Japanese grunge bands. A roundup of bands influenced by grunge.
Grunge, one of the music genres born in the United States in the 1990s, is an important movement that defined an era within the rock scene.
Grunge tracks are characterized by heavily distorted guitar sounds, pounding drums, a dark overall tone, and introspective lyrics.
If you think of the American rock band Nirvana, you’ll get a good idea of what grunge music sounds like.
When people talk about grunge, overseas bands tend to get most of the spotlight, but there are bands in Japan that identify as grunge, as well as bands influenced by the genre!
In this article, we’ll take a broader view of grunge and introduce Japanese grunge bands.
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Japanese grunge bands. A roundup of bands influenced by grunge (11–20)
My songSyrup16g
Centered around guitarist-vocalist Igarashi, Syrup16g formed in 1996.
Although they disbanded once in 2008, they restarted in 2014.
Igarashi’s vocals—characterized by a languid tone and occasional screams that sound wrung from the chest—pair with roaring, shoegaze-style guitars that carry a grunge edge.
Their distinctively depressive melodies are another hook that makes you immediately think, “This is Syrup16g!” They’re less a band that leads you into the light and more one that stays by your side in the dark.
Good Luck / Beautiful LosersLOSTAGE
Formed in Nara Prefecture in 2001 around the Gomi brothers—Takehisa on bass and vocals and Takuto on guitar—the band has been actively performing live, mainly at venues across Japan.
Takehisa’s slightly nostalgic vocals pair perfectly with guitar tones that seem to distort the entire space, creating an addictive sound.
They have many tracks you’ll want to lie around and listen to all day in a dim room on an empty day off, making them perfect for anyone seeking a lighter grunge band that blends into everyday life.
Of course, they’re also recommended for fans of emo.
COLD HEATDETROITSEVEN
Formed in 2001 as detroit7 and renamed DETROITSEVEN in 2012, they’re a grunge band with a rare female vocalist in Japan.
Their sound retains the dark atmosphere of early grunge, making them a solid recommendation for die-hard grunge fans.
Vocalist Miyoko Yamaguchi’s singing—at times like softly murmured asides—will keep you company when you want to put on headphones, shut out the world, and sink into your own space.
Arabian danceTHE PREDATORS
THE PREDATORS is a star-studded rock band with Sawao Yamanaka from the pillows on guitar and vocals, JIRO from GLAY on bass, and Hirotaka Takahashi from ELLEGARDEN on drums.
In 2005, when they first formed, they created music with a conscious aim of being a “poppy Nirvana.” The track Mustang Hippie, included on their album Hunting!!!! released the same year, especially embodies that concept.
There are other songs that also give off that vibe, so give various tracks a listen.
LOADEDHOMMyo
HOMMヨ is an alternative band formed in Tokyo in 2005, consisting of three women.
When people hear “girls’ band,” many might imagine a poppy, glitzy vibe, but they strip away those elements and convey the core of a refined rock band.
The sluggish, deliberate drum feel, the heavy bass, and the distorted guitar tones create a dark atmosphere that should strongly appeal to grunge fans.
Layered over that is vocalist Niimari Ko’s airy voice, which shapes a singular, unmistakable world of their own.
Blood & Bonesa flood of circle
A four-piece band from Tokyo, a flood of circle.
Their appeal lies in a sound that evokes rock ’n’ roll and blues.
“Blood & Bones” is included on their self-titled 2018 album, “a flood of circle.” The distorted guitar tone is really cool.
Japanese grunge bands. A roundup of bands influenced by grunge (21–30)
Love myselfshe said
She said is a four-piece, mixed-gender band from Kyoto.
Each member brings their own background in ’90s alternative rock, weaving it together into an original sound.
Vocalist Ms.
Sago’s cute singing voice contrasts perfectly with the full-on grunge-flavored melodies—an irresistible combo.
Be sure to pay attention to the lyrics, which candidly portray struggles like loneliness and anxiety.
They’ve got a light-grunge vibe, so they’re a great recommendation for anyone just getting into grunge.