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 (1–10)
1994w.o.d.
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is a new-generation alternative band from Kobe.
Their name stands for “webbing off duckling,” which supposedly means a duck that can’t swim.
Their sound, which recalls grunge forefathers NIRVANA, feels fresh and reborn in the Reiwa era, and Saito’s raspy vocals—almost as if Kurt Cobain were channeling through him—are irresistible for grunge fans! Truly, in every sense, they’re a band I recommend to anyone looking for a “Japanese grunge band.”
Vanillamoll
Moll is a three-piece band that operates under the motto “Climax from the start.” They adopted their current lineup in 2018 and have been active ever since.
With husky vocals and a uniquely dark atmosphere, they’re a band that exudes grunge—so much so that it’s hard not to think of those three iconic figures in the genre as their backbone.
What truly stands out, though, is their intensity.
If you’re someone who wants to unleash pent-up anger and frustration, I highly recommend catching them live!
The End of the WorldTHEE MICHELLE GUN ELEPHANT
Despite their brief stint in the major scene from 1996 to 2003, this four-piece rock band etched an overwhelming presence into J-pop.
Built on a foundation of punk, pub rock, and garage rock, their alternative sound was rare in the J-pop scene at the time.
Their grunge-tinged musicality—highlighted by vocalist Yusuke Chiba’s powerful shouts and guitarist Futoshi Abe’s superhuman high-speed chopping—won strong support.
Incorporating elements of blues and rockabilly, their music also possessed a distinctive accessibility beyond just intense rock, and they are known for having exerted a major influence on numerous rock bands.
Youth KnifeNITRODAY
NITRODAY is a rock band formed in March 2016.
When they formed, all the members were still in high school, and they drew attention for delivering an authentic grunge sound at such a young age.
From songs that directly inherit the lineage of 1990s grunge to tracks freshly reimagined with their own sensibilities, this up-and-coming four-piece has made it all their own.
They’re poised to lead the next wave of Japan’s grunge scene.
Be sure to check them out now!
Buddha-destroying Trishnahachijuu hakkasho junrei
Eighty-Eight Pilgrimage, who call themselves “rock music you can’t imagine with a little effort” and “a fringe of bubbly prog,” are a band whose very name packs a punch.
Their songs are laced with a religious worldview throughout, and it’s certainly not the kind of rock you can picture with just a bit of imagination.
The shiver-inducing basslines, addictive guitar riffs, and pounding drumming are exhilarating to listen to.
The distinctive vocals that match their lyrical world are also seriously habit-forming.
Highly recommended for anyone who wants to dive deep into a band’s unique universe!
Dreaming Of YouART-SCHOOL
Formed in 2000 around guitarist-vocalist Mr.
Kinoshita, who was then active as a solo singer.
They are a Japanese grunge band that cloaks itself in a heavy, dark atmosphere, setting to lyrics the whirlpool of emotions that surge within.
Depending on the song, the occasional beautiful guitar tone adds a sense of fragility.
Whether in Western music or Japanese bands, there are times when listening to darker songs calms the heart, right? You can feel that especially strongly in ART-SCHOOL’s tracks.
It’s probably because Kinoshita’s vocals, which carry a hint of darkness, somehow free what’s inside my heart.
How gasoline sloshesBlanky Jet City
Blankey Jet City is the band that laid the groundwork for grunge’s expansion into Japan.
Formed in 1987 around Kenichi “Benji” Asai, they disbanded in 2000, yet their name is still frequently heard—a truly legendary band.
From rockabilly to grunge, their ever-evolving sound captivated many listeners.
Even if you haven’t explored Blankey Jet City’s music yet, give them a listen as you dig into Japanese grunge!