[2026] Classic Indie Rock Songs from Japan: A Roundup of the Latest Must-Listen Tracks

There are surely many music fans who can’t help but perk up at the words “indie rock.” As a genre label it’s vague, but it generally refers to the sound of rock bands with their own aesthetics, keeping some distance from the mainstream music scene.

That said, it often sparks debate, since many bands are still described as “indie rock” even after making a major-label debut and not strictly being indie.

In this article, we’ve gathered songs—primarily by up-and-coming bands—that you should check out to understand the latest state of Japanese indie rock, including bands that have gone major.

Even if you usually listen mainly to Western music, be sure to give these a listen!