “ September” Official Music Video
SeptemberAndrop

The four-piece rock band androp has gained popularity with songs that feature listener-centric messages and a transparent, airy vocal tone.

Their digital single “September,” released on September 7, 2022, offers a comforting, emotional ensemble that evokes 1990s power pop.

The lyrics, which recall the trials of youthful romance that never quite goes as planned, are sure to stir the heart alongside a slightly wistful melody.

It’s a lyrical number perfectly suited to the sentimental season of autumn.