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 (21–30)
BELIEVERNorthern19
A three-piece rock band whose name was inspired by the members being from northern regions such as Hokuriku and Tohoku, and by the fact that they formed the band at age 19.
With high-speed beats characteristic of melodic hardcore and twin vocals and harmonies riding on top, they whip audiences into a frenzy.
In 2016, they also launched an energetic initiative called “Every 19th is Northern Day,” performing live shows regularly—no doubt many listeners draw power from their vibrant style.
They’re highly recommended for anyone looking to get into melodic hardcore—definitely a band you should go see live.
BackwardKUZIRA
KUZIRA, who have even been tapped as J-WAVE personalities, are a hotly watched act among the new generation of melodic hardcore bands.
Their crisp, aggressive guitar sound is strikingly memorable.
With songs that leverage a melodic sensibility that feels somehow nostalgic, even listeners unfamiliar with their catalog will feel their hearts start to dance after just one listen.
A must-check band for fans of melodic hardcore.
Fast and cool! Popular domestic melodic hardcore punk bands (31–40)
MoonrakerENTH
ENTH is a three-piece rock band from Nagoya.
Signed to TRUST RECORDS, a label known for producing numerous melodic hardcore bands, they’ve been appearing at festivals across the country more and more in recent years.
The biggest appeal of a band that continues to win support from rock kids nationwide is surely the melodious and emotional singing voice of their bassist and vocalist, daipon.
They’ve also got that quintessential melocore sense of speed, and any rock kid is guaranteed to love them.
The Dream Is Not Deaddizzy sunfist
If you’re looking for a female‑fronted melodic hardcore (melodic punk) band, you’ve got to check out Dizzy Sunfist! Their songs deliver that quintessential melocore speed and exhilaration, with guitarist-vocalist Ayapeta’s husky female vocals ringing out on top.
Along with singing predominantly English lyrics over catchy, approachable melodies, their crisp, overdriven guitar riffs feel great too.
They’re a must-watch melocore band that looks set to broaden their horizons even more from here!
Dear my songsOVER ARM THROW
OVER ARM THROW is a three-piece melodic hardcore band formed in Yokohama.
They’re passionately supported by live-music kids of all ages, and you’ve probably seen T-shirts with “OAT” at shows! Their biggest draw is, without a doubt, the emotionally charged melodies that pierce straight to the heart.
Every song carries a nostalgia that makes you want to listen again, and even first-time listeners are sure to be instantly captivated.
You’ll also be moved by the bittersweet vocals of guitarist and singer Shinya Kikuchi.
MantisINKYMAP
A four-piece rock band formed in Hachioji, Tokyo—a city that has produced many loud rock acts—actively performing with a live-show focus.
Their trademark is an aggressive sound born from the fusion of catchy melodies—woven with an unforgettable, distinctive singing voice—and a rich, full-band ensemble.
Their melodic hardcore, charged with powerful and positive messages, has a charm that both lifts the audience’s spirits and brings smiles to their faces.
An emotional melodic hardcore band you’ll want to keep an eye on as a live act going forward.
movementSpecialThanks
They are a pop-punk band formed in Aichi Prefecture in 2005.
Armed with a fast-paced, melodic sound, they’ve been actively performing and releasing music.
In 2008, they released the mini-album “SEVEN COLORS.” In 2014, they drew attention by performing the opening theme for the anime “Wolf Girl & Black Prince.” Their catchy musical style is a major draw.
If you’re looking for a female-vocal melodic hardcore band, be sure to check them out!