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 proudest cultural exports! Recommended visual kei bands (81–90)
Sky of OblivionSADS
A band formed in 1999 by Kiyoharu, the vocalist of Kuroyume, following Kuroyume’s hiatus.
While inheriting Kuroyume’s style, their sound incorporates heavier elements.
Their drama tie-in single “Boukyaku no Sora” became a long-running hit.
After a period of inactivity, they are now mainly active through live performances.
boykuroyume
A visual kei band formed in 1991 that gained popularity with a sound showcasing a stark, mechanized intensity incorporating programmed elements.
In their later years, they based their music on styles heavily influenced by hardcore and underground rock, and found success with lyrics by Kiyoharu that carried strong messages.
They remain a legendary band that continues to influence many artists today.
bathtubkuroyuri to kage
The band’s name is striking, and they’re a visual kei group with occult elements—for example, they’ve even used a photo of someone attempting to hang themselves as an artist photo.
Their song arrangements are excellent, but it’s the vocalist’s high-tone voice that makes an even stronger impact, making them a truly addictive band.
Stargaze:alice nine
Alice Nine is now continuing their activities under the name “A9.” When I first heard this song, my initial impression was that it was a very beautiful piece.
The music video is incredibly beautiful and matches the song so well that it made me think it’s truly wonderful.
Alice Nine is also a band I’ve been listening to since I first got into visual kei, and even after leaving their former agency, they’ve continued to persevere.
I want to keep supporting them forever and ever.
jetFAIRY FORE
This was the song through which I first discovered the band—over ten years ago now.
I first heard it as an anime tie-in when I was in middle school, and it has supported me ever since.
It’s very easy to listen to, with a great sense of drive.
When I heard the news of their breakup, I felt very lonely, but they’re still, and will always be, a band I treasure and love.
With YouLa’cryma Christi
Formed in 1991.
Counted among the “Visual Kei Big Four,” the band is also known for hit songs like “With-you” and “Mirai Kouro.” Their trademarks are a beautiful, soaring high-register voice and strong musicianship centered on twin guitars.
Their sophisticated, prog rock–tinged compositions are truly one of a kind even among the many Visual Kei bands.
A highly recommended band you should start listening to now.
One of the cultures Japan proudly shares with the world! Recommended Visual Kei Bands (91–100)
A girl with a missing part on a moonlit nightNoulla
Originally a limited-time project band called ‘Black Apple,’ they began full-fledged activities with a solo live show at Ikebukuro BlackHole in December 2016.
Their distinctive features include a mysterious worldview, intense songs, and complex rhythms.
In 2017, they released three CDs, marking a breakthrough year.