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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Masterpieces of Japanese music: Must-listen recommended albums (21–30)
The strong and fleeting onesCocco
The second album by Okinawan singer-songwriter Cocco, Kumuiuta, is a classic released in May 1998.
It debuted at No.
1 on the Oricon Weekly Chart and went on to sell nearly one million copies.
As suggested by its title—meaning “lullaby” in the Okinawan dialect—the album is captivating for its distinctive sensibility and poetic lyrics.
Blending J-pop with alternative rock, the songs reflect Okinawan culture and scenery, marked by deep emotion and beautiful melodies.
The track Tsuyoku Hakanai Monotachi was also used as the theme song for a TV drama, further boosting Cocco’s recognition.
FantasistaDragon Ash
HARVEST, the album by Dragon Ash, a band that has led Japan’s mixture rock scene.
The tracks on this album skillfully blend elements from a variety of genres, including hip-hop, rock, Latin, and electronica.
Among them, FANTASISTA—selected as an official support song for the 2002 FIFA World Cup—is a must-listen.
From intense, loud rock to mellow tunes and even tracks with a strong hip-hop flavor, the album lets you fully savor Dragon Ash’s appeal.
Classic Japanese music masterpieces: must-listen recommended albums (31–40)
no.13ELLEGARDEN
This is ELLEGARDEN’s second album, released in July 2003.
It became their first work to enter the top 100 on Japan’s Oricon album chart.
It features many enduring fan favorites, including Jitterbug, Venus, and No.13.
Its positive, energetic vibe grabs listeners and never lets go.
It’s an album we highly recommend even to younger listeners who may only know their 2022 release, The End of Yesterday.
frecklesJUDY AND MARY
JUDY AND MARY’s fourth album, THE POWER SOURCE, is a masterpiece that revolutionized the music scene of the ’90s.
After its release in March 1997, it reached No.
1 on the Oricon weekly album chart and achieved an astonishing 2.8 million sales.
The sound woven from YUKI’s striking vocals and TAKUYA’s catchy guitar hooks grabs listeners’ hearts and won’t let go.
The track “Sobakasu” was used as the opening theme for the anime Rurouni Kenshin and became a massive hit.
It’s a nostalgic yet powerful album you’ll want to listen to alongside memories of your youth.
ROSIERLUNA SEA
Released in October 1994 and peaking at No.
2 on the Oricon chart, MOTHER was certified Platinum and remains one of LUNA SEA’s most beloved albums.
From signature tracks like ROSIER and LOVELESS onward, it features a rich variety in tone, sound, and lyrical themes.
It’s a work that showcases the breadth of LUNA SEA’s artistry, making it especially recommended for those who haven’t yet explored their music.
to youMONGOL800
Message is an album released in September 2001 by MONGOL800, a three-piece rock band from Okinawa.
The album includes Anata ni and Chiisana Koi no Uta, two of the band’s signature songs, and is highly regarded as a landmark in Japanese rock.
From straightforward love songs to tracks that address themes like Okinawa’s vanishing nature and the realities of war, it’s packed with songs that resonate deeply with listeners.
It’s undoubtedly an essential record when discussing the masterpieces of the Japanese rock scene.
ParadiseTHE YELLOW MONKEY
A quintessential work by THE YELLOW MONKEY, a band that has led Japan’s rock scene, is their sixth album “SICKS,” released in January 1997.
Topping the Oricon charts, the album features a diverse array of tracks that blend elements of hard rock and glam rock.
With Kazuya Yoshii’s distinctive vocals, highly message-driven lyrics, and the band’s exceptional musicianship in perfect harmony, this is a must-listen not only for rock fans.
Including standout tracks like “Rakuen,” it’s packed with compelling songs, making it especially recommended for anyone looking to rediscover The Yellow Monkey’s music.