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 (31–40)
Extra KingdomKra
When it comes to Kra, this is the song that comes to mind for me.
The melody, the lyrics, the music video—everything about it feels so distinctly Kra.
I haven’t been able to attend a Kra solo concert yet, so I’m hoping to go next year.
I saw Kra’s live performance at an event in March this year, and it made me think they’re truly a great band.
I want to like them even more—that’s how I feel.
LieShido
Formed in 2003.
Made their major debut in 2008 with “Monochrome Kiss.” Their sound is characterized by soft rock close to pop, featuring memorable, beautiful melodies with a touch of kayōkyoku style.
Their appeal lies in a diverse range that doesn’t overlap with other visual kei bands.
They have many anime tie-ins, which rapidly boosted their recognition.
BABELBUCK-TICK
A legendary, long-established band that announced they would continue activities as a four-piece even after vocalist Atsushi Sakurai suddenly passed away in 2023.
Alongside X JAPAN, they are a foundational presence of the visual kei movement and have influenced countless bands.
While many associate them with gothic rock because of their look, they are a band that has continued to evolve over the years, incorporating a wide range of musical styles—from pop to dark—depending on the era.
Ms. AlligatorBugLug
This was the first BugLug song I ever listened to.
My first impression was that the tempo was really good and it was easy to listen to.
After seeing the news that Issay, BugLug’s vocalist, was injured, I felt even more strongly that I wanted to support this band.
I’m praying all the time that Issay will be able to sing again as soon as possible.
Memento mori of a solitary habitCANIVAL
Originally, we performed under a different band name, but we recently changed it and are now a visual kei band based in Shikoku.
With a mysterious atmosphere that feels like watching an anime or a movie, we are gradually expanding our reach and are a band destined to break through soon.
One of the cultures Japan proudly shares with the world! Recommended Visual Kei bands (41–50)
Swaying…Laputa
A visual kei band that, together with Kuroyume, helped lay the foundations of Nagoya’s visual kei scene.
During their indie era, they were known for a hard rock and metal sound built on the concept of “dark, hard, and melodic,” and they gained popularity for their theatrical performances.
Even today, they enjoy enduring popularity, including a one-night-only reunion show in 2024.
Nocturne Under the MoonMALICE MIZER
Formed in 1992, they are a band renowned for their all-encompassing live performances, which include music, costumes, and stage sets.
Their distinctive sound—deftly blending rock with classical music—was born from the fact that most members were exposed to classical music in their childhood.
Despite continuing their activities after vocalist Gackt’s departure and the sudden passing of drummer Kami, the legendary band regretfully went on hiatus in 2001.