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 (11–20)

LucyHome

HOME – Lucy (Official Music Video)

LucyHome

Let us introduce HOME, an indie rock band based in Okinawa.

Formed in 2020, this trio delivers a sound reminiscent of the 1980s, influenced by a wide range of genres including indie rock and hip-hop.

They released their debut single “Lucy” in August 2023, which generated significant buzz on social media.

Their sound design—making full use of guitar and synthesizer—and their deft approach to the rhythm section have earned them praise.

As a symbol of a new music scene emerging from Okinawa, HOME is drawing attention—be sure to check them out!

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Excuse me, I’ll be leaving first.hanabie

Hanabie. – Pardon Me, I Have to Go Now – Music Video [HANABIE.]

Excuse me, I’ll be leaving first.hanabie

Hanabie., who champion their own original genre “Harajuku-core,” an evolution of metalcore and hardcore, are a rising all-girl band formed in 2015.

They released their first recordings in 2016, followed by the mini-album “Kaika Sengen” in 2018.

After dropping the 2019 digital single “L.C.G,” they unveiled their long-awaited first full-length album “Otome Kaikaku” in 2021.

Despite their petite, cute appearance, their overwhelming power and electrifying performances light up every show.

Their hybrid, innovative sound captivates not only rock fans but anyone who hears it.

In recent years, they’ve been active overseas as well, gaining attention not just in Japan but across the global rock scene as a loud rock band from Japan.

Heavy yet packed with irresistibly catchy hooks—and laced with a distinctive sense of humor—be sure to check out their “Harajuku-core!”

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

A preachy old man’s RoombaHedigan’s

Hedigan’s – “Rumba of a Preachy Old Man” (Official Music Video)

A preachy old man's RoombaHedigan's

A band made up of distinctive members.

Centered around YONCE, the frontman of Suchmos, Hedigan’s formed in 2023 and captivates with a sound rooted in vintage rock ’n’ roll and indie folk.

They made their major debut in February 2024 with the EP “2000JPY,” and released the album “Chance” in November of the same year.

Their first one-man tour across Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka sold out at every show.

They’re on a roll, having also performed at Fuji Rock.

Their music, brimming with experimentation and rebellious spirit, is recommended for anyone seeking the essence of rock.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Life; living; livelihoodHwyl

Life | Hwyl (Lyric video)

Life; living; livelihoodHwyl

Hwyl is a three-piece rock band formed in 2021.

Their music, which sings about real life and social themes, is a contemporary expression rooted in rock.

Their 2022 single “Kurashi” gained attention on social media, and in 2023 they released their first EP, “ASAGU.” They have also appeared at major festivals such as ROCK IN JAPAN 2023 and MURO FESTIVAL 2023, rapidly boosting their profile.

The members reportedly had periods in the past when they stepped away from making music.

That experience may be what leads them to create songs that closely resonate with people’s emotions.

This is music we especially want you—living in the here and now—to hear.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Ainori Reunionpachae

pachae / Ainori Reunion [MUSIC VIDEO]

Ainori Reunionpachae

Give a listen to the sound of pachae, a three-piece band from Osaka! Formed in 2020, pachae is known for a hybrid musical style that fuses a variety of genres on a foundation of pop.

They released their first EP, “GIM,” in September 2021.

In October 2024, they were tapped to provide the opening theme for a TV anime, steadily boosting their profile.

Dive into their songs, where Daisuke Otoyama’s catchy melodies blend with diverse musical elements!

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

REDKOTORI

KOTORI 「RED」 Official Music Video

REDKOTORI

A three-piece rock band formed in Saitama in 2014.

Armed with a delicate, emotional aesthetic, they steadily climbed the ranks, selling out a solo show at Ebisu LIQUIDROOM in 2019.

Riding that momentum, they also sold out a solo show at Akasaka BLITZ in 2020, proving their chops.

Their down-to-earth lyrics—seemingly drawn from real-life experiences—have resonated especially with younger, sensitive listeners, boosting their profile.

After pulling off a two-man show with Bacho, a band they openly cite as an influence, KOTORI’s momentum has only grown.

One to watch.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

[2026] Roundup of Young Major Bands & Indie Bands on the Verge of Breaking Out (21–30)

Curtain callreGretGirl

reGretGirl “Curtain Call” Official Music Video

Curtain callreGretGirl

reGretGirl sings about the emotions of heartbreak without holding anything back.

They drew attention with songs like “Whiteout,” where the straightforward guitar sound hits you right in the heart, and made their major-label debut in 2021.

In “Curtain Call,” the lyrics make you want to search for the happiness tucked into everyday scenes.

Over the exhilarating, fast-paced band sound, vocalist Hirabe’s voice resounds with overflowing emotion.

Many listeners will likely relate to the lyrics’ delicate portrayal of love and relationships.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem