Iconic songs by Japanese rock bands from the 2000s [J-Rock]
When you think of Japanese rock bands from the 2000s, which bands come to mind?
You might think of the quintessential guitar rock bands like BUMP OF CHICKEN, ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION, ELLEGARDEN, and Fujifabric, or the bands that supported the early-2000s youth punk movement such as 175R and Gagaga SP.
There were also many bands that became widely known beyond rock fans, like Tokyo Jihen, ORANGE RANGE, and HY, so I’m sure each listener has their own bands that pop into mind.
In this article, we’ll introduce a wide selection of signature tracks and recommended favorites from rock bands that were active in the 2000s.
We’ve picked everything from nostalgic tunes to timeless staples that are still going strong today, so take this opportunity to give them a careful listen once again.
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Masterpieces by 2000s Japanese Rock Bands [J-Rock] (41–50)
Succubus ~ The NightmareBUCK-TICK
This track appears near the end of BUCK-TICK’s standout concept album “Juusankai wa Gekkou,” released in April 2005.
It conjures a nightmare-like scene in which a wandering soul in the afterlife joins the procession of a hyakki-yagyō.
The dramatic development woven by the heavy band sound and ethereal sonics pulls the listener into a darkly beautiful realm.
A centerpiece of the band’s gothic live staging, it’s the perfect song for immersing yourself in a decadent, beautiful worldview.
READY STEADY GOL’Arc〜en〜Ciel
The song chosen as the second opening theme for the TV anime Fullmetal Alchemist is L’Arc~en~Ciel’s “READY STEADY GO.” Released as a single in 2004, it reached No.
1 on the Oricon Singles Chart.
L’Arc~en~Ciel, who had been releasing hit after hit since the 1990s, delivered one of the defining tracks of the 2000s with this song.
Characterized by its fast-paced, punkish sound, it has also become a fan favorite at live shows.
In the Morning of DeterminationAqua Timez
A five-member rock band that represented the 2000s mixture scene in J-pop and sadly disbanded in 2018, Aqua Timez released this as their first major-label single and second single overall.
Known as the theme song for the animated film “Brave Story,” it was written and composed after hearing the film’s synopsis.
The track packs in numerous elements: a fluid, unfolding melody characteristic of Aqua Timez, a richly layered sound featuring strings, and the solid underpinning of the band’s instrumentation.
On top of that, it’s a comfortable listen that evokes the film’s world.
Another day comesPay money To my Pain
This song by Pay money To my Pain is marked by heavy guitar riffs and K’s emotional vocals.
The lyrics, which sing of wrestling with inner darkness and the strength to never lose hope, really resonate.
It was included on the album “Another Day Comes,” released in September 2007, and was also used as the ending theme for the tokusatsu drama ULTRASEVEN X.
It’s recommended for times when you want to face yourself or need the courage to overcome difficulties.
The band’s soul-stirring sound is sure to give you a push forward.
Telecastic fake showRin to shite Shigure
The debut single by the three-piece rock band Ling tosite sigure, whose distinctive high-tone vocals leave a lasting impression after just one listen.
The hysterical guitar sound, tight rhythm, and the male-female twin vocal melodies riding on the arrangement are irresistibly catchy.
With a sound thickness and complex beats you wouldn’t expect from a trio, the song’s structure is so intricate that you can’t grasp it all in a single listen, creating a uniquely 2000s rock atmosphere.
It’s a track where a sense of speed and complexity coexist—one you’ll want to play over and over again.
AM11:00HY
A rock band based in Okinawa, HY has produced many classic songs with a style that switches between male and female twin vocals depending on the track.
This song, included on their second indie album “Street Story,” became known as the number that put HY’s name on the map despite being an album track without any tie-in.
It’s a refreshing tune featuring the appealing voices of both vocalists, a catchy chorus harmony, and even a rap part.
It’s a song that lets you soak in a pleasant atmosphere, emblematic of the increasingly diverse band setups and song structures that defined the J-pop scene of the 2000s.
Flower of IllusionBUCK-TICK
Among BUCK-TICK’s many masterpieces, this song shines with a uniquely solitary brilliance.
Evoking the sparkle of fleeting life and a tender, contemplative gaze upon it, the piece fuses Atsushi Sakurai’s poetic worldview with a beautiful melody crafted by Hidehiko Hoshino, stirring the listener to the core.
Although released as a single in December 2003, the song originally emerged from the concept for the album “Kyokutou I LOVE YOU,” and was recorded after a surprise unveiling at their Hibiya Open-Air Concert Hall performance in June 2003.
It’s a work best heard on a quiet night of introspection.
peeled orangeToukyou Sukapara Daisu Ookesutora
Mekureta Orange is a collaboration between Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra, one of Japan’s leading ska bands, and Takao Tajima of ORIGINAL LOVE.
Released as a single in 2001, it was also Skapara’s first vocal-led single.
The contrast between the lively ska rhythm and Tajima’s rich, mature vocals is really compelling.
It’s a dance number that’ll make you sway, complete with the band’s signature, luxurious horn sound fully on display.
Thinking in Yura Yura Teikokuyurayura teikoku
Formed in 1989, Yura Yura Teikoku is a legendary J-rock band that has remained at the forefront of Japan’s rock scene, influencing many artists.
“Yura Yura Teikoku de Kangae Chuu” is their third single, released in 2000, and it was used as the opening theme for Fuji TV’s variety show “Waratte Iitomo.” The simple rock sound driven by guitar, bass, and drums is complemented by Shintaro Sakamoto’s murmured, talk-like vocals, which leave a strong impression.
RIVER10-FEET
When talking about Japan’s rock band scene and domestic music festivals, you can’t leave out 10-FEET, the three-piece rock band from Kyoto.
They’re an act that plays not only live houses across the country but also throws themselves into major outdoor rock festivals.
Their popularity is obvious when you look at their own summer festival, Kyoto Daisakusen, which they host.
As a flagship band of the Japanese rock scene, their appeal is hard to sum up in a few words: from high-velocity tracks powered by a muscular, distorted guitar sound to ballads marked by moving, tear-jerking melodies, plus lyrics packed with heartfelt, stirring messages that really hit home.
If you’re looking for passionate rock that stands by your heart, they come highly recommended!
