One of the cultures Japan is proud to share with the world! Recommended visual kei bands

Music writer / guitarist / Certified web writing practitionerHoshino Takashi
Drawing on over 30 years of experience with guitars and bands since my high school days, I specialize in music-related articles and have handled many feature pieces to date. While my tastes lean toward genres like hard rock and heavy metal since I first picked up the guitar, I make a point of listening to a wide range of styles, both Japanese and Western, on a daily basis. I began working as a freelance writer in 2018. I hold a Web Writing Practical Certification, and in addition to writing, I’m also studying video editing. In my private life, I’m raising an elementary school child and stay active while supporting their extracurriculars, such as parkour and dance.

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 proudly shares with the world! Recommended Visual Kei Bands (91–100)

BULLETdangan NO LIMIT

BANG Bullet NO LIMIT 4th SINGLE “BULLET” Music Clip (FULL)

BULLETdangan NO LIMIT

This is a highly anticipated visual kei band that was unveiled and began activities in 2014 as the first artist on the newly launched label Riostar Records.

With many catchy songs that are easy to get into at live shows, the band is rapidly gaining fans.

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DizzyNIGHTMARE

NIGHTMARE / 「Dizzy」MUSIC VIDEO(Short Ver.)

DizzyNIGHTMARE

Formed on January 1, 2000.

They were active mainly in Sendai during their indie days and made their major debut in August 2003.

Known for many catchy melodies that pleasantly stick in your ear, they also had numerous tie-ins.

As of April 2016, the band has been on a temporary hiatus.

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In conclusion

How was it? This time, we introduced some recommended visual kei bands.

From well-known mainstream acts to more niche groups, I hope this gives you a broad overview.

Some people might be put off by their looks, but many bands’ appearances are closely linked to their artistic world, so I encourage you to give them a proper listen at least once.