[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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- [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!! Introducing Japanese Emotional Rock Bands (41–50)
Azure Daysplenty
plenty is a three-piece band from Ibaraki.
They made their CD debut in 2009 with their first mini-album and held their first nationwide tour the following year.
Their songs showcase Fumiya Enuma’s knack for imbuing simple Japanese lyrics with deep meaning.
On their February 2012 release, “Kagaiita Sora” (The Tilted Sky), their hallmark blend of emotionally rich performances and introspective lyrics comes together beautifully.
You’ll likely relate to their sensitivity in finding beauty in the casual moments of everyday life.
The band sadly disbanded in 2017.
The Melody of the Morpho ButterflyROA
Formed in 2015.
A new-wave rock band led by AKABA, the drummer of SNAIL RAMP.
Their concept is “a fusion of Japanese and Western styles.” Blending Western rock, emo, and punk influences with traditional Japanese instruments (Tsugaru shamisen), they deliver a fresh sound characterized by catchy melodies and distinctive lyrics.
GLEANINGMISTY
MISTY is a melodic hardcore/emo band formed in 2006 in Anjo City, Aichi Prefecture.
“GLEANING” is a collection of intense melodic songs with entirely English lyrics, and the music video was directed by Takayuki Kojima, who has worked on projects for MAN WITH A MISSION, 04 Limited Sazabys, and STRAIGHTENER.
OVERKILLGanariya, Sairentonikusu
Formed in Osaka in 2011.
Their sound—dubbed “good-core, roaring pop”—brims with instinct, explosiveness, tension, and carefully chosen words, wrapping listeners and viewers alike in a warm, powerful embrace that seems to say, “Right? You feel it too!” Their live intensity is second to none.
There’s no way you’ll watch their show without feeling your chest burn; it’s that stirring.
cheeksayonara poezi
Sayonara Poetry is a rock band from Kobe, Hyogo.
Formed in 2012, they have broadened their activity while establishing a unique style that weaves in emotional elements and post-rock-like developments.
With literary, deeply meaningful lyrics—as heard in songs like “Zensen ni Tsugu” and “Nisoku Sanmon”—and the expressive power to depict everyday anxieties and inner conflicts, they’ve captured the hearts of many listeners.
Their high-energy live performances are another major draw.
If you’re into alternative rock, their music is a must-listen!
At the end of love, cherry blossoms flutter downSECONDWALL
Formed in 2009, their style—blending rock with influences from emo and J-pop through a unique sensibility—has captivated many.
In 2016, they brought on nishi-ken, known for producing GReeeeN and Ketsumeishi, as a sound producer and released an album.
Despite being an indie act, they were selected to provide a TV drama’s theme song.
town lightGusanos
Formed in Kyoto in 2004.
They’ve become such a legendary band that there’s hardly anyone in the Kyoto hardcore scene who doesn’t know them.
In 2015, a full ten years after forming, they released their first full-length album, “Life Chord.” Hailed from all sides as a masterpiece, their live shows are also overwhelming.
Their appeal lies in a musicality that places emphasis on lyrically expressing the ordinary scenes of everyday life.