[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 (81–90)
That’s the way of the WorldRichard Tee
Richard Tee, a pianist who left behind numerous brilliant performances when crossover first started to become popular.
This mellow ballad, featured on one of his leader albums, showcases his distinctive compositional skill and lyrical sensibility, and he recorded it multiple times up until his passing.
Into The ArenaMichael Schenker
It’s a textbook example of a rock instrumental, a masterpiece among masterpieces where you can savor the ultimate guitar riffs and solos! This track is by Michael Schenker, the German guitarist revered as a “god” and hugely popular here in Japan, included on the debut album The Michael Schenker Group, released under the Michael Schenker Group name in 1980.
The Japanese title of the album—“Kami — Kaettekita Flying Arrow” (“God — The Flying V has Returned”)—is striking enough on its own, but surely no one would dispute that this is the finest instrumental ever sent into the world by the guitar god himself.
Though its structure is simple—main riff, solo, back to the riff, then another solo—the solid, high-tension riff, the ad‑libbed solo centered on the pentatonic scale, and the meticulously crafted band ensemble are all nothing short of perfect and cool.
And that passionate, crying melody in the latter half heats up your whole body just by listening!
child’s anthemTOTO
This is the song that opens TOTO’s first album.
It’s quite moving to think that this was the starting point for this super band.
Even recently, a cover of this song was used in a TV commercial, so I think many people find it familiar.
TOTO is a well-known group of top-tier technicians, and this track really lets you savor their musicianship.
Jeff Porcaro’s drumming in particular is phenomenal.
ParanoimiaThe Art of Noise
Art of Noise is a unit led by producer Trevor Horn—known as the mastermind behind “Video Killed the Radio Star” (The Buggles) and the revival of Yes—who was hailed as a darling of the 1980s.
Incidentally, the CG character Max Headroom who appears in the music video is a virtual host from a British music program.
In the video where the suit-clad CG old-timer yells “Paranoimia!” you can catch a glimpse of the Trevor Horn world.
James Bond ThemeJohn Barry Orchestra
“The James Bond Theme.” It shot to popularity as the theme song for the movie 007.
Even if you haven’t seen the film, you’ve probably heard it somewhere.
It’s a cool track right from the start.
A simple yet glamorous fusion of jazz and orchestra.
From beginning to end, it’s thrilling and exciting.
It’s a song I especially recommend to men as well.
NutmegInfected Mushroom
This is a track by Infected Mushroom, who continually create avant-garde, experimental psychedelic trance.
It’s an intriguing piece that ranges from toy-like sounds to a cinematic, majestic atmosphere.
It’s on the longer side, but time will fly by.
The occasional aggressive lead synths feel incredibly satisfying.
[2026] Masterpieces of Instrumental Music: Recommended Instrumental Tracks (91–100)
Love YaMatsumoto Takahiro
Tak Matsumoto, the guitarist and composer of Japan’s best-selling unit, B’z, has long remained at the forefront of the music scene.
His activities extend far beyond Japan: he was the first Japanese musician to become a Gibson Les Paul signature artist, and TAKE YOUR PICK, the album he released in 2010 in collaboration with the renowned guitarist Larry Carlton, won the Grammy Award for Best Pop Instrumental Album at the 53rd Annual Grammy Awards, earning him worldwide acclaim.
While his solo work is often represented by #1090 ~Thousand Dreams~, the theme song for Music Station, today I’d like to introduce his landmark debut single, ’88 ~Love Story.
The guitar’s rich tone, delivering a melody with an oriental atmosphere, is truly superb, making it a masterpiece that lets you fully savor Matsumoto’s prowess as a guitarist.