[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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Raise Your Fists!! Introduction to Japanese Emotional Rock Bands (21–30)
Heroamazarashi
The emotional rock band amazarashi from Aomori weaves a worldview that pierces deeply into listeners’ hearts.
Since their 2010 debut, they’ve released numerous memorable tracks, including “Kisetsu wa Tsugitsugi Shinde Iku.” In March 2017, they released the single “Sora ni Utaeba,” written as the theme song for the anime My Hero Academia.
Hiromu Akita’s powerful vocals and Manami Toyokawa’s keyboard craft a sonic landscape that seems to question the meaning of life.
Many of their songs find hope amid anguish and despair, so if you’re interested, be sure to check them out.
As an ex-boyfriendMy Hair is Bad
Formed in 2008 in Jōetsu, Niigata Prefecture.
The band name reportedly came from the time when, at the band’s formation, drummer Atsushi Yamada had a hairstyle like Baki Hanma, the protagonist of the manga Grappler Baki, and would say, “My Hair is Bad!!” The lyrics boldly lay bare the subtle shifts of emotion drawn from vocalist Tomomi Shiiki’s personal life, paired with melodies that stick after a single listen, all wrapped in a powerful, weighty rhythm section.
They’re a band whose hallmark is their raw, human feel.
Raise Your Fists!! Introducing Japanese Emotional Rock Bands (31–40)
Save the worldABSTRACT MASH
A band formed in Chiba Prefecture in 2004.
With a vocalist whose wild, dynamic voice, richly varied sound arrangements that impress even Western music aficionados, and high-quality melodies, they have a scale that feels beyond typical Japanese acts.
Known for their strong sense of groove and powerful, no-frills live performances, they garnered attention across the country.
After going on hiatus in 2011, they resumed activity in 2018 and released the album “SIGNALS” in 2023.
Correctbluebeard
Formed in 1997.
They deliver an expansive brand of emotional rock that could well be described as one of Japan’s finest.
The vocalist’s un-Japanese level of singing prowess is overwhelming.
Of course, the backing performance and intricate arrangements are also highly polished, and while the songs are suitably catchy, they reveal deeper layers the more you listen—showcasing an exceptional sense of artistry that leaves the competition far behind.
Carry OnLOCAL SOUND STYLE
A four-piece rock band from Aomori Prefecture often described as the Japanese version of The Get Up Kids.
Their melodies are both wistful and approachable, and vocalist Masahiro Araseki’s clear high-tone voice colors each song—sometimes with a pop sensibility, other times with a pop-punk flair.
Their three-dimensional guitar riffs and layered chorus work offer plenty of moments that really hit home.
They’re a great recommendation even for those who find overly intense emo a bit overwhelming.
No More FakeJessika
Jessika was formed around guitarist-vocalist Takumi Yazaki.
While they were originally active in their hometown of Numazu City, Shizuoka Prefecture, they have been mainly active in Tokyo since 2012.
They sold their 3rd single, “No More Fake,” and other releases at live houses.
Samurai Heart (Some Like It Hot!!)SPYAIR
This is a lively rock number by SPYAIR, also known for their tie-ins with TV anime.
Since there’s a section at the beginning designed for audience sing-alongs, the whole venue comes together when this song is performed live.
It’s a track that conveys a passionate energy that matches its catchy, pop-tinged melody.