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 (51–60)

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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Walking with youNovelbright

Novelbright – Walking with you [Official Music Video]

Walking with youNovelbright

Let us introduce Novelbright, the rock band making waves with their grand sound and exhilarating performances! Since their major debut in 2020, they’ve built popularity on social media while continuing to perform street shows.

Vocalist Yudai Takenaka’s high-tone voice pairs perfectly with the band’s technical musicianship, further highlighting their honest, forward-looking songs.

Why not give a listen to their uplifting words and vocals in tracks like “Walking with you” and “Tsukimisou”?

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Hey, darling.tsukimi

Tsukimi / Hey, Darling Music Video

Hey, darling.tsukimi

Have you heard of Tsukimi, the hype-fueled gyaru rock band from Iwaki City, Fukushima? This duo—Ninichan and Shuka—has been gaining attention for their unique style that fuses powerful rock sounds with gyaru culture.

Tsukimi’s music is characterized by energetic, hard-hitting performances and emotionally rich lyrics.

Their standout tracks so far include “Midnight Seventh” and “Uso Rock,” both available on YouTube and streaming services.

They’re known for their live performances, and their high-energy stage presence is a must-see! Keep an eye on them—they’re a band you won’t want to miss.

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feelSouruzu

Souls / feel (Music Video)

feelSouruzu

You might just get hooked on their funky beats.

Souls is a rock band that shines with catchy, dramatic musicality.

Gaining buzz with songs like “feel” and “Step By Step,” they’re expanding their presence mainly across the Kansai region.

They’re actively performing solo shows and street gigs, and they continue to draw attention with appearances at the Inazuma Rock Festival and live clips trending on TikTok.

Their lyrics, which help you notice the important things in everyday life, give you the courage to move forward into tomorrow.

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

Because it was there.MONO NO AWARE

MONO NO AWARE “Because It Was There” (Official Music Video)

Because it was there.MONO NO AWARE

The band’s name is pronounced “Mononoaware.” They formed in 2013 and have been a four-piece since 2015.

In 2016 they performed at FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL, and the following year they released their major-label debut, “Jinsei, Yama Ori Tani Ori” (“Life, With Peaks and Valleys”).

Their distinctive Japanese lyrics evoke a certain nostalgia, and their airy urban-funk and neo-acoustic approach also carries a hint of early-2000s J-ROCK flavor.

They’re a new-generation rock band with a lightly pop, slightly quirky charm that feels like it would fit both outdoors and in your room.

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Hellojisoku 36 km

36 km/h / Hello [Music Video]

Hellojisoku 36 km

Jisoku 36km is a rock band from Ekoda, Tokyo, drawing attention with their distinctive sound and raw energy.

Their first full-length album, Standing in the Radiance, released in July 2020, is composed of emotionally rich tracks and features a wide variety of songs.

While their music incorporates elements of alternative and folk, it also carries the heat and exhilaration of punk, giving it a cross-genre appeal.

On stage, they captivate audiences with high-energy performances, fully unleashing the primal impulse, driving momentum, and one-of-a-kind sound that define their songs.

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Doubt first.itashimoku

Banshimoku - “Be Suspicious First” (Official Music Video, released January 1, 2022) _ BANSHIMOKU

Doubt first.itashimoku

Formed in 2019 by three high school students, Hachurui-kei rock band Itashime is a reptile-themed trio bursting with personality that lives up to their striking tagline.

Lead vocalist Chiaki Shion’s powerful, rock-edged voice is seriously cool.

Riding a wave of momentum, they pulled off their first nationwide tour in 2022, hitting 24 locations.

In 2023, they released their third album, “Genetic-Level NO!!!,” and embarked on a second national tour.

They’re a band to watch, so be sure to catch them live!

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