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 (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.
KNOW KNOW KNOWDOES
DOES evokes a hint of traditional Japanese flavor within their distorted guitar sound.
The simple song structure is really cool.
The track in the video was released in 2016 as their 15th single.
It was used as the opening theme for the anime Gintama.
Tsukino Arikagarakuta robotto
This song has a cool, almost shouted vocal style.
It’s by Garakuta Robot, a three-piece rock band from Hyogo Prefecture.
The catchy melody really hits you in the heart.
It’s the lead track from their 2018 album “Tsuki no Arika.”
I Love You And Kiss MeTHE TEENAGE KISSERS
This song captivates with its sweet vocals and lo-fi sound.
It’s a track by THE TEENAGE KISSERS, a four-piece rock band formed in 2012.
It’s included on their 2014 album, VIRGIN FIELD.
The piercing guitar tones are really cool.
sea101A
This track, with vocalist noah’s otherworldly voice that lingers in your ears, is a song by the three-piece band 101A.
It was released as a single in 2015.
They’re a band known for a captivating sound packed tightly with elements of grunge, shoegaze, and alternative rock.