Classic Japanese albums: must-listen recommendations
In Japan’s music scene, there are countless outstanding classic albums that continue to resonate in people’s hearts across generations.
These masterpieces possess a timeless appeal that transcends trends and never fades.
Perhaps you, too, have an unforgettable album that holds a special place in your heart.
While the value of music varies with each person’s memories and sensibilities, the Japanese albums widely celebrated by many listeners are packed with undeniable charm.
In this article, we’ll introduce carefully selected classic Japanese albums that have been loved across eras and generations.
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Japanese music masterpieces: Must-listen recommended albums (11–20)
Lovely melodySUGAR BABE
The timeless classic album SONGS radiates with eternal brilliance.
Released in April 1975, it was SUGAR BABE’s debut, a work that revolutionized the Japanese pop scene.
Strongly influenced by Western music yet pursuing a distinctly original sound, this album can be seen as the starting point for talents like Tatsuro Yamashita and Taeko Onuki, who would later come to represent Japanese music.
Its innovative arrangements—featuring polyrhythmic developments and Latin rhythm patterns—remain as fresh as ever, continuing to captivate listeners’ hearts.
A gem that any music lover should hear at least once.
Why not let yourself fall under the spell of music tonight with this masterpiece?
Don’t give upZARD
The album Yureru Omoi, released in July 1993, is known as ZARD’s fourth studio album and is regarded as a masterpiece.
It features a diverse range of songs, from emotional ballads to pop tunes.
Characterized by Izumi Sakai’s clear, transparent vocals and melodies that resonate with the heart, the album includes many tracks themed around heartbreak, hope, and everyday moments.
One of the tracks, Makenaide, was used in a Nissin Cup Noodles commercial and is widely known as a song that gives courage to many people.
Listening to the album as a whole lets you appreciate ZARD’s musicality more deeply.
It’s highly recommended for those who want to be soothed by heartfelt lyrics and beautiful melodies.
Ultramarine DaysToukyou Jihen
Tokyo Incidents’ first album, Kyōiku, released in 2004.
Many rock fans will likely recognize the red-and-white cover emblazoned with the origami crane logo.
In addition to the debut single Gunjo Biyori and the second single Sōnan, the album is packed with tracks that cross over a variety of musical genres.
It’s also the only album recorded by the band’s original lineup, which is one reason this work stands as a landmark masterpiece.
LemonYonezu Kenshi
Kenshi Yonezu, who continues to dominate the J-pop scene with his original world-building and modern musical sensibilities, released his fifth album in August 2020—a work that reflects his curiosity and journey as a singer-songwriter.
Blending pop and alternative elements, the album features his distinctive melodies and profound lyrics.
It received high acclaim upon release and produced numerous hit songs.
Tracks like “Kanden” and “Uma to Shika” have been especially popular, drawing wide attention across various media, including their music videos.
His unique musical style—employing a wide range of instruments such as synthesizers and strings—grips listeners and doesn’t let go.
Highly recommended for anyone seeking a fresh musical experience.
STORYWRITERSUPERCAR
HIGHVISION, a masterpiece packed with SUPERCAR’s musical experimentation.
Released in April 2002, this album captivates listeners with its unique sound that fuses alternative rock and electronica.
It reached No.
11 on the Oricon album chart and received high praise from music critics.
Especially noteworthy is Storywriter, which was used in the soundtrack for the anime Eureka Seven.
The tracks blur the line between digital and analog, unfolding with comfortable beats that stimulate sensations beyond words.
A must-listen for anyone who wants to feel a new horizon in music.
Heroineback number
Back Number’s album “Chandelier” is their fifth album, released in December 2015.
Imbued with the band’s desire to create songs that are close to their listeners, it features many popular tracks, including poignant love-themed songs.
In particular, the third track, “Heroine,” was used in JR East’s ski trip campaign commercial, making it one of their signature songs.
Packed with the essence of Back Number’s appeal, this album is recommended for those struggling with love or anyone who wants to find small moments of happiness in everyday life.
Masterpieces of Japanese music: Must-listen recommended albums (21–30)
fireworksaiko
Aiko has woven the joys and bittersweet pangs of love into delicate words, resonating deeply with many fans.
Her 2000 release Sakurano Ki no Shita became a million-seller and a landmark album that cemented her name.
Featuring signature tracks like Hanabi and Kabutomushi, its sound—rooted in J-pop while blending elements of jazz and rock—was highly acclaimed, earning honors such as the Japan Gold Disc Award.
Hailed as an album with “no filler” and “lyrics everyone can relate to,” it captivated listeners with a world that captures every moment of romance and melodies you can’t forget once you hear them.
This work, which brings back the flutter and ache of being in love, overflows with a timeless charm no matter when you listen.