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 the cultures Japan is proud to share with the world! Recommended Visual Kei bands (11–20)
Shiny taleMix Speaker’s,Inc.
A five-member visual kei band that describes themselves as a “creative/expressive collective.” Formed in 2006, they developed a fantastical worldview centered on music, opening up new possibilities for visual kei.
Their distinctive approach—including a twin-vocal setup—drew significant attention.
In 2012, they provided the opening theme for a TV Tokyo anime, earning support from a wide audience.
They held their final concert at EX THEATER ROPPONGI in February 2018 and disbanded to much regret.
Highly recommended for those who want to immerse themselves in a world of fantasy or are seeking a new form of visual kei.
Rhapsody of the Autumn WindRaphael
Raphael is a visual kei metal band known for its unique sensibility infused with classical elements.
Formed in 1997, they began their activities under the concept of presenting their true, unvarnished selves.
They garnered attention for a musical style that spans a wide range of genres, from rock and progressive rock to melodic speed metal.
Sadly, in October 2000, the band’s central figure, Kazuki, passed away at the young age of 19, leading to a hiatus.
Even so, their distinctive worldview and high musicality continue to captivate many fans.
Her “Modern…”GLAY
A four-member rock band from Hakodate, Hokkaido.
Since their major debut in 1994, they have continued to lead the Japanese music scene.
Covering a wide range of genres from pop rock to hard rock, they have produced million-selling hits such as “HOWEVER.” Their 1997 best-of album “REVIEW – BEST OF GLAY” topped the Oricon year-end chart.
They are also known for their live performances, drawing 200,000 people to “GLAY EXPO ’99 SURVIVAL” in 1999.
In 2010, they launched their own label, loversoul music & associates, to pursue greater creative freedom.
A highly accomplished band that transcends the visual-kei category, they are acclaimed not only in Japan but also overseas.
Vivid ColorsL’Arc〜en〜Ciel
A four-piece rock band formed in Osaka in 1991.
True to their name, which means “rainbow” in French, they have brought a rich spectrum of sounds to Japan’s music scene.
Since their major-label debut in 1994, their songs—frequently chosen as themes for TV dramas and films—have become successive hits.
In 2012, they became the first Japanese musicians to headline a solo concert at Madison Square Garden, earning high acclaim both in Japan and abroad.
With all members composing and bringing diverse musical styles, L’Arc〜en〜Ciel is recommended not only for rock fans but for anyone who enjoys a wide range of music genres.
ButterflyDoremi-dan
Doremi-dan is a visual kei band formed in 2002.
Since their major debut in 2009, they have captivated many fans with experimental rhythms and a distinctive worldview.
Their musical style is characterized by diversity that transcends the boundaries of J-rock and visual kei.
Although they disbanded once in March 2012, they reunited three years later.
Through milestone events such as their 13th and 20th anniversary concerts, they have deepened their bond with fans.
With their unique musicality and visual expression, Doremi-dan has brought a fresh breeze to the Japanese music scene, making them a recommended band for anyone who wants to fully experience the appeal of visual kei.
The Tangerine SongSEX MACHINEGUNS
SEX MACHINEGUNS, a metal band Japan is proud of, began their activities in the mid-1990s.
They made their major-label debut in April 1998 and have captivated many fans with lyrics that blend a unique worldview and social satire.
Their songs are driven by high-speed, intricate guitar riffs and solos, along with energetic performances, and they value passionate interaction with the audience at live shows.
While rooted in metal, they also incorporate pop elements and distinctly Japanese cultural flavors, earning support from a wide range of listeners.
They’re a recommended band not only for those who love intense music but also for anyone who wants to enjoy a singular, imaginative world.
One of the cultures Japan proudly shares with the world! Recommended Visual Kei Bands (21–30)
sutherBlesAzlina
They’re a band that started around 2014, with guitar at the forefront but making excellent use of synthesizers, resulting in very high-quality tracks.
The guitar arrangements are cool throughout the songs, and even when playing striking phrases, they never get in the way of the vocals.
There are many such appealing qualities, making them a very interesting band for guitarists to listen to.