Japanese metalcore bands. A roundup of J-metalcore bands that have undergone unique evolution.
Japanese bands like Crossfaith and coldrain have earned high praise overseas.
The genre they represent—metalcore—combines elements of metal and hardcore: chugging guitar riffs, breakdowns, shouted vocals, and death growls.
Bands creatively blend a variety of elements, such as djent-influenced technical guitar phrases, colorful synth-driven sounds, and beautifully melodic choruses.
Be sure to check out Japan’s distinctive and diverse metalcore bands!
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- Masterpieces and popular songs by Crossfaith
- Masterpieces and popular songs by coldrain
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A Japanese metalcore band. A roundup of Japanese metalcore bands that have undergone unique evolution (1–10)
Alone//Ditea crowd of rebellion
A band that stands out in Japan’s metalcore scene with an emotional, screamo-driven sound is a crowd of rebellion.
Hailing from Niigata, their defining feature is their contrasting twin vocals.
Rare for the genre, the juxtaposition of a clear, soaring high-tone vocal and a powerful scream vocal that at times even takes on a rap-like quality strengthens the dynamic ebb and flow of their songs.
ScarfaceEACH OF THE DAYS
EACH OF THE DAYS is a metalcore band formed in Nagoya in 2007.
Brought together at the invitation of vocalist Norio, they began performing with a distinctive six-member lineup that includes a female drummer and a percussionist.
In 2009, they drew major attention when their demo track was selected for the soundtrack of the worldwide horror film SAW VI.
In 2011, they released the album Sweet Carrion.
Their appeal lies in a technical sound that blends intensity with lyricism.
They’re a must-listen for anyone seeking a band that can stand shoulder to shoulder with overseas heavy music acts.
TriggerBreathe my Words
As a metalcore band hailing from Kobe, Breathe my Words left a striking mark on the scene.
Formed in 2015, they specialized in a heavy yet technical sound centered on aggressive guitar riffs.
They kicked off their activities with the KING EP released the same year, and in 2017 unveiled the classic TRIGGER.
However, in March 2018—just after receiving high acclaim—they went on an indefinite hiatus.
If you’re drawn to the raw energy of youthful impulse and the brutal sound rooted in deathcore, you’re sure to be hooked.
Japanese metalcore bands. A roundup of uniquely evolved Japanese metalcore bands (11–20)
FUHAIKnosis
This is an experimental project launched in 2022, centered around former Crystal Lake vocalist Ryo Kinoshita and Survive Said The Prophet’s Yosh.
Knosis describes itself as “something other than a band,” delivering a chaotic sound rooted in metalcore that absorbs deathcore, EDM, and even rap.
They began activities in 2023 with the EP “The Shattering,” and their first full-length album, “GENKNOSIS,” is set for release in August 2025.
Their raw, unpredictable songs are sure to grip listeners who find conventional metalcore lacking.
DESPERATENOCTURNAL BLOODLUST
Formed in Tokyo in 2009, NOCTURNAL BLOODLUST is a band rooted in metalcore and deathcore, known for its unique style that fuses the aesthetic sensibilities of the visual kei scene.
They launched full-scale activities in 2011 with a two-part single and went on to produce works such as the album “THE OMNIGOD.” A key attraction is their varied approach from release to release, even incorporating elements of nu metal and jazz.
In 2016, they embarked on a European tour and earned international acclaim.
Immerse yourself in their technical performances and beautiful melodies that shine amid their intense sound.
custom; convention; old-fashioned practiceDEVILOOF
DEVILOOF captivates with a style that fuses the aesthetics of visual kei with overseas deathcore.
Formed in Osaka in 2015, the band consists of four members: vocalist Keisuke, guitarist/vocalist Ray, bassist Taiki, and drummer Kanta.
While incorporating extreme metal elements such as slamming and brutal death metal, they craft songs with a strong sense of structure and beauty.
Their 2021 album Dystopia topped international metal charts, showcasing their global impact.
Actor Tadanobu Asano being a fan and appearing in their music video Inshū is another testament to their influence.
Known as “Japan’s most ferocious visual kei,” their sound is one you should definitely experience.
HAZEFalling Asleep
Falling Asleep is a band known for its DIY style, with Hiroki at the center handling almost all aspects of production.
Based in Tokyo, the band has been highly active in the studio: after releasing the album “HEAVEN’S WHERE OUR SOULS BELONG” in 2023, they followed up with “DIE OR RIDE” in 2024.
While their sound is rooted in edgy rock, they boldly incorporate elements of electro and J-pop, placing them beyond the conventional framework of metalcore.
They’re sure to captivate listeners in search of a new musical experience!