Recommended Japanese bands for men in their 40s

Youth FrenzySunny Day Service

Keiichi Sokabe BAND – Youth Runaway Song [Live 2007]

Sunny Day Service has been crafting a singular musical world in the Japanese music scene since the 1990s.

Drawing on a wide range of genres—including neo-acoustic, folk rock, and garage rock—their sound has captivated countless listeners.

They made their major debut in July 1994 with the mini-album “INTERSTELLAR OVERDRIVE EP” on MIDI Records.

As a central presence in the movement known as Shibuya-kei, they drew attention with their distinctive turns of phrase and poetic lyrics.

Although they disbanded once in 2000, they reunited in 2008 and have been active ever since.

Led by Keiichi Sokabe, they continue to influence many artists as pioneers of the Shibuya-kei scene.

Their lyrical songs—evoking scenes of cherished memories—offer an exquisite musical experience that blends nostalgia with freshness.

Let’s go avant-gardeTHE YELLOW MONKEY

THE YELLOW MONKEY – Let’s Go Avant-Garde

A band that represents Japan’s rock scene, formed in 1988.

Making their major-label debut in 1992, THE YELLOW MONKEY built a unique artistic world while drawing on the essence of British glam rock and hard rock.

They produced numerous mega-hits and sold over 9 million records by the time they went on hiatus in 2001.

Since their 2016 reunion, their prowess has remained undiminished, with a dazzling list of honors including MTV Japan’s Inspiration Award Japan and the Japan Record Award.

Kazuya Yoshii’s commanding vocals and dramatic lyricism, combined with the powerful sound woven by the Kikuchi brothers—real-life siblings on rhythm section and guitar—continue to move music fans across generations.

Their exquisite body of work, where the essence of rock fuses with distinctly Japanese expression, is perfect for anyone looking to rediscover the wonder of music.

O-EdoKabukirokkusu

KABUKI ROCKS – Oedo – O-EDO

Kabuki Rocks brought a fresh breeze to Japan’s music scene with a sound that fuses traditional kabuki and modern rock.

In 1989, they made their major-label debut after appearing on the TBS music program “Miyake Yūji’s Ikasu Band Tengoku.” Centered around Ichiban Ujigami—known for his white makeup and flamboyant costumes—the band has created original songs that incorporate Edo-period language and traditional Japanese scales.

As pioneers of the visual-kei movement, they have maintained a devoted fan base, and their musical style has had a significant influence on subsequent artists.

Why not revisit that one-of-a-kind sound—born from the meeting of Japan’s traditional culture and rock—along with your fond memories?

Supernova9mm Parabellum Bullet

9mm Parabellum Bullet – Supernova

Formed in Yokohama, Kanagawa in 2004, 9mm Parabellum Bullet is a skilled rock band with a distinctive presence, spanning a wide musical range from post-hardcore to heavy metal.

They made their major debut in 2007, and their album “Termination” reached No.

10 on the Oricon charts.

Since then, they have continued to captivate many listeners with powerful performances and a unique worldview.

In September 2009, they proved their prowess by successfully headlining a solo show at Nippon Budokan.

The heavy sound woven by Takuro Sugawara’s vocals and Yoshimitsu Taki’s guitar becomes even more compelling when experienced live.

Energetically active—having also performed at Yokohama Arena—the band’s music is perfect for fans seeking both powerful performances and melodic elements.

Everlasting LuvBREAKERZ

BREAKERZ「Everlasting Luv」Music Video（full ver.）

BREAKERZ made a striking debut in 2007 as a three-member visual kei rock band.

The members are DAIGO, AKIHIDE, and SHINPEI.

With a lineup featuring vocals and twin guitars, they’re known for their powerful sound and energetic live performances.

They have provided numerous tie-in songs for popular anime, winning over anime fans as well.

In 2020, their album “BREAKERZ” reached No.

3 on the Oricon Weekly Chart, underscoring their musical excellence and consistency.

Since the band’s formation, each member has also been active as a solo artist, channeling that experience back into the band—another key part of their appeal.

They’re highly recommended for music fans who grew up on visual kei and anime songs.

UkifuneGO!GO!7188

GO!GO!7188 – Ukifune / Ukifune – Ukifune (Official PV)

This is a three-piece rock band formed by classmates Yuu and Akko from Kagoshima.

They specialize in surf rock and garage rock infused with traditional Japanese flavors, and made their major debut in 2000.

Skillfully weaving in elements of nostalgic Shōwa-era pop while adding a punk rock edge, they captivated many fans with their distinctive sound.

Their fiery live performances—driven by Yuu’s striking vocals and guitar, Akko’s bass, and Turkey’s drums—left audiences in awe.

Even after disbanding in February 2012, the members each continued their musical pursuits.

If you discovered rock in your youth, this band will surely resonate with you.

hologramNICO Touches the Walls

NICO Touches the Walls - Hologram

A four-piece rock band formed in 2004, named after the idea of imagining a new world beyond the wall.

While rooted in power pop and alternative rock, they drew attention for their distinctive sound that incorporated experimental elements.

Since their major debut in 2007, they have created a string of tie-in songs for popular anime, steadily expanding their fan base.

Centered on Tatsuya Mitsumura’s soaring vocals and outstanding songwriting, they consistently delivered energetic, uplifting messages.

From 2015, they also performed under an acoustic band moniker, showcasing their musical versatility.

Until their much-regretted breakup in 2019, they continued to capture the hearts of young listeners.

For those who encountered their music in their youth, they remain a wonderful band that lingers fondly in the heart.