Japanese girl bands: recommended popular bands

ZERO TIGERLIPSTICK

"ZERO TIGER" September 1, 2019 @ Kashiwa Thumb Up

Formed in 2012, LIPSTICK is a powerful, straight-ahead all-girl metal band.

Guitarist Sally and bassist Sakae are the core of the group’s sound, establishing a new, self-proclaimed genre called “MASSIVE ROCK.” Armed with exceptional musicianship since their high school days, they have been highly active mainly around Tokyo, earning strong acclaim with albums like “KILLER TUNES” and “X-SENSE.” In October 2019, they performed at “METAL MATSURI” held at the O2 Academy Islington in London, marking a successful overseas show.

While grounded in ’80s hard rock, their sound incorporates a modern approach and has drawn attention from many quarters, including winning the Grand Prix in a Yamaha Music production contest.

They’re a must-listen for music fans drawn to the fusion of heavy guitar riffs and sleek, lustrous melodies.

Come see me, I NEED YOU!GO-BANG’S

GO-BANG’S “Come See Me I NEED YOU!”

GO-BANG’S is vocalist Ms.

Moriwaka’s solo unit, but when they first formed in 1983 they were a three-piece band.

They were a band discovered by Kiyoshiro Imawano.

Their uniquely flat, adhesive-sounding voice and a cute look reminiscent of Betty Boop made a strong impression.

Drummer Saito was tall, also worked as a model, and was very cool.

ANisennenmondai

Nisennenmondai – A (Live At Clouds Hill)

Nisennenmondai is an experimental instrumental rock trio formed in Tokyo in 1999.

Their music traverses a wide range of genres, from post-rock to noise rock.

They debuted in 2004 on their own label with Sorede Souzousuru Neji, and have continued to attract attention with their distinctive musical style.

The 2008 album Neji/Tori received high praise overseas.

Characterized by precise rhythms and powerful distortion, their unique sound has captivated many music fans.

They’re highly recommended for anyone interested in experimental music or seeking a new musical experience.

DiamondsPRINCESS PRINCESS

[MV] Diamonds / Misaki Aono

Formed in 1983, the five-member girl band PRINCESS PRINCESS revolutionized the Japanese music scene.

Since their 1986 debut, they have produced numerous hits such as “Sekai de Ichiban Atsui Natsu” and “Diamonds,” and made history as the first all-female band to successfully perform at the Budokan.

Their powerful yet delicate vocals and catchy melodies are captivating, with much of the band’s music composed by Kaori Kishitani and lyrics written by Kyoko Tomita.

Each member has a distinct personality, and their live performances are breathtaking.

Continuing to have a major impact on Japanese pop culture, PRINCESS PRINCESS is highly recommended not only for girl-band fans but for music lovers of all ages!

Beast MasterTADZIO

TADZIO『Beast Master』

TADZIO features an original sound that layers a distinctively cute singing voice over thunderous noise reminiscent of garage rock and hardcore.

With a rarely seen lineup of guitar/vocals and drums, they went on hiatus in 2016, but their one-of-a-kind blend of raw intensity and catchiness is well worth checking out.

secret base ~What You Gave Me~ZONE

secret base ~What You Gave Me~ – ZONE

ZONE made their major debut in 2001, disbanded once in 2005, and then reunited in 2011.

Although their activities ended in 2013 due to members retiring and other reasons, many people might still think of them first when it comes to Heisei-era girl bands.

Their signature song—and a timeless classic still loved today—is “secret base ~Kimi ga Kureta Mono~.” Its touch of bittersweetness makes it a perfect track for the end of summer.

Take a moment to bask in the nostalgia and rediscover what makes ZONE so special.

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MAZEDESTROSE

DESTROSE – Maze (FULL MV 480p)

Despite undergoing multiple lineup changes, the girls’ metal band DESTROSE remained highly active and even pulled off a successful U.S.

tour.

Their sound, heavy yet catchy, is genuinely steeped in the heat and power of traditional hard rock.

Although they went on hiatus in 2015, they profoundly influenced later generations of girls’ metal bands.