[Raise Your Fists!!] Introduction to Japanese Emotional Rock Bands
These days, the word “emoi” has come into wide use, and its supposed origin is the music genre emo.
Derived from punk and hardcore, it’s characterized by emotionally charged performances, introspective lyrics, and a musicality where intensity and beauty coexist.
Although the genre originated overseas, many bands in Japan have been influenced by it, and numerous emo bands have thrived domestically.
In this article, we’ll introduce bands that play this kind of emotional rock.
Rather than the general nuance of “emoi,” we’ve prioritized bands with roots in genre terms like hardcore, emo, and screamo.
Of course, we’ll also feature bands that feel “emoi” in a broader sense, so take your time and enjoy.
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- A high-energy band number! A hype, crowd-pleasing track with male vocals.
- Cool band: A rock band that represents Japan
- Emotional songs you’ll want to listen to in summer: classic tracks by rock bands and singer-songwriters.
- A compilation of cool Japanese rock band songs. Recommended tracks for cover bands.
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- Packed with slap groove vibes! A collection of songs with cool bass
- [J-Rock] Timeless masterpieces that colored the 1990s. Nostalgic hit songs.
- Guaranteed to move your emotions! Emo songs released in the Reiwa era
Raise Your Fists!! Introduction to Japanese Emotional Rock Bands (21–30)
Maximum the Hormone II ~Let’s Talk About Firm, Rich Noodles from Here On~Ryo-kun (Maximum the Hormone)
He’s the vocalist, guitarist, and primary songwriter of Maximum the Hormone—the core of the band who goes by the title “Vocals, 6-strings, and Younger Brother.” Ryo-kun’s standout strengths are his overwhelming vocal power and razor-sharp shouts.
Even within the loud rock scene, his sound pressure is top-tier.
His weapon is a “controlled shout” that isn’t just screaming: it has pitch, precise rhythm, and never collapses into strain.
He also switches between a variety of vocal techniques, brilliantly balancing metal-style delivery with pop melodies.
The vibe of his voice changes so much you’ll find yourself wondering, “Is this really the same person singing?” Definitely check him out!
REVIVERMY FIRST STORY
MY FIRST STORY is a rock band formed in 2011.
Their appeal lies in a fantastical worldview and loud guitar sound.
The song in the video was used as a theme song for the mobile game “Hortensia Saga: Blue Knights,” among other placements.
Run RunMONOEYES
A project launched by Takeshi Hosomi in 2015.
Although it initially started as a solo project, the other three members entered the studio not as supporting players but with the vibe of forming a band.
There’s even an anecdote that the instant they struck the first note, it was decided they would move forward as a band.
Their sound blends high-quality melodies that evoke a revival of the 2000s with a West Coast vibe that feels somehow nostalgic, creating an exceptionally comfortable listening experience.
BrotherhoodNothing’s Carved In Stone
Formed in 2008.
It is said to have started when guitarist Shinichi Ubukata’s band went on hiatus, prompting him to reach out to bassist Hidekazu Hinata, whom he had wanted to jam with.
Drummer Takanori “Takashi” Ohtaki joined through Hinata’s introduction.
Afterwards, they became interested in Taku Muramatsu, who was singing in a band they discovered on MySpace; they went to see him live, and he subsequently joined.
With emotional guitar sounds and meticulously crafted production, they continue to captivate rock fans.
A Beautiful LieTHE ORAL CIGARETTES
THE ORAL CIGARETTES is a four-piece rock band whose emotional lyrics and heavy sound strike a chord.
Formed in 2010, they made their major debut in 2014.
Their distinctive deep-toned voice paired with soaring high vocals is captivating.
Their album “Kisses and Kills,” released in June 2018, reached No.
1 on the Oricon Weekly Ranking.
Their diverse musicality is another hallmark, ranging from dance rock that leverages intense rhythms to tear-jerking ballads.
Enigmatic FeelingRin to shite Shigure
Ling tosite sigure is a band known for their high-level musicianship and vocals, highlighted by TK’s soaring high-tone voice.
Their songs—born from a guitar drenched in delay, a bass with solid core, and drums that combine dazzling fills with rock-steady stability—never fail to astonish listeners.
Blue SpringSUPER BEAVER
Let me introduce SUPER BEAVER, a four-piece band that plays emotional guitar rock.
Formed in 2005, they made their major debut in 2009.
They’re also well known for contributing many theme songs to anime, including Haikyu!!.
The strong bonds between the members and their distinctive personalities are part of their appeal.
Shibuya Ryota’s moving onstage talks and Yanagisawa Ryota’s exceptional skills as a composer are especially noteworthy.
Their music, where intensity and beauty coexist, truly embodies the essence of emo.