[J-Pop] From Rising Stars to Legends! Japan’s Must-Listen Alternative Rock Bands
Alternative rock is a music genre that emerged from approaches to rock that differ from the mainstream.
There are many people who say, “I love alternative sounds that I’ve never encountered before—music that shakes my soul!” In this article, we’ll introduce alternative rock bands from the Japanese music scene.
Thunderous noise, lyrics with a somewhat dark atmosphere that weigh heavily on the heart, ferocious performances that lay emotions bare… and on the other hand, musical styles that are brisk and stylish—each band has its own distinctive traits.
Be sure to find your favorite, coolest act.
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[J-Pop/Rock] From rising stars to legends! Must-listen Japanese alternative rock bands (81–90)
smokePerushikaria
Persicaria is a rock band from Saitama Prefecture.
While they’re introduced as an alternative rock band, their music strongly reflects pop and classic rock elements, featuring approachable, unfussy melodies.
A track that really showcases their appeal is Kemuri (“Smoke”).
It’s a song marked by an extremely catchy progression, and as you’ll hear, their style emphasizes letting the lyrics shine.
Many of Persicaria’s songs follow this vein, so be sure to check them out.
Moralist S.S.Lillies and Remains
Since their debut in 2008, this much-talked-about band has been delivering an authentically real New Wave and Post-Punk sound—something Japanese artists had never truly achieved before—leaving a powerful impact on dedicated music listeners and industry insiders alike.
Their fleetingly beautiful melodies are particularly striking.
If it’s going to wither anywaysekando bakka
Second Backer is a band active primarily on social media.
While rooted in alternative rock, their hallmark is catchy lyrics and hooks.
Among their songs, the one I especially recommend is Dōse Kareru Nara (“If We’re Going to Wither Anyway”).
It’s a track crafted in a breezy late-2000s alternative rock style, and despite being a three-piece, you can really feel how full and satisfying the performance is.
Beyond their sound, the lyrics are excellent too, so be sure to check them out.
GIGCHIANZ
CHIANZ is a four-piece all-girl band built on breezy groove music, featuring stylish guitars and a funky bass.
They made their debut on March 6, 2024.
The collaboration between eill—who also works as a solo singer-songwriter with a smoky voice—and Foi, a vocal-guitarist influenced by C-pop, is irresistible.
Keep an eye on the tight rhythm section from former Hi Cheers! members Chie and Rei Tsukikawa as well.
With a message of “Let’s dance together without being bound by pointless rules,” their sound is both danceable and wonderfully healing.
Be sure to check them out!
Suzunari Memoriesthe molars’
the奥歯’s is a band from Hiroshima captivating many listeners with their energetic punk sound.
The members are Shunto Asabe, Haruma Asabe, and Jin.
They made their debut in 2021 with the single “Maeba,” steadily building popularity through tours and festival appearances.
In March 2023, they released the mini-album “Yoru no Jūnin” (Night Dwellers).
Championing rock ’n’ roll for the underdogs, their music—drawing the line between the everyday and the extraordinary—is truly stunning.
Their live shows enthrall audiences with powerful playing and passionate performances.
Punk fans, of course, and anyone wanting to keep up with the current music scene should definitely check them out.
moratoriumyutori
Yutori, a band named after the fact that all its members are part of the “yutori” generation, released their first album, Moratorium, in 2022.
Just one month after forming, they drew attention on the indie band distribution site Eggs and quickly became a hot topic on social media.
Their hallmark is a youthful, refreshing sound, and vocalist Kotoko Sato’s fresh, clear voice is especially captivating.
The album’s title track, Moratorium, was also selected as the theme song for the WOWOW original drama “Early Morning, First Train, Desolate,” and the band has been gaining attention in recent years.
[J-Pop] From rising stars to legends! Japan’s must-hear alternative rock bands (91–100)
DNAkaranoa
Karanoa is a rock band formed in November 2020.
Their sound is characterized by diverse musicality born from each member’s different musical roots.
Embracing the concept of an “ideal band that blends into everyday life,” they aim to create songs that stay close to listeners’ daily routines.
Their 2022 release Night was a success, and their first self-produced live show sold out.
Centered around performances in Shibuya and Shimokitazawa, they are steadily growing their fanbase.
With youthful, energetic performances and lyrics that portray everyday life, their music truly resonates—keep an eye on them!