[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] From rising stars to legends! Japan’s must-hear alternative rock bands (91–100)
induced wavetogaru
Togaru is the solo project of vocalist-guitarist Yokoyama, who hails from Aichi Prefecture.
It originally formed as a four-piece band, but after members left, it shifted to its current format.
The “modern grunge” that Yokoyama champions is characterized by a style that tastefully blends grunge as a foundation with his own borderless background.
It might be fun to take your time exploring the songs to discover what kinds of sounds you can hear—grunge, emo, guitar rock, pop, and more.
disgusting horror movieKoBowwa
KoBowwa, pronounced “Kobauwa,” was a four-piece alternative band that was active mainly around Shimokitazawa, Tokyo, and began their career in 2022.
Vocalist Keitaro Mori’s trembling, tearful voice left a strong impression, as if expressing the intense, ungovernable emotions of youth.
While the word “emotional” often suggests delicacy, their music also conveyed a solid, robust power.
The band has since disbanded.
throw out your heartSigarDown
Formed in Tokyo in 2018, SigerDown is a young band whose style evokes emo and alternative rock.
Their signature is a wall of sound built around comfortably overdriven guitars and raspy, shouted vocals.
Many rock fans were likely hooked from the very first listen.
Beyond their sonic appeal, lyrics that bare their inner selves and song structures that make you want to sing along are key points that captivate listeners.
They’re also a band whose live performances are worth keeping an eye on.
City GirlKOHAKU
KOHAKU is a three-piece band based in Sapporo, Hokkaido.
They’re a newcomer band that started in 2021, and while there are still some rough edges, those very imperfections have become part of their charm, gripping listeners’ hearts.
Sophisticated, complex alternative rock is great, but there are times when you want rock that, even if unpolished, hits you right at your core.
KOHAKU is the perfect band for moments like that.
Their lyrics are often beautiful as well, so be sure to check them out.
one’s true feelingstoro
In Japan’s domestic rock scene, there are many bands that are so far from rock they’re practically pop.
Of course, that’s where the demand is, so there’s nothing inherently wrong with that, but I imagine many people feel dissatisfied with the scene as it is.
For those people, I’d like to recommend the band toro.
They’re a three-piece that champions the “revival of rock” and is actively making waves.
Their authentic sound rivals that of the Western rock scene.
Definitely give them a listen.