The Appeal of Japanese Blues Rock: A Collection of Classic Japanese Blues Rock Albums

POPS writer/editorKEI
Since discovering music during my school days, I’ve mainly listened to Japanese and Korean pop. I have experience writing articles for sites like Utaten. 2000s J-pop and 2010s K-pop were especially the soundtrack of my youth. With the mindset that “good is good,” I enjoy music across genres. Thanks to past work environments and their influence, I was exposed to lots of classic rock and kayōkyoku (Japanese popular songs), which may have broadened the scope of what I love. At RAG MUSIC, I currently focus on K-pop and J-pop. I strive to edit with a feel for the scene and an eye for hit potential.
music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.

Blues is, to begin with, one of the most important roots of rock ’n’ roll.

The theme of this article, however—“blues rock”—is a genre in which British musicians, primarily, reinterpreted American-born blues through the lens of the rock generation.

Musicians with that kind of style have emerged not only overseas but also here in Japan, and they’ve created important works that remain part of the Japanese music scene.

This time, we researched classic albums centered on Japanese-style blues rock and put together a selection that also includes recent works showing the influence of blues rock.

Please enjoy the passionate performances of musicians infused with the spirit of the blues!

The Appeal of Japanese Blues Rock: A Collection of Classic Japanese Blues Rock Albums (11–20)

T-Jiros

Love in the GutterT-junctions

T-junctions – Love in the Dump (Official Music Video)

Love in the Gutter T-jirous

T-junctions are a blues duo whose appeal lies in their musicality, which absorbs a variety of genres such as blues and folk.

This song was written specifically for the film “Love and Other Cults,” and its relaxed rhythm and evocative performance create a distinctly bluesy atmosphere.

As an anthem for those who can’t find light in their lives, its warm lyrics really resonate.

The low, husky vocals of Taeko Ito are wonderful as well, making it perfect for moments when you want to calm your mind or listen at an easy pace.

収録曲は、グルーヴ感あふれる彼らの2017年のダイナミックなアルバム『T字路s』に収められ、以降の活動の礎となった。

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Big Boss Men

Big Boss MenZa Burū Hevun

BLUE HEAVEN / Big boss man. Jan 1982

Big Boss MenZa Burū Hevun

Released in 1982, The Blue Heaven’s album “Big Boss Men” is regarded as a masterpiece of Japanese-made blues rock.

While rooted in American blues, the album is infused with a uniquely Japanese sensibility, captivating many Japanese fans with its moving performances and vocals.

On the title track “Big Boss Men,” razor-sharp guitar riffs and powerful vocals stand out, achieving a superb fusion of blues feeling with a surging rock rhythm.

Loved across generations, this work has influenced not only music fans but also a new generation of artists.

The Blue Heaven’s masterful performances overflow with the depth of the blues and the dynamism of rock, enchanting every listener.

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Dance With Hanashi

Southern Route 88Hanashin

Hananobi – Southern Route 88

Southern Route 88Hanashin

Hanashin’s album “Dance with Hanashin” includes the moving track “Southern Route 88.” Though it was released in 1999, after many years have passed, it still carries the raw energy that evokes late-1970s Osaka.

The emotionally rich harmonies showcase the deft production skills of Ginji Ito.

Every moment of the performance burns with intensity, powerfully resonating with listeners.

Unfortunately, there is little information available about the song’s promotion or public reception.

Even so, there’s no doubt that this album is one of the gems of Japanese blues rock.

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HELLO

Call meDrop’s

Drop’s “Call Me” Music Video

Call meDrop's

Drop’s is a girls’ band from Hokkaido, known for their powerful, rock ’n’ roll-infused blues.

Let me introduce their second album, “HELLO.” The record features many high-energy tracks, including their debut single “Call Me” and “Dracula Summer.” While blues often carries a downbeat image, this album feels more like a push on the back—music that lifts you up.

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peasant uprising

Kamona UshakodaUshakoda

Ushakoda / Kamona Ushakoda 1979

Kamona UshakodaUshakoda

Ushakoda’s “Kamona Ushakoda” can be called a landmark album that breathed new life into Japanese blues rock.

From their 1978 debut to the present, Ushakoda have embraced a variety of musical styles while staying true to the spirit of the blues.

This track brilliantly fuses the blues’ weighty soul with rock’s fiery energy, stirring the listener’s heart.

Innovative yet evocative of the history of Japanese blues, their work is essential listening for many music fans.

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In conclusion

As mentioned at the outset, there are still many artists around the world—including in Japan—who play rock infused with the spirit of the blues.

It’s true that bands devoted solely to blues rock have a hard time breaking into the mainstream and achieving commercial success, but after listening to the albums introduced here, it might be interesting to look for contemporary bands that show the influence of blues rock!