Recommended Japanese bands for men in their 40s

Runnerbakufū suranpu

runner

Included on the 1988 album “HIGH LANDER.” A four-piece rock band that debuted in 1984.

The band was formed by merging two groups—“Bakufu-Jū” and “Super Slump”—that had participated in EastWest, a band contest hosted by the Yamaha Music Foundation.

I remember that until this song became a hit, they were often talked about by the public as a comic band.

Plan for the Indianization of JapanKinniku Shoujo Tai

Kinniku Shōjo-tai – Japan India-ization Project PV

Included on the 1989 album “Neko no Tebukuro.” Used as the CM song for Cheerio Corporation’s “Cheerio.” A four-piece rock band formed in 1982.

This track fully showcases their originality: pairing hard rock tunes built on hard-edged guitar sounds with delightfully silly lyrics.

Get Up, LucyTHEE MICHELLE GUN ELEPHANT

Get Up Lucy / THEE MICHELLE GUN ELEPHANT

Formed in 1991, the four-piece rock band THEE MICHELLE GUN ELEPHANT made their major-label debut in 1996 with a distinctive sound that fused garage, blues, punk, and more.

Known for their energetic live performances—often hitting more than 40 stops on a single tour—they also appeared at major festivals like Fuji Rock.

Yusuke Chiba’s distinctive vocals and the raw sound crafted by the entire band influenced countless fans and musicians.

Until their breakup in 2003, they were a leading presence in Japan’s rock scene.

They’re a perfect match for music fans seeking powerful rock ’n’ roll and fiery live performances.

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 right nowLINDBERG

LINDBERG / Kiss Me Now

The pop rock band LINDBERG, which made its major debut in 1989, took the nation by storm with former idol Maki Watase’s clear, soaring vocals and the band’s exhilarating sound.

With performances that are simple yet powerful and irresistibly catchy melodies, they continue to captivate many fans.

In 1997, they drew widespread attention with the big news of Maki Watase’s marriage to guitarist Tatsuya Hirakawa, and in 2015, Maki Watase received the 8th Best Mother Award in the music category.

From the albums LINDBERG I to LINDBERG XV, the band was highly prolific during their peak, releasing more than three works in a single year.

Highly recommended for those who want to etch the memorable songs of their youth into their hearts once again.

BE MY BABYCOMPLEX

BE MY BABY

Included on the 1989 album “COMPLEX.” A two-member rock band formed in 1988 by solo singer Koji Kikkawa and Tomoyasu Hotei after the breakup of BOØWY.

The repeated “Be My Baby” phrase in the intro was so striking that you could remember it right after seeing it on TV.

Beautiful night skyJUN SKY WALKER(S)

JUN SKY WALKERS - Wonderful Night Sky

Included on the 1988 album “Hitotsu Dakishimete.” A four-piece rock band formed in 1980.

The fusion of a simple, aggressively developing rock beat and noisy guitar sound with a contrasting lyrical melody line results in a melodious, easy-to-listen-to track.

I think it’s a fine song.