[2026] Masterpieces of instrumental music. Recommended instrumental tracks.
The genre of music without vocals—so-called “instrumentals,” also known in Japan by the abbreviation “inst”—covers a wide range of pieces, from film soundtracks and classical music to 15-second commercial jingles.
In this article, we’ve curated a broad selection of recommended instrumental masterpieces, from world-famous soundtrack tunes to fiery guitar instrumentals and soothing lounge music.
We hope it sparks a new realization—“Songs without lyrics might actually be great!”
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[2026] Masterpieces of instrumental music: Recommended instrumental tracks (71–80)
Kimi ga HoshiiSIBERIAN NEWSPAPER
SIBERIAN NEWSPAPER is a seven-member instrumental band formed in Osaka Prefecture in 2005.
Their sound is characterized by violin at the core.
It almost feels like listening to music from abroad.
They’ve performed not only in Japan but also at overseas events such as the UK music festival “In The City,” earning high acclaim internationally.
The song in the video is included on their 2012 album “0.”
Bitter Sweet SambaHerb Alpert
Herb Alpert’s “Bitter Sweet Samba.” Even if you don’t know the title, you’ve probably heard it at least once.
It’s often played on TV.
The Latin rhythm and distinctive melody captivate listeners.
The repeated motif is pleasant, making it a striking piece.
It’s a wonderful number I can recommend to everyone.
3 views of a secretJaco Pastorius
Many tracks featuring Jaco Pastorius have exceptionally beautiful melodies.
This piece is one of them.
His longtime acquaintance, harmonica player Toots Thielemans, delivers a smooth, lyrical performance as well.
The genre-defying sound is quintessentially Jaco.
The Return of the Sun of Monster MagnetFRANK ZAPPA
Frank Zappa pursued a unique, avant-garde musical style and was highly praised for his guitar technique.
This track appears on Freak Out!, released in 1966 as the debut album by his band, the Mothers of Invention.
Although the song is said not to have been completed exactly as he intended, that may be why it exudes a distinctive atmosphere, possessing a rough-hewn yet peculiar charm.
Pick up the piecesAverage White Band
A classic that reached No.
1 in the U.S.
in 1975.
It still gets plenty of airplay in the media today, so even if you’re not a fan of Western music, soul, or funk, you’ve probably heard it.
As the name suggests, they’re a white band, but their sound is unmistakably Black, delivering an overwhelmingly deep groove you wouldn’t expect from a white group.
In their early days, the band featured vocals quite prominently.
Their other hit, “Cut the Cake,” also showcases the vocals and is a must-listen.
It’s also well known that guitarist Hamish Stuart joined Paul McCartney’s touring band and even came to Japan.
Take the A trainRichard Tee
Richard Tee’s piano is renowned for its technical brilliance.
“Take the A Train” is a jazz standard, but in his duo with his close collaborator Steve Gadd, it’s revived with fierce energy.
His low-register techniques, among others, were groundbreaking—ideas no one had conceived of at the time.
Stay AloneTheScreenTones
The moment I heard that somewhat goofy yet wistful main phrase, Yutaka Matsushige’s expressions and tall silhouette popped into my head, and I couldn’t help getting hungry.
It’s the main theme of the smash-hit drama “The Solitary Gourmet,” a nice instrumental by The Screen Tones led by the original author, Masayuki Kusumi! The chord progression is simple yet thoughtfully crafted, and the band ensemble is exquisitely brilliant.
I’m sure many people—myself included—have listened to this track and tried becoming Goro Inogashira, the protagonist of “The Solitary Gourmet,” savoring solitude and enjoying a solo meal, just as the title suggests.
By the way, this main phrase is used in other tracks with different arrangements; personally, I also love “Tatebue Alone,” where it’s played on a recorder! I highly recommend picking up the soundtrack and giving it a listen.
