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 (51–60)

Is that okay?RADWIMPS

RADWIMPS – Is That Alright? 2017 ver. [Official Music Video]

Is that okay?RADWIMPS

RADWIMPS has drawn huge attention for handling the theme songs of the films Your Name and Weathering With You, but they’ve been a hugely popular band in the Japanese rock scene since long before that! It’s mind-blowing that their first album, RADWIMPS—which includes classics like the “Moshimo ‘Minna Issho ni’ Version”—was recorded when they were in high school.

Since then, they’ve continued to evolve by incorporating various musical genres, yet what’s so appealing is that somewhere within it all, the unmistakable RADWIMPS flavor that hasn’t changed since the old days is still hidden.

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Ms. Hanako on a high pedestalback number

Back Number – Hanako-san on a High Pedestal

Ms. Hanako on a high pedestalback number

Back Number often provides theme songs for TV dramas and films and is a band with a high level of name recognition.

They have created many songs centered on romance, garnering widespread empathy and support from a broad range of listeners.

In addition to the intrinsic appeal of their music, one of their strengths lies in vocalist Iyori Shimizu’s richly resonant lower-mid register and the familiar, catchy melodies that make you want to hum along.

They’re recommended even for those who don’t usually listen to rock bands, and they’re also a group that regular rock listeners should revisit.

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BASEBALL BATSiM

SiM – BASEBALL BAT (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

BASEBALL BATSiM

SiM is a hugely popular rock band that bills their music as “reggae punk,” rocking venues nationwide all the way up to major festivals.

Under the banner of reggae punk, their distinctive, mixed sound weaves in approaches from loud rock, ska, and electronic music, all while keeping a catchy, high-energy vibe that really gets the kids dancing.

You can also feel the charisma of vocalist MAH through his lyrics.

They have a lot of songs in English, but be sure to listen while reading the lyrics!

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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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[Cool Bands] Japan’s leading rock bands (61–70)

Loverssumika

Lovers / sumika（Cover）

Loverssumika

sumika is a band that’s definitely growing in popularity right now.

Their stylish sound often carries lyrics that make you feel happy.

Among their songs, this one is especially catchy, and its lyrics make it a track you’ll want to listen to when you’re in love.

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BASISBRAHMAN

BRAHMAN 『BASIS』

BASISBRAHMAN

A four-piece rock band that has won a devoted following with a hybrid sound blending the pop sensibilities and breakneck pace of melodic hardcore with oriental melodies inspired by folk music.

Revered for a one-of-a-kind sound that only BRAHMAN can produce and for intense live performances that sweep up the audience, the band is known for its profound influence on subsequent generations.

Their vocalist TOSHI-LOW, nicknamed the “Oni” (demon) due to numerous legends, has also drawn attention in recent years for a more seasoned side, publishing the book “Oniben: A Tough-Looking Punk Rocker’s Bento Battle Diary,” which compiles the boxed lunches he made for his own child.

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Hoshino Takashi

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STAY TUNESuchmos

Suchmos – STAY TUNE [Official Music Video]

STAY TUNESuchmos

Suchmos is a rock band formed in 2013.

Their signature song “STAY TUNE” became a breakout hit in 2016, which is likely how many people first heard of them.

Their appeal lies in songs built on a rock foundation while incorporating elements of acid jazz, funk, and hip-hop.

These stylish tracks have been featured in multiple commercials, so many people have probably heard their music while watching TV.

Although they gained broad popularity, the band announced a hiatus in 2021.

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