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 (151–160)

Lovely MagicLe Lien

Le Lien Lovely Magic MV

Lovely MagicLe Lien

It’s a girls’ band under Stardust Promotion with a name that means “bond.” Each member pursues music alongside modeling and acting, and they made their major debut on September 2, 2015 with their first single, “Ganbari Doki.”

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FREE BIRDSORAMIMI

[PV] SORAMIMI “FREE BIRD” (Full)

FREE BIRDSORAMIMI

SORAMIMI is a four-piece girls’ band formed in 2013.

Classified within 2010s pop, they captivated many fans with their unique style and sound.

In 2014, they released their first indie single and actively expanded their activities, including performing at Niconico Chokaigi.

In 2015, they won the Grand Prix in the indie category at Cute Girls Live and were selected to appear as the opening act at NAON no YAON 2015.

The members are highly skilled as well—the bassist and drummer each received BEEAST’s “Featured Women Musicians Award.” Combining the charm unique to a girls’ band with solid musicianship, SORAMIMI’s music continues to be loved by many.

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DeterminationLASTGASP

LASTGASP "Determination" MUSIC VIDEO (Opening Theme of "Yowamushi Pedal GRANDE ROAD")

DeterminationLASTGASP

LASTGASP was formed in 2006 in Okazaki, Aichi Prefecture.

All lyrics and compositions are handled by vocalist and guitarist Yuki Okada.

In 2014, despite being an indie band, their song “Determination” was selected as the opening theme for season 2 of the popular anime Yowamushi Pedal.

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I MY ME MINESpecialThank

SpecialThanks “I MY ME MINE”【PV】

I MY ME MINESpecialThank

It’s interesting that it’s a three-piece band with a female vocalist.

The songs themselves are on the mellow side, yet they have a rock feel, which is very striking.

The gentle singing voice miraculously matches the overall rock vibe, and I think it’s a fusion of cool and beautiful.

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lamplightMINAMI NiNE

MINAMI NiNE "Tomoshibi" OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

lamplightMINAMI NiNE

MINAMI NiNE, which began activities in 2015, is a rock band from Miyazaki Prefecture.

They’re a three-piece with bassist Hiroki on vocals, known for a unique hybrid style that’s rooted in melodic hardcore and infused with reggae elements.

They have fast, punk-leaning tracks as well as more laid-back songs, but what ties them all together is Hiroki’s warm voice.

Just listening can fill you with a soothing, nostalgic feeling.

Take this opportunity to give their gentle, heartfelt music a listen.

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Don’t Like youthe American Movie

the American Movie 2012.05.03! “Don’t Like you”

Don't Like youthe American Movie

Formed in 2010 in Kitakyushu, Fukuoka Prefecture, with MUNECHIKA and TAMI at its core.

Heavily influenced by ’90s US pop, pop punk, emotional rock, hardcore, and melodic punk, their music carries a sense of nostalgia and is packed with catchy, sing-along phrases that linger in your ears.

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[Cool Bands] Japan’s Representative Rock Bands (161–170)

I Wanna Keep My Head UpTHUMB

I Wanna Keep My Head Up

I Wanna Keep My Head UpTHUMB

A high-energy melodic hardcore band with a driving sound! Formed in 1997, the three-piece band THUMB was launched by former members of SHERBET at its core.

They released numerous dynamic tracks, including the albums “PEACE OF MIND” and “Let’s Grow Up Together.” In 2000, they proved their popularity by selling out tickets instantly for the “Nine Samurai” tour.

Although they disbanded in 2002, they reunited in 2014.

Their guitar sound—deftly weaving together power chords and harmonics—is absolutely irresistible.

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