Classic Japanese metal songs. Recommended popular tracks.
When you hear the word “metal,” what kind of image comes to mind?
If you don’t usually listen to it, you might think it’s “noisy” or “scary,” and maybe even feel that it’s “hard to listen to.”
Of course, metal does have those aspects in its musical style and themes—but that’s not all there is to it.
From beautifully composed songs with clear classical influences to tracks with comedic lyrics, there’s a wide variety of music, especially in Japan.
So this time, we’d like to introduce some classic masterpieces of Japanese metal!
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Classic Japanese metal tracks. Recommended popular songs (61–70)
destroyGARGOYLE
A veteran thrash band known for their outlandish costumes and cohesive concept.
This track, “destroy,” is a high-speed tune that showcases GARGOYLE’s signature style.
The repeated chants of “destroy” in the chorus are sure to fire up the crowd at shows.
KIBA’s persona and raspy growl give him a one-of-a-kind presence even within the Japanese metal scene.
the bloodthirsty princeGYZE
A three-piece melodic death metal band that is active not only in Japan but also overseas.
“the bloodthirsty prince” features intensely sorrowful melodies reminiscent of CHILDREN OF BODOM, and its melodic lines are exceptionally beautiful.
They are already signed to a major label, and even greater success is expected from them in the future.
The One To BreakHead Phones President
This track features a catchy four-on-the-floor rhythm, a heavy, weighty guitar tone, and the clear, transparent vocals of ANZA.
It’s included on the Tokyo-born band HEAD PHONES PRESIDENT’s 2014 album “Disillusion.” A dynamic, melodic metal number.
N.W.OKELLY SIMONZ’S BLIND FAITH
A band led by the legendary guitar demon Kelly SIMONZ, famed for the “Super Guitarist Training Gips” series.
This track, N.W.O, is a high-speed tune that shows clear influences from Ritchie Blackmore and Yngwie Malmsteen.
The rapid-fire shredding is incredible, but what really stands out is the stability of the vibrato and bending.
As expected, top-notch.
ROAD RACERLOUDNESS
LOUDNESS, also known for being the first Japanese artists to perform on the stage of Madison Square Garden, released “ROAD RACER” as their third single in 1983.
It teaches the importance of following the path you believe in.
S.D.ILOUDNESS
LOUDNESS, formed around Akira Takasaki and Munetaka Higuchi after leaving Lazy, has been active on the world stage since the 1980s, still boasts a large fan base, and regularly performs overseas.
Their speed tune S.D.I.
stands out with the powerful drums featuring a single large-diameter bass drum and a memorable verse section played with tapping (right-hand technique).
Flower of WisdomMINSTRELIX
A melodic speed metal band formed by guitarist TAKAO.
Their beautiful melodies reflect the influence of their past activities in the visual-kei scene.
The guitar work is top-tier and highly acclaimed.
This track is a fast, technical tune that epitomizes MINSTRELIX.
The keyboard and guitar battle in the middle is a must-hear.