Hi-STANDARD’s Signature Songs and Hidden Gems Guide [2026]

Big Ol’ ClockHi-STANDARD

Big Ol’ Clock

It is included on THE GIFT, their first album in 18 years, released in October 2017 and a chart-topping hit.

This song is a lyrical mid-tempo number that reins in the band’s signature sense of speed.

Its beautiful choral work and heartfelt ensemble gently embrace the sense of loss symbolized by a gaping hole in the heart and a stopped clock.

On a quiet night when you’re thinking of someone dear, it may stay close to your heart.

It has also been introduced at live shows as “a song we sang for the people of Fukushima,” and you can truly feel the earnest wish for someone reaching you straight on.

ChangesHi-STANDARD

Changes

This song is a reconstruction of the legendary ballad created by the iconic heavy metal band Black Sabbath.

While preserving the melancholic yet beautiful melody of the original, the addition of distorted guitars and an urgent beat imbues it with a palpable strength amid the sadness.

Released in June 1999, it is included on the landmark album MAKING THE ROAD, which sold over 650,000 copies.

The song portrays the deep sorrow of a man whose beloved woman has left him, alongside his helpless attempt to accept the change in their relationship—its raw emotional expression is truly heart-wrenching.

It’s a track that gently stays by your side on nights weighed down by an overwhelming sense of loss.

Green AcresHi-STANDARD

Green Acres

It sings about those contradictory feelings of loving the city yet yearning for the countryside.

This track is included on the classic album “MAKING THE ROAD,” released in June 1999 and selling over 600,000 copies, and serves as a kind of palate cleanser within the album.

Doesn’t its laid-back vibe naturally bring a smile to your face? It’s a number I’d love you to listen to when city life starts to feel a bit stifling.

Happy Xmas (War Is Over)Hi-STANDARD

Happy Xmas(War Is Over)

This is a track where Hi-STANDARD covers one of the world’s most beloved Christmas songs with a punk arrangement.

They reconstruct the original’s gentle prayer for peace with a driving band sound and beautiful choral work that draws you in.

The message wishing for a future without conflict resonates even more powerfully as it overlaps with their energetic performance.

Originally included on the 7-inch single “WAR IS OVER” in 1997, it was released on CD in December 2016 on the cover EP “Vintage & New, Gift Shits.” It’s the perfect song when you’re in the mood for a punk Christmas tune.

Hello My JuniorHi-STANDARD

Hello My Junior

This is a track from the classic album THE GIFT, released in October 2017.

It’s a thrilling punk rock number bursting with Hi-Standard’s signature style, packing an exhilarating, fast-paced sound into under two minutes, and lyrics like “Move by instinct, not logic” that really hit home.

The song also features the comical chorus that’s a staple at their live shows, making you want to sing along without thinking.

When you listen to it at times when overthinking keeps you from taking a step forward, it gives you so much energy that your worries start to feel ridiculous.

I highly recommend it as the perfect spark to boost your mood.

Mosh Under The Rainbow IIHi-STANDARD

Mosh Under the Rainbow

Isn’t this the live anthem that shines brilliantly in Japan’s punk scene—Hi-STANDARD’s very own? The track is included on the classic album “MAKING THE ROAD,” released in 1999, which sold over 600,000 copies.

After the spoken-word intro, the laid-back beat and guitar riff built on triplets give it a vibe distinct from their other songs.

The English lyrics even say, “Let’s mosh under the rainbow!”—you can practically picture everyone linking arms and jumping together to the easygoing rhythm.

Tinkerbell Hates GoateesHi-STANDARD

Tinkerbell Hates Goatees (Live at Yokohama Arena 20181222)

Among their songs, one with a uniquely different charm is this track included on the classic album “Making the Road,” released in June 1999 and selling over 600,000 copies.

Unlike their usual high-velocity punk sound, this piece takes a different approach, emerging as a gentle instrumental number reminiscent of bossa nova.

The light, airy tone of the flute is pleasing to the ear, and the beautiful melody makes it a joy to listen to.

Amid the album’s intense flow, this track brings a calming pause—perfect for a relaxing evening.

It’s a hidden gem that reveals the depth of Hi-STANDARD’s musicality.