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 (51–60)
1999FOR A REASON
FOR A REASON says they started out aiming to be a band that could bridge melodic and hardcore.
With a five-piece lineup—lead vocalist, two guitars, bass, and drums—their stance clearly connects to the loud hardcore scene.
They also switch between growls and clean vocals, deftly control the groove of their songs, and keep listeners fully entertained.
PRIVATE BEACHSandy Beach Surf Coaster
A four-piece rock band that, despite announcing a hiatus from live performances in 2012, has continued to operate at its own pace based in their hometown of Aichi Prefecture.
While their classic melodic hardcore sound blends pop melodies with a sense of speed in the ensemble, the female vocals add a subtly sentimental listening experience.
Their music exudes the freedom unique to indie bands—the ease that comes from being unconstrained and the broadened perspective gained from stepping away from the conventional band grind.
You can feel that they’re purely enjoying making music; they’re a melodic hardcore band you’ll want to hear precisely in these harsh, modern times.
SundayPOT
POT, a four-piece band from Osaka, is a really compelling group with lively songs that evoke sunny West Coast pop-punk.
True to their motto of “pop, catchy, and happy,” their exhilarating tracks are their greatest weapon, making you feel more and more joyful as you listen.
Another hallmark of the band is that three members—guitarists Oda and Yoshi, and bassist Yoppy—take turns as the lead vocalist.
Enjoy the depth of their songs, each shaded by the distinct voices of the three.
BLACK FLYSNICOTINE
NICOTINE is a band formed in 1993.
In their early days, they mainly created grunge rock songs, but after being influenced by the overseas melodic scene, they began delivering music rooted in melodic hardcore and punk.
Their melodious English lyrics, carried by fast-paced band performances, create a satisfying groove.
They are also a band that has made waves across borders, including a U.S.-wide release on the American punk label ASIAN MAN RECORDS.
Fast and cool! Popular domestic melodic hardcore bands (61–70)
IsanaEVERLONG
When you think of melodic hardcore, you might picture fast songs with English lyrics, aggressive riffs, and a driving groove—but EVERLONG is a little different! First to catch your ear are the Japanese lyrics, spun with the refreshing singing voice of vocalist Yu-ta.
Their warm, gentle songs are truly captivating.
At the same time, the guitar riffs and drum phrases woven in at key moments firmly deliver that melodic hardcore feel.
CROSS THE SKYEGG BRAIN
A three-piece rock band that announced an indefinite hiatus in 2015 but reignited fan excitement with their comeback.
Frontman JOEY, a Japanese–American, delivers emotional vocals, complemented by a commanding bassline and a tight beat from a highly skilled drummer who also plays in other bands.
Together, their distinct personalities and techniques forge an exhilarating punk sound.
Despite the simple, tight arrangements, the rich, full-bodied sound makes you forget they’re only a trio—some listeners might even be reminded of Western rock.
A cool melodic hardcore band whose future activities are highly anticipated.
WHAT’S BORDERLESS?SUPER STUPID
SUPER STUPID is a three-piece rock band formed in 1994.
Despite their short activity period from 1994 to 1999, they had a significant impact on Japan’s melodic hardcore scene.
The band was formed around Masayuki Ichikawa (who performs under the name LOW IQ 01) and Jackie Otaka.
Their 1998 album “DON’T FORGET OUR YOUTH,” though released independently, garnered major attention.
They also explored new possibilities in melodic hardcore by incorporating Indian music and extensive sampling into their tracks.