Recommended Japanese bands for high school students

ICHIDAIJIPorukadotto Sutingurei

Polkadot Stingray “ICHIDAIJI” Music Video

Polkadot Stingray is a four-piece band that has been active since 2015.

Shizuku, the vocalist and guitarist, is also a game creator and a versatile artist who handles artwork and design, and she seems poised to become even more popular.

STAY TUNESuchmos

Suchmos – STAY TUNE [Official Music Video]

Suchmos is a six-piece rock band formed in 2013.

Although they’re a Japanese act, their appeal lies in a sound reminiscent of stylish overseas music.

They’re a great recommendation for anyone who prefers chic, polished bands over more intense ones.

turmoilUVERworld

UVERworld “Gekidō”

Are you familiar with UVERworld, a six-member band from Shiga Prefecture? They debuted in 2005 and have earned strong support from many young listeners thanks to their unique sound and TAKUYA∞’s lyrics.

Many of their songs have been used as theme songs for anime and TV dramas, and in 2008 they topped the weekly singles chart with “Hakanaku mo Towa no Kanashi.” In 2017, they demonstrated their overwhelming popularity by successfully holding the “Men’s Festival” at Saitama Super Arena, drawing about 23,000 people.

Their catchy melodies and heartfelt lyrics stand out, making them a great recommendation for J-pop fans as well as high school students who like idols and anime songs.

If you’re looking to discover new music, definitely give them a listen!

deep redMy Hair is Bad

My Hair is Bad – Deep Crimson (Official Music Video)

My Hair is Bad is a three-piece rock band that has been active since 2008.

Every time they play at a festival or live show, the term “My Hair” trends, making them a band whose popularity is rapidly rising among young people right now.

1998Atomic Skipper

Atomic Skipper – 1998(Music Video)

Atomic Skipper is a rock band formed in 2014 in Hamamatsu, Shizuoka Prefecture.

Flying the banner of being a “head‑on, no‑nonsense rock band,” they deliver energetic live performances.

After releasing their first nationwide-distributed mini-album, “Shishun o Koete,” in 2020, they put out their major-label debut album, “Orbital,” from Universal Sigma in 2023.

Their hallmark is crafting emotional melodies rooted in rock and J-pop.

Give flowersBlume popo

Blume popo 'Give Flowers' Music Video

Introducing the appeal of Blume popo, a five-piece alternative rock band from Shiga Prefecture.

All members have been friends since childhood, and the band officially kicked off in 2015.

Their hallmark is a sound that weaves together Miko Nomura’s fragile, translucent vocals with the band’s meticulously crafted ensemble, fusing elements of post-rock, shoegaze, and electronica.

In 2017, they won “RO JACK” at ROCK IN JAPAN FESTIVAL and went on to perform at the festival.

Give them a listen and you might find your senses awakened in a whole new way.

cheeksayonara poezi

Goodbye Poesy – Cheeks (LIVE at Spotify O-EAST)

Sayonara Poetry is a rock band from Kobe, Hyogo.

Formed in 2012, they have broadened their activity while establishing a unique style that weaves in emotional elements and post-rock-like developments.

With literary, deeply meaningful lyrics—as heard in songs like “Zensen ni Tsugu” and “Nisoku Sanmon”—and the expressive power to depict everyday anxieties and inner conflicts, they’ve captured the hearts of many listeners.

Their high-energy live performances are another major draw.

If you’re into alternative rock, their music is a must-listen!