[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] Instrumental Masterpieces: Recommended Instrumental Tracks (51–60)
AmnesiaBlotted Science
This is a track by Blotted Science, a perverse/avant-garde band that I could never recommend to everyone.
It’s a strange piece that blends classical elements while taking an approach akin to death metal.
Its unsettling, eerie quality might become addictive and captivating for some listeners.
Samba Dedicated to You (Samba Pa Ti)Santana
A track released as a single from the 1974 Japan live album Lotus.
While preserving Santana’s Latin spirit, it has a beautiful melody and evokes a refreshing breeze.
It also carries a slightly fusion-like vibe, and perhaps the fact that it feels a bit un-Santana is part of its appeal.
You skipped it, right?H ZETTRIO
Packed with a fresh dose of charm from the piano trio H ZETTRIO, “Tobashitassho” is a digital-only single released on January 1, 2024.
Its catchy melody and effervescent rhythm stand out, drawing listeners into a bright, uplifting mood.
Showcasing the breadth of their musicality, the track is part of a project in which they release a new song every month—a testament to their deep love of music.
Their achievement on December 1, 2023—reaching 60 consecutive months of releases—is impressive, too.
Perfect as a soundtrack to color your everyday life, this is a song you’ll want to play on repeat once you’ve heard it.
Walking with youFukuyama Masaharu
Masaharu Fukuyama’s new instrumental piece “Walking with you” is a moving work that stirs the heart.
Released in October 2023 in a Nippon Life web movie and featured in their commercial, the song carries a message of “walking together with someone you cherish.” Warmth and hope.
Its beautiful yet wistful guitar melody will gently find its way into listeners’ hearts.
Among the many facets of Fukuyama’s musicality on display, this piece especially highlights the strength of the melodies he weaves.
It’s perfect for when weekdays are hectic and you want to relax on the weekend, or when you wish to spend a quiet moment thinking of someone special.
You’re sure to discover a new way to appreciate Masaharu Fukuyama’s music!
[2026] Masterpieces of Instrumental Music: Recommended Instrumental Tracks (61–70)
A taste of honeyThe Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass
The original is a Broadway musical from 1960 (music by Bobby Scott).
It became instantly famous when the Beatles featured it on their 1963 debut album.
This version was included on the classic 1965 album “Bittersweet Samba” and reached No.
7 on the U.S.
singles chart.
Compared to the Beatles’ rendition, aside from the presence or absence of vocals, the light, Latin rhythmic feel is especially pleasing.
Always With Me, Always With YouJoe Satriani
A masterpiece that distills the essence of instrumental music, “Always With Me, Always With You.” The melody woven by Joe Satriani resonates pleasingly in the ear, as if spinning words rich with emotion.
Each note gently nestles against the heart, and the beautiful tune lifts the spirit.
Graceful, yet at times passionate.
As you listen, you may find your eyes closing naturally, drawn into an introspective world.
This evocative piece shows just how many stories a single guitar can tell—highly recommended.
FreedomJoshi Jūnigakubō
Many of you might hear this Oriental phrase and think, “Oh, that takes me back,” right? This is a famous piece by the Twelve Girls Band, who became hugely popular by skillfully using traditional Asian instruments—centered on Chinese ones—to create their own brand of instrumental music.
Formed in Beijing in 2001, they broke into the Japanese market in 2003, and their album ‘Beautiful Energy,’ which included covers of Japanese hit songs tailored for Japan, became a massive hit.
Although the lineup has been fluid, every member is a top-tier musician with elite musical training, and their polished sound continues to be loved by people of all ages.
The song introduced here is one of their signature tracks, and in Japan it was used in commercials and TV tie-ins.
Incidentally, the original piece is said to be by Santuri Ethem Efendi, a musician of Ottoman classical music from Turkey.
