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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Masterpieces of Japanese metal music. Recommended popular songs (71–80)
kaedit nos pestisSIGH
An avant-garde metal band that has repeatedly changed its musical style.
Their sound is so complex and enigmatic that it defies the boundaries of metal.
The whirlwind-like shifts in their song structures grow more impressive the more you listen.
They began performing overseas quite early and earned recognition there.
Their saxophonist, Dr.
Mikannibal, has an unusual background as a PhD holder and researcher from the University of Tokyo.
LONERSLY
SLY is a band formed by members from groups like LOUDNESS and EARTHSHAKER.
“LONER” is included on their second album, “DREAMS OF DUST,” released in 1995.
Its lively, Latin music-like rhythm really sticks in your ears.
kingdom comeSLY
A band formed mainly by Minoru Niihara and Munetaka Higuchi, who had temporarily left LOUDNESS.
While keeping the same musical style, the album maintains a high level of tension throughout, resulting in a heavy and serious atmosphere.
“kingdom come” is a speed tune where the rough guitar and the weight of the bass and drums feel great.
Classic J-metal masterpieces. Recommended popular songs (81–90)
The Return of Heavy MetalTHE Crown
The solo project of Tetsuya Kanmuri, known as the man behind Krauser from the film Detroit Metal City.
The lineup isn’t fixed, and different members may be brought in for each live show.
His out-of-this-world shouts—earning him comparisons to a Japanese Rob Halford—are a must-hear.
This track, often used as the opening tune at concerts, is guaranteed to get the crowd fired up.
fight fear killUNITED
A long-established thrash metal band representing Japan.
Their consistently fast, high-energy songwriting and gritty, heavy sound are the band’s biggest hallmarks.
This track also kicks off at high speed, but the tempo shifts dramatically throughout, keeping listeners engaged.
A must-listen for fans of thrash.
aristocrat’s symphonyVersailles
A band formed by KAMIJO, who used to be a roadie for MALICE MIZER.
Like MALICE MIZER, they pursue a meticulous visual concept, recreating the image of 18th-century France.
The music is speed symphonic metal, and the fast twin-guitar harmonies feel great.
Premeditated revengeMakishimamu Za Horumon
It’s a song packed with comedy, momentum, and sheer coolness.
It’s one of the signature tracks by the four-piece band Maximum the Hormone.
It’s included as the first track on their 2013 album “Yoshu Fukushu.” For the younger generation, they might just be the face of metal.