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 most world-renowned cultures! Recommended Visual Kei bands (71–80)
GOKUMIshibirebashiru
They’re a visual-kei band with comedic elements, and the music video for this song is made like a karaoke video, further amplifying the bubble-era vibe.
The members’ profiles also contain outrageous tidbits, adding a comedic touch—overall, they’re a fun band.
Mass of hatredriberio
This band has the performance skills to effortlessly play even high-speed songs.
While their music makes extensive use of shouts and death vocals, the melodies are catchy, making them a band that even people who aren’t into visual kei might end up liking.
Day×Bye×dayreivu
It’s one of my favorite Rave songs—very easy to listen to and it makes you feel positive.
It’s the kind of song I’d like to send to a childhood friend.
I feel like it’s saying, “Even if we’re far apart, our hearts are one.” Rave has only been together for five years as a band, but all their songs are really good, and I hope they keep doing their best.
circuitJinkaku Rajio
Formed in January 2001.
A band centered around vocalist Yuki and bassist Naoki, joined by support members.
Their songs are characterized by lyrics with a distinctive worldview and melodies with a kayōkyoku (Japanese pop) flair layered over arrangements tinged with melancholy and wistfulness.
Although they went on hiatus in 2012, the band still enjoys enduring popularity.
Queen of the NightKiryu
A band that emphasizes a Japanese aesthetic, built on the concepts of “Japanese-style horror” and “piercing nostalgia,” featuring kimono-based costumes and songs that incorporate traditional Japanese instruments.
Formed in September 2007, they drew attention for their musical style, with five consecutive releases—from the single Tsuki no Hime to Kyōsei—topping the Oricon Indies Chart.
Although they have been on an indefinite hiatus since 2023 as a member recharge period, fans eagerly await their return.