Fast and cool! A popular melodic hardcore band in Japan
Melocore is short for “melodic hardcore,” a music genre that emphasizes hardcore punk sounds and strong melodies.
When you hear “melocore bands,” how many can you think of? If you’re thinking, “I want to learn more about melocore!” you might have come to the right article.
Here, we’ll introduce a wide range of Japanese melocore bands all at once—from groups performing at major festivals across the country and thriving at the forefront, to next-break acts working energetically at their local live houses.
Even though we lump them together as melocore, there’s a blend of diverse musical traits, so be sure to pay attention to each band’s unique character!
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Fast and cool! Popular domestic melodic hardcore bands (71–80)
Puffin39degrees
39degrees, a band based in Machida, Tokyo.
They formed the band with classmates and have been climbing the melodic hardcore scene step by step, like a textbook example of youth—building their name from local events.
As they themselves say, there are parts of their sound that overlap with 10-FEET.
But the hallmark of Japanese punk is, above all, its kindness and encouragement.
People talk about “youth punk,” but punk has always contained the essence of youth, you know.
BE ALRIGHTSHIMA
A four-piece rock band formed mainly by members who met in their university light music club, based in Kitakyushu, Fukuoka Prefecture.
Their catchy melodies influenced by ’90s music and the high-energy, melodic hardcore beats featuring driving guitar riffs really get your adrenaline pumping.
Even elements like death growls that appear within their pop-leaning songs showcase arrangements that reflect the band’s unwavering musical identity and fire up the audience.
With addictive, standout lyrics as well, they’re a classic yet modern melodic hardcore band.
Sink Or SwimCastaway
This track appears as the first song on Castaway’s second EP, a band active out of Tokyo.
In their subsequent works, the emphasis shifts further toward vocals, moving in a deeper, more mature direction.
This song and the EP as a whole—capturing the band’s early intensity while hinting at their future trajectory—are essential listening.
Fast and cool! Popular domestic melodic hardcore bands (81–90)
DANCE LIKE NO TOMORROWSECRET 7 LINE
SECRET 7 LINE is a rock band formed in 1998.
They have an extensive range of activities, not only in Japan but also performing at major rock festivals in China.
Delivering a sound that represents Japan’s melodic hardcore scene, their hallmark is RYO’s emotional vocals layered over a heavy, full-band performance.
Their melodic yet passionate sound conveys a refreshing feel and a sense of speed.
In addition, through their own THICK FESTIVAL—where they bring together bands active in Japan’s punk and melodic hardcore scenes—they play a key role in energizing the country’s melodic scene.
i want yaASPARAGUS
ASPARAGUS, formed in Yokohama in 2002, are known for exhilarating, fast-paced songs rooted in punk.
But that’s only part of their appeal—the real point is their distinctive sound that blends elements of pop, rock, and indie.
Tracks like “MEND OUR MINDS” brought them attention, leading to appearances at major festivals such as FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL and ROCK IN JAPAN FESTIVAL.
They’ve also performed overseas, making them a band that’s truly active on the front lines.
Their unique music videos are highly regarded as well, offering visual enjoyment as another draw.
Highly recommended for anyone looking to soothe their heart with energetic music!
ScenarioSABOTEN
A three-piece rock band so popular that anyone who likes punk will know their name, they whip up crowds nationwide with relentlessly energetic live shows.
In a melodic hardcore scene dominated by English lyrics, their commitment to Japanese lyrics makes their music easy to embrace even for newcomers to the genre.
Their bright, positive sound, combined with the breakneck drive characteristic of melocore, has the power to lift listeners’ spirits.
With messages and sound that move you in equal measure, they’re a melocore band you should experience live at least once.
WordsSHIT HAPPENING
SHIT HAPPENING, a four-piece melodic hardcore band from Tochigi Prefecture, burst into the spotlight in 2009 by winning the Grand Prix at Senkou Riot out of 5,500 groups.
Their music is marked by fiercely powerful yet beautiful melodies and lyrics that strike a chord.
In 2015, they released the album “Landmark,” continuing to captivate fans.
In 2018, they put out “Stargazer” and celebrated a successful 10th-anniversary tour.
Though they sadly disbanded in June 2019, their passionate energy still lives on in the hearts of many fans.
Highly recommended not only for melodic hardcore fans but also for anyone who wants to be moved by emotional vocals and intense performances.