One of the cultures Japan is proud to share with the world! Recommended visual kei bands
Said to have originated from X JAPAN’s BLUE BLOOD album tagline, “PSYCHEDELIC VIOLENCE CRIME OF VISUAL SHOCK,” visual kei has now become a hallmark of Japanese culture.
As it’s defined not as a specific sound, but as a way of building a worldview and aesthetic through visual expression—makeup, fashion, and more—the musical styles vary widely from band to band.
This time, we’ll introduce visual kei bands spanning a wide range of eras.
Whether you’re new to the genre or a longtime fan, we’ve got recommendations you’ll want to check out!
One of the cultures Japan is proud to share with the world! Recommended Visual Kei bands (1–10)
Black CherryAcid Black Cherry
The solo project of yasu, former vocalist of Janne Da Arc.
Many of the lyrics center on themes of human desire and eros, resulting in a sound that’s darker and more chaotic than Janne Da Arc.
The genre ranges widely, from intense rock to pieces with a jazz flavor.
Redthe GazettE
A visual kei band formed in 2002 after the activities of their predecessor band, Kar+te=zyAnose.
They made their major debut in 2005 and changed the spelling of their band name to the GazettE in 2006.
With the high musical ability that all members can compose, they have gained popularity for their diverse range of songs born from that strength.
They can be considered one of the leading visual kei bands to emerge since the 2000s.
ROCKET DIVEhide with Spread Beaver
A project launched by former X Japan member hide on January 1, 1998, the day after the band disbanded.
During the very short period of activity until his death on May 2, hide released a string of hits including “ROCKET DIVE,” “Pink Spider,” and “ever free.” The project has continued even after his passing, with new songs released using the recordings he left behind.
WELCOME TO GHOST HOTELpentagon
Although their activity period was short, from 2015 to 2020, this visual kei band gained popularity for its dark fantasy-themed sound.
Not only do the members have great looks and costumes, but the vocalist’s singing ability far surpasses that of other bands, making their live performances a chance to enjoy music of exceptionally high quality.
crimsonX JAPAN
A legendary, undisputed band that needs no introduction—it’s no exaggeration to say they shaped the current visual scene.
They produced numerous hits and influenced countless musicians who debuted afterward.
Although they suddenly announced their breakup in 1997, they reunited in 2007 and have continued their worldwide activities ever since.
DOLLSJanne Da Arc
A five-member visual kei rock band formed in 1996.
They made their major-label debut with Avex in 1999 and were hailed as the “ultimate weapon of visual kei.” Known for their exceptional musicianship and melodious songs, they released numerous classic albums, including JOKER and ARCADIA, distinguished by ethereal strings and an emotive band sound.
From 2007, each member began solo activities.
In 2019, the band officially announced its disbandment.
While fully embodying the allure of visual kei, Janne Da Arc established a unique worldview and can be considered one of the cultural treasures Japan proudly presents to the world.
Phoenix 2022FANATIC◇CRISIS
A five-member visual kei rock band active from the late 1990s to the early 2000s.
Centered around Tsutomu Ishizuki, the lineup consisted of members from Aichi and Gifu Prefectures.
Since their major debut in 1997, they captivated many fans with their distinctive worldview and overwhelming musicianship.
Notable features include compositions that draw on Ishizuki’s violin experience since age three and meticulous songwriting achieved through clearly defined roles within the band.
Even after disbanding, each member has continued to excel in various fields such as music, design, and voice acting, and they remain influential as pioneers of visual kei.
Highly recommended for those seeking innovative musicality and striking visual expression.