RAG MusicBand
A wonderful Japanese music band

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.

Dresscodes' classic and popular songs (11–20)

Another Girl, Another PlanetDoresukōzu

Another Girl, Another Planet / the dresscodes × Shinji Takeda
Another Girl, Another PlanetDoresukōzu

It’s a cover of The Only Ones.

For this live performance, they welcomed Shinji Takeda on saxophone.

They translated the lyrics into Japanese and added their own arrangement.

While preserving the UK punk vibe, it gives an impression of heightened punk and rock energy.

Like an animeDoresukōzu

The Dresscodes – Like an Anime
Like an animeDoresukōzu

Music packed with philosophical words can be considered an artistic work.

“Anime Mitaina,” included on The Dresscodes’ 2014 release “1,” is a track wrapped in a jazzy, moody atmosphere.

Its exotic guitar work and deep synth sounds are captivating.

The lyrics, themed around “anime,” which has become a national pastime, seem like a challenge posed to the modern age.

It’s a song I’d recommend to those seeking truly unique Japanese music or who have a taste for literature.

TrashDoresukōzu

Dresscodes – Trash (medium version)
TrashDoresukōzu

After The Mairs’ breakup at the end of 2011, this was the first song officially released as a dresscodes track in July 2012.

With guitar sounds reminiscent of classic Western rock ’n’ roll and Ryohei Shima’s languid vocals, it stands as a signature song from the band’s early period.

True to its title, “Trash,” the lyrics string together self-destructive and pessimistic lines, yet perhaps thanks to its catchy rock sound, it also conveys a defiant, forward-looking spirit—like saying, “We’re not done yet!”

My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?Doresukōzu

the dresscodes [LIVE] 'Eli, Eli, Lema Sabachthani' (from 'ID10+ TOUR')
My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?Doresukōzu

How about an up-tempo, stylish jazz number? It’s included on their sixth album, “Jazz,” released in 2019.

The title means “Why does God forsake me?” The piece has a reckless, devil-may-care worldview, as if singing half in resignation about one’s own flaws.

Yet both the phrasing and the musical vibe carry Shima’s signature sense of chic.

And that vocal style…

it really makes you want to try it at karaoke.

being apartDoresukōzu

the dresscodes - “Hanareteiru” Music Video
being apartDoresukōzu

Listening to classical or jazz music can really soothe the mind, can’t it? Dresscodes’ 2021 release “Hanarete Iru” evokes a grand theme.

Its beautiful strings and piano tones are striking, giving a sense of spacious sound.

The worldview is captivating, conjuring images of various great figures such as painters and writers.

It even carries a beauty reminiscent of contemporary art.

If you like post-rock bands like Sigur Rós, give it a listen.

bande dessinéeDoresukōzu

Bande dessinée Dresscodes guitar cover
bande dessinéeDoresukōzu

The title track of their second album, released in 2013, is this “Bande Dessinée.” Originally, “bande dessinée” is a French term for comics, and from the Merzbow-era—sorry, from the Maezawa Fur’s Maries era—Shima has had a distinctive habit of using words like “comic” and “shōnen manga” in song titles and lyrics.

The way he weaves these uncommon, striking words into titles and verses is one of the appealing quirks of his songwriting.

This track, with its crisp rock sound, catchy, familiar melody line, and lyrics that reflect on a worldview, can be seen as a song that encapsulates the essence of early The Dresscodes.

The Dresscodes’ Classic and Popular Songs (21–30)

SloganDoresukōzu

The Dresscodes – Slogan (AUDITION VIDEO)
SloganDoresukōzu

“Slogan,” included on Audition, released in 2015.

Opening with technical guitar work, this track is a rock number brimming with a sense of speed.

Precisely because of its simple band setup, you can really feel the intent behind each instrument.

Its subtly lo-fi atmosphere evokes post-rock from the UK and Iceland.

The lyrics, literary like tanka or poetry, are also compelling.

It offers encouragement to those who, while struggling through everyday life, refuse to give up on love or on living.