[J-Pop] A Compilation of Songs with Awesome Drums [2026]

city[Alexandros]

[Alexandros] – city (MV) @ALEXANDROSchannel

It’s one of [Alexandros]’s early signature songs, and the drummer at the time was Akitaka Sōmura.

Speaking of Sōmura, he’s often cited as a top-tier drummer in the Japanese rock scene of the 2010s.

Among the drum phrases in this track, the standout is definitely the tight groove in the intro.

Hearing an intro driven primarily by drums must have made many drummers think, “I want to play this song!” Beyond that, there are plenty of drum-focused moments worth noting, including flexible phrases that follow the song’s development and crisp fills.

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Hane Keisuke

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BURNTHE YELLOW MONKEY

THE YELLOW MONKEY – BURN

This work is striking for its tense, pulse-pounding drum rhythm.

Combined with Kazuya Yoshii’s passionate vocals, it powerfully shakes the listener’s heart.

Released in July 1997, it became a popular song that was also used as the theme for the TBS drama “Shokuinshitsu” (The Staff Room).

In a 2013 fan poll it placed 10th, and it has been included on best-of albums, remaining beloved for many years.

The lyrics depict inner conflict and emotional shifts, conveying a strong will to move forward despite being hurt.

It’s a song whose deep appeal resonates more as you grow older.

All the more reason to listen to it when you’re struggling with work or relationships.

Wind and MemoryToe

Wind and Memory

The track included on the album NOW I SEE THE LIGHT, released in July 2024, is a tour de force and toe’s first full-length album in nine years.

Celebrated as an instrumental piece imbued with subtle sentiment, it captivates listeners over approximately 4 minutes and 16 seconds.

Particularly noteworthy is Takashi Kashikura’s drumming—arrangements that highlight irregular meters and delicate touch deliver a quiet yet profound impact.

Influenced by post-rock and math rock, the band’s unique musical style features ethereal yet intricate rhythms and melodies.

Combining both power and delicacy that stir emotion and thought, this work is sure to be an ultimate auditory experience for music lovers.

In the blue-green eyesAve Mujica

In the blue-green eyes

You’ll be captivated by its grand, dramatic worldbuilding.

This work by Ave Mujica, the heavy metal band born from the BanG Dream! project, is set for release in September 2025.

It was selected as the theme song for a collaboration campaign with the smartphone RPG Arknights.

The mighty sound and dreamlike melodies weave a breathtaking atmosphere.

Immerse yourself in its gothic, mysterious vibe.

Become a flowerRyokushokushakai

Ryokuoushoku Shakai “Become a Flower” Official Video / Ryokuoushoku Shakai – Be a Flower

This track is Ryokuoushoku Shakai’s eighth single and serves as the opening theme for the TV anime “The Apothecary Diaries.” Although it was released in December 2023, it had been available for early streaming about two months prior.

The lyrics, centered on self-love and personal growth, beautifully capture the personality of the anime’s protagonist, Maomao, and resonate deeply with listeners.

The song’s catchy, addictive feel—highlighted by its lively guitar riffs and memorable piano phrases—was crafted in response to a request from the anime’s production side.

Within the band ensemble, which showcases technical performances from each member, drummer Hiroshi Kido’s recording stands out: while supporting the overall structure, he weaves tasteful phrases into a simple beat to create a distinctive sense of drive.

Be sure to listen closely.

Thank youSUPER BEAVER

SUPER BEAVER “Arigatou” MV (Band ver.)

If you enjoy drumming that unfolds dramatically in sync with the music, I recommend SUPER BEAVER’s songs.

Among them, their signature track “Arigatou” may seem simple at first, but a closer listen reveals a wealth of diverse beats and phrases, along with compelling hits and accents.

If you can play drums, try learning it and playing it yourself.

You’ll likely notice tasty phrases and a sense of groove that you might have missed when listening just as a listener.

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Hane Keisuke

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nakano kill youRin to shite Shigure

nakano kill you

It’s full of intricate, dynamic playing, yet the timekeeping is precise.

It’s the kind of performance any drummer would admire.

Ling tosite sigure’s “nakano kill you” appears on their 2007 album Inspiration is DEAD—an ambitious work known for its unpredictable song structures.

And pay attention to the word “nakano” in the title: it bears the name of the drummer, Pierre Nakano.

That’s how prominently Nakano’s drumming is featured in this piece.

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Araki Jakkan

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