[J-Pop/Rock] A roundup of bands with cool singing bassists
When you think of someone playing an instrument and singing in a rock band, most people picture a guitarist-vocalist.
In reality, it’s most common for the guitarist to stand at the front, and it’s relatively rare for members of the rhythm section—like the bassist or drummer—to handle lead vocals.
That’s precisely why bands with a bassist as the lead vocalist tend to be distinctive and unique.
In this article, we highlight Japanese bands that feature a bass-vocalist, introducing them across different eras and genres.
You might even discover that the singer in a band you love has actually been singing while playing the bass!
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[J-Pop] A roundup of cool bands with bassist-vocalists (41–50)
CaneléCoelacanth
A rock band from Nara Prefecture, formed in 2015 by members who once played together in a band called OVERACTION.
The nostalgic vocals of bassist-singer Ma-to weave one good melody after another.
On top of that, their music is packed with appeal: catchy guitar riffs, danceable drum beats, and songs with a melodic hardcore vibe that hark back to their OVERACTION days.
road; way; path; street; route; Tao (in philosophy)The Sketchbook
A three-piece rock band that came together through a unique process born from an audition project to choose the musicians who would perform the Sket-dan’s live scenes and the songs they would play in the story arc “Kaimei Rock Festival,” depicted in the series SKET DANCE, which ran in Weekly Shonen Jump and was adapted into an anime on TV Tokyo.
As a project originating from the anime, their catchy and aggressive musical style is particularly striking.
Liar Barbie-ologyusotsuki bābī
Formed in Sasebo, Nagasaki in 2002, Usotsuki Barbie is a three-piece band consisting of Yusuke Iwashita (bass & vocals), Toshiyasu Chifu, and Shigeru Toyoda.
They made their debut in March 2007 with the mini-album “Kodomo no Fukumiguse,” drawing attention for their outlandish lyrics, addictive melodies, and wild live performances.
In April 2011, they made their major-label debut with the album “Nininini.” Their music has a mysterious charm that evokes the imaginative worlds of childhood, blending nostalgia and freshness—perfect for listeners drawn to a distinctive, self-contained universe.
My beloved, be prepared to die.Shinkai (Onmyo-za)
The leader of Onmyo-za, a band known as a “yokai heavy metal” act.
He’s the command center, handling bass, vocals, and writing and composing nearly all of their songs.
While Onmyo-za often performs anime songs, hearing Matatabi’s voice will surely bring the phrase “anison rock” to mind! His voice is fantastic; his greatest weapon is a powerful, deep low register that contrasts with main vocalist Kuroneko’s high tones.
Despite its depth, his voice is very easy to understand.
Matatabi is also famous for never stopping once he starts talking on stage.
With passionate MCs, a compelling delivery, and staging that makes full use of his height, he draws the audience in and builds the band’s world.
X XUNICORN
UNICORN is known for their groovy bass that makes clever use of rests, as epitomized by the song “Peké Peké.” You might strongly associate the band with frontman and guitarist Tamio Okuda on vocals, but in fact, there are many songs where bassist EBI handles the lead vocals! His voice is rich and gentle, making for a very comforting listen.
The bass lines also feature frequent hammer-ons—phrases where the left-hand fingers strike the strings—which will have you humming along before you know it!
I only want to sing for myselfNon Stop Rabbit
“Shimensouka” is a track by Non Stop Rabbit that highlights the commanding presence of the bass-vocal.
Its driving, fast-paced bassline is pleasing to the ear and strongly showcases the band’s individuality.
The official music video is a must-see as well, with a unique harmony born from the rhythm section that captivates fans.
It’s available on YouTube, which likely contributes to its broad acceptance by making it easily accessible to everyone.
Through this song, Non Stop Rabbit presents a fresh appeal within the Japanese music scene.
EvergreenMaki
Maki is a three-piece band formed in 2015 in Nagoya.
Hibiki Yamamoto not only writes and composes their songs but also serves as the band’s central figure as the bassist and vocalist.
Since making their nationwide debut in January 2018 with the album “Heibon no Aishikata,” they have built on an emotional guitar-rock foundation while showcasing a wide range of styles—from 30-second melodic hardcore to lyrical ballads.
In September 2020, they embarked on a 50-date tour titled “Daisushi,” many of which sold out.
Yamamoto’s literary lyrics combined with powerful bass playing vividly portray the struggles of youth and resonate with listeners.
They are a perfect band for music fans seeking the stirring experience of emotional guitar rock.