Cool band: A rock band that represents Japan

DancerFukkun:)Tatsuki Fukuda
Primarily active in Tokyo, I have experience as a backup dancer for artists, a music video dancer, and a commercial dancer. I continue to work as a dancer while also engaging in article production. After discovering Michael Jackson in junior high school, I began dancing in my second year of high school. Since starting dance, in addition to the J-Pop and Japanese rock I had been listening to, I began exploring Western R&B, rap, alternative music, and other tracks commonly used for dance. In elementary school, I spent three years in a choir, and because I love singing, I often go to karaoke for fun. These days, I enjoy a wide range of music, from Japanese rock and rap to K-pop.
Music writer / guitarist / Certified web writing practitionerHoshino Takashi
Drawing on over 30 years of experience with guitars and bands since my high school days, I specialize in music-related articles and have handled many feature pieces to date. While my tastes lean toward genres like hard rock and heavy metal since I first picked up the guitar, I make a point of listening to a wide range of styles, both Japanese and Western, on a daily basis. I began working as a freelance writer in 2018. I hold a Web Writing Practical Certification, and in addition to writing, I’m also studying video editing. In my private life, I’m raising an elementary school child and stay active while supporting their extracurriculars, such as parkour and dance.

In recent years, rock festivals of all sizes—from large-scale events to DIY gatherings—have been held across the country, and it seems like more people are listening to rock bands on a regular basis.

You’re also probably seeing band names more often on TV music programs and subscription-based music services! In this article, we’ll introduce some cool, highly recommended Japanese rock bands.

We’ll cover a wide range—from classic artists essential to the domestic rock scene to up-and-coming young bands currently in the spotlight—so be sure to find your new favorite.

And if you find a band you like, definitely experience their music live at a venue.

[Cool Bands] Japan’s Representative Rock Bands (71–80)

The seasons die one after another.amazarashi

amazarashi “Seasons Die One After Another” — Tokyo Ghoul √A ending theme

The seasons die one after another.amazarashi

Amazarashi often comes with a grim, ominous image, but their music is quite rock at its core.

Powerful instrumentals that hold their own against the weighty lyrics combine to create songs that resonate deeply.

Their MVs are striking as well, and “The Seasons Die One After Another” unfolds with astonishing content.

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Dear, boyHump Back

Hump Back – “Dear, Boy” Music Video

Dear, boyHump Back

They emerged in 2009 from a local Osaka high school’s light music club, released their first demo CD in 2012, and have since rocketed to the forefront of Japan’s emo punk scene, making their major-label debut in 2019 as a standout newcomer.

Their earnest lyrics and arrangements continue to inspire more listeners, garnering especially strong support from high school and college-aged women who aspire to play in bands.

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Massive CoreFear, and Loathing in Las Vegas

Fear, and Loathing in Las Vegas「Massive Core 」

Massive CoreFear, and Loathing in Las Vegas

Rooted in loud rock and metal while drawing on elements of trance, electro, and screamo, they’ve forged a truly one-of-a-kind musical style.

Their appeal lies not only in this distinctive approach that sets them apart from other bands, but also in their catchy, approachable vocal lines and a sound that is at times loud and heavy, at times melodious and alluring.

The contrast between the twin vocals of So and Minami—with their distinct personalities—is a delight, and the more you listen, the more you’ll want to explore their other tracks.

You’re guaranteed to be increasingly captivated by them!

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Dragon NightSEKAI NO OWARI

SEKAI NO OWARI – Dragon Night

Dragon NightSEKAI NO OWARI

SEKAI NO OWARI has gained popularity for their uniquely immersive fantasy-inspired world.

“Dragon Night” is a song that expanded their name beyond Japan and out into the world.

Enjoy the beautiful sound where a variety of instruments blend together.

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One Meets HerHitorie

Hitorie “One Meets Her” MV / HITORIE – one-Me two-Hearts

One Meets HerHitorie

Hitorie, armed with a clattering, next-generation sound.

The vocalist is skilled at composing with VOCALOID, which gives their lyrics a distinctive density.

“One Meets Her” showcases that to the fullest, delivering words that fill your heart to the brim.

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Charonnegoto

Negoto – Charon [Official Music Video]

Charonnegoto

The four-piece girls’ band Negoto.

They made their major debut in 2010 with the mini-album “Hello! ‘Z’.” The band’s name was chosen because it’s easy to remember with three characters, and since you can sing anything in a dream, the four members can create music unconstrained by genre.

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was humanHitsuji Bungaku

Hitsujibungaku “Was Human” (Official Music Video)

was humanHitsuji Bungaku

It’s sung with a somewhat languid atmosphere.

The mysterious quality you can feel from that is appealing, too.

The mix gives a good sense of depth and distance.

Even in the palm-muted sections there’s no sense of pressure at all, and the floating feel is fully realized.

The delay on the guitar’s clean tone is also extremely beautiful.

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