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!
- A classic masterpiece of visual kei. A staple and popular song representing V-kei rock.
- [Neo-Visual Kei] A roundup of popular songs by V-kei bands from the 2000s
- [2026] A roundup of popular Japanese hard rock bands, including those famous overseas
- A collection of hit songs and classics that opened the door to 1990s Visual Kei
- Reunion wanted: the legendary band that disbanded to much regret
- Classic and hit songs by nostalgic Japanese bands from the 1990s
- Today's Recommended J-POP: A Collection of Japanese Hit Songs You’ll Want to Listen to Today
- High School Students’ Favorite Band Songs Ranking [2026]
- Debut song of a 90s visual kei band
- Debut song of an 80s visual-kei band
- Masterpieces and Popular Songs of X JAPAN
- X Japan Popular Song Rankings [2026]
- Classic Japanese metal songs. Recommended popular tracks.
One of Japan’s world-renowned cultures! Recommended Visual Kei bands (61–70)
GreeMGreeΣ
Their songs are catchy enough to fit right into Japan’s summer festivals, yet when you look at their videos and photos, they also incorporate visual kei elements—an unbeatable combination.
Formed in February 2017 and just beginning activities in March, this band is sure to break out from here.
ArlequinNoGoD
A visual-kei metal band known for the impact of their extravagant makeup and costumes, and even more so for their high-quality songs.
Their music, built on a soaring high-tone voice and exceptional musicianship, is truly impressive.
On the other hand, the humorous MCs by the vocalist, Danchō, are also a major draw, making them a band you should definitely go see live.
Swimming in the rainPlastic Tree
A visual kei band formed in 1993 that made its major-label debut in 1997.
They are characterized by a sound infused with UK rock influences and lyrics that could be described as literary, imbued with a unique sense of weightlessness and languor.
Celebrating their 30th anniversary in 2024, the band is garnering even greater anticipation for their future activities.
Poison ChocolatePurple Stone
Although they are a visual-kei band, they excel in entertainment, with the vocalist sometimes dancing together with dancers.
Their songs also feature many pop-rock elements, making them a band that even those who aren’t into visual-kei might come to like.
Dearest WishSCREW
Formed in 2006, the four-piece rock band SCREW delivers an intense yet beautiful sound rooted in hard rock and metalcore.
They made their major debut in 2012, with releases like the album “Biran” and the single “Deep Six” ranking high on the Oricon charts.
They also honor their predecessors, covering songs by hide, among others.
Songs woven from Byou’s powerful vocals and the heavy performances by Kazuki and the others captivate many fans alongside heartfelt lyrics.
Although they concluded their activities in 2016 to great regret, their music continues to be loved.
Highly recommended for those who enjoy heavy music and for anyone who wants to connect with lyrics that move the heart.
JOKERSHIVA
They’re a band with many unforgettable songs, featuring Western antique-style arrangements paired with catchy, kayōkyoku-like melodies.
The music itself is excellent, of course, but another memorable aspect is the members’ distinctive makeup.
traumaSIRENE〜Seirēn〜
It’s a very stylish visual kei band where the vocalist’s outfit and hairstyle change rapidly with each cut, like seven transformations.
The song structure suddenly opens up in the chorus, which feels uplifting and gives hope—it’s incredibly cool.