The Dresscodes’ best and most popular songs
The Dresscodes is a rock band formed around Ryohei Shima, who was formerly active as the vocalist of Kegawa no Maries.
Their appeal lies in songs that transcend both eras and genres—from tracks reminiscent of the British rock ’n’ roll Shima admires, to danceable numbers that make full use of programming, and even songs with a distinctly Japanese pop sensibility.
In this article, we’ll introduce a selection of must-listen tracks from their catalog all at once! From fist-pumping rock to catchy, easy-listening tunes, immerse yourself in the world of The Dresscodes crafted by Shima.
The Dresscodes’ Greatest and Most Popular Songs (1–10)
Be careful with love.Doresukōzu
A catchy piece that makes you think, “Maybe being selfish is what makes you who you are.” It closes out their third album, ‘1,’ released in 2014.
The groove-heavy arrangement built around a four-on-the-floor beat is incredibly easy on the ears—your body starts swaying before you know it.
And the lyric “Love is a lie!” carries a message that’s so quintessentially Shima.
This full-throttle sense of self, this freedom—that’s exactly what The Dresscodes are all about.
GhostDoresukōzu
The dresscodes are a rock band that expresses music from every angle.
“Ghost,” included on their 2014 release Hippies E.P., is a track where airy synth sounds and guitar rock match beautifully.
Ryohei Shima’s sweet, gentle voice resonates with the heart.
The lyrics, which depict a pure heart, are filled with honest feelings.
If you like melodic tracks from the US or UK, give it a listen! Their unique sound will captivate you.
human videoDoresukōzu
This song, included on the 2017 album “Heibon,” served as the theme song for the film “GANTZ:O.” Its blood-soaked, shocking music video became a hot topic, and a censored version with mosaic blurring was also released.
In stark contrast to the dark impression at the beginning, the chorus unfolds with the fresh, signature style of The Dresscodes.
Super, super sadDoresukōzu
Super, Super Sad, which evokes UK rock like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones, is a track we’d love you to listen to when you’re feeling sentimental.
Its near-clean guitar tone and simple performance create an emotional mood.
While the beauty of the melody line stands out, the lyrics overflowing with kindness are also captivating.
The dry strumming and single-note guitar solo feel like an homage to Western rock.
Give this wistful rock ’n’ roll a listen—something you’ll find yourself humming when you’re feeling lonely.
LolitaDoresukōzu
This song, included on the first album “the dresscodes” released in 2012, is one of the signature tracks of the early dresscodes.
Unlike the classic rock ’n’ roll flavor of the Kegawa no Maries era and other early dresscodes songs, it feels more like an intensely impulsive wall-of-sound rock.
In live performances, it was sometimes played at a faster tempo, resulting in an even more spontaneous and energetic performance.
Van GoghDoresukōzu
This song, whose opening features an impressive poetry-reading style aligned with a drum beat, is the first track on their second album, Bande Dessinée, released in 2013.
Once it moves into the A section, a catchy and comfortable melody unfolds, carried by Shima’s husky vocals alongside guitar sounds reminiscent of classic rock—their signature charm.
The lyrics contain messages that can be read as Shima’s perspective on life as well as advice to young people.
Because the message is easy to connect with for anyone, I recommend listening while following along with the lyrics.
thiefDoresukōzu
It’s a punchy rock tune with a punkish vibe! It’s included on their second album, “Bande Dessinée,” released in 2013.
Crackling, distorted guitar tones, powerful drumming, and Shima’s husky vocals—every slice of it is cool.
The slightly bittersweet lyrics, likening a greedy self to a thief, are also captivating.
In just about two minutes, the Dresscodes’ musical essence is packed in tight.
Luxury and humorDoresukōzu
It’s precisely when you feel lonely or isolated that bright, catchy music can give you strength.
“Luxury and Humor,” included on The Dresscodes’ 2015 release Audition, is a song packed with humorous charm.
Its dazzling brass band and pop melodies resonate with a classical flair.
Pay attention to the lyrics that portray real, everyday loneliness and isolation.
The track, which blends the joys and hardships of life, offers a truly unique appeal.
Give it a listen if you’re into music that traces back to the roots of Black music and soul.
Peter IversDoresukōzu
This song, with its pleasantly crisp acoustic guitar tones, was included as the final track on the seventh album, “Bayer,” released in 2021, and was chosen as the theme song for the animated film “On-Gaku: Our Sound,” based on the original work by Hiroyuki Ohashi and directed by Kenji Iwaisawa.
The song bears the name of Peter Ivers, an American musician with a devoted cult following.
It feels as though both the lyrics and the title express a musical culture so expansive and deep that it can’t be neatly summed up by words like “Music is freedom.”
You demon!Doresukōzu
When your heart feels restless, you want to blow off steam with impulsive music, don’t you? “Kono Akumame,” included on the dresscodes’ 2014 release “1,” is an emotional track filled with a sense of speed.
Its up-tempo, fast-unfolding sound would definitely boost your energy when heard live! If you like philosophical punk rock like THE BLUE HEARTS, give it a listen.
The groove, momentum, and beautiful melodies will resonate with your heart.