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 (81–90)
MUGEN UCHUSeptaluck
It’s included on their newly announced second full-length album, featuring Kazuki—formerly of YOUR LAST DIARY—as a new member.
From the lead melody to the rich choral work, the sound, backed by the members’ careers, is remarkably refined.
Beyond the nightSHE’ll SLEEP
SHE’ll SLEEP is stirring up a fresh breeze in the melodic hardcore scene.
Formed in 2018 in Matsumoto, Nagano, the trio of Yuu, Tatsumi, and Sota command their instruments to deliver powerful, high-impact performances.
Shortly after their debut, they released “See The Light,” whose dynamic yet ear-pleasing melodies captured listeners’ hearts and quickly drew attention.
Their signature track, “AWAKE,” stands out for its overwhelming energy and striking melodies.
The song sparked major reactions not only at live shows but also across social media, propelling the band’s rise.
Their sound embraces darkness while carrying a message of seeking hope, resonating deeply with many fans.
Ready for the next thrill? Head out to a live show and experience it for yourself!
sirenUnblock
Unblock is a three-piece band based in Neyagawa, Osaka.
With a string of releases, they’ve been touring energetically.
Their melodious songs are anchored by vocalist Taguchi’s distinctive, thick, powerful voice and a guitar-rock-leaning sound that’s evolved into greater technicality.
The raw, bare-your-soul lyrics hit straight to the heart, and some listeners may find them overlapping with their own circumstances.
Even for those already familiar with melodic hardcore, this is a band brimming with originality that we highly recommend revisiting.
TOO CLOSE TO SEETNX
TNX is a fast melodic punk band from Ibaraki Prefecture.
Formed in 2003, the band has captivated many fans with high-speed songs under their motto: “FAST! SHORT! SIMPLE! and FRUMPY!” Their lively, rambunctious energy is just as strong in their live performances.
In particular, check out their split album with VDX and their first full-length, “THE FELLOWSHIP OF THE BAND.” These releases have earned high praise and are must-listens for melodic hardcore fans.
TNX’s music is defined by tight, breakneck-speed sounds.
Rooted in hardcore punk yet focused on melody, their songs are perfect for anyone who loves punk rock.
HOPEBiSKET
This is BiSKET, a band based mainly in Osaka.
Their ultra-fast, pounding beats are insanely exciting and feel amazing.
If you’re into heavily distorted, hard-edged sounds, you definitely need to give them a listen.
Even just their melody lines are packed with the kinds of twists melodic-core fans love, guaranteed to get your energy up! By diving into BiSKET’s music, you can confront “melodic hardcore” head-on.
Attitude makes styleLABRET
LABRET is a three-piece melodic hardcore band from Kyoto.
The bass-vocalist TOKU, known for his distinctive voice, and the guitarist Aru, whose aggressive playing is a major draw, are actually brothers.
Supporting the duo is drummer NAOKI; the exquisite balance among the three, each highlighting the others, is LABRET’s hallmark.
Their intense sound and tight beats, paired with a wistful melodic line that lingers after a single listen, stir up powerful emotions.
If you’re looking for an undeniably cool band, we recommend LABRET!
Fast and cool! Popular domestic melodic hardcore bands (91–100)
HerculesNonfiction Cartoons
A new breeze from Osaka, Nonfiction Cartoons are a standout act electrifying the melodic hardcore scene.
Tracing back to 2018, the band began with three members: Mr.
Yagi, Mr.
Ishiguro, and Mr.
Matsubara.
Their explosive energy—dubbed “melodic challenge punk”—has rapidly grown their fanbase, especially across the Kansai live house circuit.
Notably, “Forward,” included on their release LAST DEMO, is a gripping track driven by a high‑intensity two-beat that feels effortlessly tight.
Another highlight, “Tsuzukanai Yoru o” (“The Night That Won’t Last”), radiates a passion that feels like the culmination of their work so far.
Beyond their fiery performances, their live show at Shinkagura left the crowd in awe.
Brimming with dynamism, Nonfiction Cartoons’ melodic hardcore sound makes them a true next-generation frontrunner in Japan’s scene!