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] Summary of Young Major Bands & Indie Bands on the Verge of Breaking Through (71–80)

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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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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So WhatSPiCYSOL

SPiCYSOL – So What [Music Video]

So WhatSPiCYSOL

Why not lose yourself in their mellow, catchy sound? SPiCYSOL, who made their major debut in 2021, are a band riding a huge wave of attention right now! The name SPiCYSOL was coined from SPICY and SOL.

Their songs have made waves, including ONLY ONE, the theme for the drama “Shufu Maison,” and So What.

Their genre-defying new sound and irresistibly singable lyrics are seriously addictive!

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The days we walk throughodol

odol – Days We Walk / side by side (Lyric Video)

The days we walk throughodol

Formed in Tokyo in 2014, they dropped their first EP, “Odoru.” The following year they completed their debut album “ODOL,” and in 2016 released their second album, “YEARS,” successfully holding their first headlining show.

Since then, this five-piece rock band has steadily built their career.

Their emotional world—where a melancholic piano intertwines with a naïve yet delicately bold rock sound—suggests potential that can’t be contained within a narrow indie scene.

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2006ma℃ister

ma℃ister – ｢2006｣　Music Video

2006ma℃ister

Ma℃ister is a youthful, pure-hearted rock band from Osaka.

Their music is packed with youthful energy and honest emotion, resonating deeply with listeners.

Since forming in 2006, they’ve been active mainly in live houses around the Kansai area, releasing standout tracks like “Youth Uproar High School” and “2006 (Single Version).” Their live performances are known for their intensity, captivating fans time and again.

You won’t want to take your eyes off them moving forward! They sing about the real feelings of young people, making them a band we’d especially love teens and people in their 20s to check out.

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