A wonderful Japanese music band

[2026] Summary of Young Major Bands and Indie Bands on the Verge of Breaking Through

A Vocaloid producer who is also a music writerAraki Jakkan
I’ve worked in a variety of roles—regardless of pro or amateur settings—including live event PA, cameraman for video and photography, restaurant staff, and logistics center staff. I now spend my days as a part-time writer. I’ve contributed to music and manga websites with feature/review articles, and wrote the liner notes included as a bonus for 1st PLACE Inc.’s “IA SUPER BEST.” As for my music background, I started playing guitar in junior high and focused on band activities during my school years. For over 15 years since then, up to the present, I’ve continued releasing original tracks as a Vocaloid producer. My areas of expertise are Japanese rock, Vocaloid, and manga.
music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.

Lately, it feels like Japan’s rock band scene has been getting a lot more attention!

In recent years, we’ve seen all kinds of breakthroughs—bands hustling with a DIY approach and hitting it big, or skyrocketing to popularity after going viral on social media.

There are many ways for a spark to catch fire.

And if you’re a rock listener, chances are you don’t just want to follow the big-name bands at the forefront—you probably also want to check out the next generation of young bands and those on the verge of their big break.

In this article, we’ll be introducing a wide range of bands energizing the future of Japan’s rock scene, from major-label acts to indie artists.

We hope this helps you discover a new favorite band!

[2026] Roundup of Young Major Bands & Indie Bands on the Verge of Breaking Through (61–70)

Song of Deceptive LoveMOSHIMO

MOSHIMO “Song of Deceptive Love” MV

Song of Deceptive LoveMOSHIMO

You might just get hooked on their robust guitar rock and addictive lyrics too.

Since their major debut in 2016, MOSHIMO has been energizing the rock scene.

Vocalist Saki Iwabuchi’s cute voice and lyrics that turn the sadness and anxiety we all feel into something uplifting are unforgettable after just one listen.

“Inochi Mijikashi Koi Seyo Otome” has become a staple of their live shows, and during their 2017 live circuit, multiple venues enforced entry restrictions due to crowding.

Their 2021 release “Bakashi Ai no Uta” is a must-hear rock number at their concerts.

Their high-energy live performances will have your body moving before you know it!

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Suicide Girlamanojac

Amanojac “Suicide Girl” Music Video

Suicide Girlamanojac

A three-piece band, amanojac was formed by three classmates from the Nagoya School of Music & Dance.

Their standout appeal lies in a stable, polished sound backed by the exceptional performance skills you’d expect from conservatory-trained musicians.

They’re also notable for their rare twin-vocal setup, with bassist Fumiya Kiriyama and guitarist Shou Ootake alternating as lead vocalists.

Unfortunately, drummer Ranko left the band in May 2023.

Since then, they have continued as a three-piece with the help of support drummers.

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lingering scentVeronika ni sayonara.

Goodbye to Veronica — “Lingering Scent” (Official Music Video)_Goodbye Veronica from Okayama

lingering scentVeronika ni sayonara.

Formed in June 2023 after meeting through a Okayama University club, the indie band “Veronica ni Sayonara” is gaining attention for its colorful sound, grounded in J-POP and ROCK while incorporating elements of city pop.

They released their first digital single, “mokusei,” in July 2024, and their track “Nokoriga” was selected for power play on five FM radio stations.

The story-like lyricism woven by vocalist YunD Yun and the technically sophisticated compositions featuring irregular time signatures suggest a talent poised for a major breakthrough.

Many music fans are likely keeping a close eye on their trajectory.

They’re a promising rock band that shines with the brilliance of a new talent taking flight from Okayama.

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When I feel like seeing youFish and Lips

Fish and Lips – When I Feel Like Seeing You [Music Video]

When I feel like seeing youFish and Lips

A three-piece band from Hatogaya, Saitama.

They formed and got moving in 2022, when the members were high school juniors.

As an original band outside of any school club, you can sense the trust among the members and their eagerness to be active as a band.

With songs like “Seishun Rock o Utatte” and “Aitaku Nattara,” they make the most of their high school setting, delivering lyrics that convey the sweetness and conflicts of youth, paired with a driving sound that’s part of their appeal.

As a three-piece, each member has clear solo moments and highlights, which also reflect the trust they have in one another.

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In Love with the Mirrorraisan

Praise – In Love with the Mirror

In Love with the Mirrorraisan

Reisan is a rising band attracting attention on the music scene.

Formed in December 2021, they’ve captivated many listeners with a unique sound that fuses rock and pop around a hip-hop core.

Their hallmark is CLR’s expressive vocals—interweaving rap and singing—paired with a powerful, full-bodied sound from the skilled members.

Their February 2024 EP, “PEAK TIME,” further broadened their musical range.

The nationwide one-man tour “NICE BUDDY” held in 2025 saw every show sell out on the same day tickets went on sale.

They’ve also been active beyond music, including a collaboration with Kasugai Confectionery’s “Mochira,” earning high praise from the media.

They’re a recommended band for listeners seeking new possibilities in music.

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Intersection171

171 – Intersection

Intersection171

171 is a rock band that has been delivering soul-stirring performances mainly at live houses in the Kansai region, steadily expanding the scope of their activities from there.

They formed in January 2019 in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture.

The trio consists of Harunobu Tamura on guitar and vocals, Kana on bass and vocals, and Morimori on drums.

Their 2023 album, “My Second Car,” earned high praise for its energetic performance and sentimental melodies.

Their musicality has also been lauded by Fukase of SEKAI NO OWARI.

Their music, which blends intensity with melodious elements, hints at new possibilities for alternative rock.

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minamisenjudownt

downt「minamisenju」Music Video

minamisenjudownt

downt is a three-piece rock band known for powerful performances and emotionally charged melodies.

Formed in Tokyo in the spring of 2021, they craft a sound that blends elements of emo, post-rock, and alternative rock.

They made their debut in October 2021 with their self-titled album “downt,” attracting attention in the indie rock scene.

In June 2022, they released a six-track EP, “SAKANA e.p.” That same year, they performed in the FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL’s ROOKIE A GO-GO slot, earning high praise for their live show.

They’re the perfect band for listeners seeking raw, intense performances and a lyrically resonant, emotive soundscape.

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