Recommended Japanese bands for women in their 40s

Rock ‘n’ Roll in a Dumped MoodTOM★CAT

"Rock 'n' Roll in a Dumped Mood" TOM★CAT — with lyrics

Included on the 1985 album “TOM★CAT.” A nine-member music band formed in Tokyo in 1978.

The song won the Grand Prix at the 28th Yamaha Popular Song Contest (Tsumagoi Finals) and went on to win the Grand Prix at the 15th World Popular Song Festival as well.

Its lively digital sound is particularly striking.

With the Sun in TowVELVET PΛW

VELVET PAW – Bringing the Sun (PV)

VELVET PΛW was a Japanese all-female progressive rock band active from the early 1980s to the mid-1990s.

Their sound was influenced by AOR bands such as TOTO and JOURNEY, and they were a distinctive girls’ band known for their unique musicality that incorporated elements of progressive rock and hard rock from both Japan and abroad.

With high-level musicianship and progressive song structures, they stood apart from other all-female bands.

Although they went on hiatus in 1995, their technical prowess and musicality continue to be recognized today.

Spiral Danceindo neko

Moonlit Night in Ajanta – Indo Neko (Indo Cat) [1989] {Full Album}

Formed in Tokyo in the late 1980s, Indoneko was a new wave band with a distinctive worldview.

Their three-woman lineup crafted a unique sound that incorporated psychedelic elements, energizing the indie scene.

After appearing on the popular TV program “Ika-ten” in 1989, they made their major-label debut.

With fierce guitar and bass paired with laid-back vocals, their singular musicality won over dedicated music fans.

They released the albums “Mercurius” and “The Soil of Lemnos,” drawing attention for their mystical worldview and experimental approach, but sadly disbanded in 1991.

A must-listen for music lovers seeking alternative sounds.

At the End of SorrowElefanto Kashimashi

Elephant Kashimashi – At the End of Sorrow [Official Video]

A straight-ahead rock band that shakes the soul with powerful sound and a wistful, emotive voice.

Elephant Kashimashi formed in Tokyo in 1981, named by member Hiroji Miyamoto after an elephant’s call.

They made their major debut in 1988 and have led Japan’s rock scene with beautiful poetry and high musicality.

In 2007, they broke new ground with “Ore-tachi no Ashita,” climbing to even greater heights alongside Miyamoto’s overwhelming vocal prowess.

Their influence on the music world is immense—Kazutoshi Sakurai of Mr.Children has openly said he was “shocked” by them.

The grand sense of scale and the worldview woven by lyrics that resonate with the heart will warmly envelop you along with memories of your youth.

Kiss me with your eyesZa Vīnasu

Venus — a kiss to the eyes

A single released in 1981.

A five-member rock band formed in 1974.

The song is built around Beethoven’s Für Elise.

While retaining the essence of the original, its oldies-style arrangement and melody leave a strong impression.

Jenny is in a bad moodJūshii Furūtsu

Etsuko Yakushimaru “Jenny Is in a Bad Mood” (Full ver.)

A single released in 1980.

A four-member band formed in 1980, originating from BEEF, which had been Haruo Chikada’s backing band.

It’s a wonderfully fresh and cool track, featuring a strongly techno-tinged digital sound and vocals that sing with an atmospheric falsetto.

I don’t mind getting wet in the rain.Masako-san

Masako-san – I Don’t Mind Getting Wet in the Rain (1989)

Included on the 1989 album “Tsuchinoko Baron.” A six-member girls’ new wave band formed in 1986, and one of the groups that came out of Ikaten.

Their irresistibly enigmatic melodies and distinctive vocals create a flavor only they can deliver.