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 songs. Recommended popular tracks (51–60)
MA-G-MAAION
AION is a heavy metal band from Osaka Prefecture.
Their popularity at the time was such that people said, “X in the East, AION in the West.” “MA-G-MA” is included on the mini-album of the same name released in 1990.
The energetic sound is wonderful.
AineAION
AION had the skill and popularity to be spoken of alongside X in the east and AION in the west.
As you can tell from the fact that the song shares the band’s name, it’s their signature track—a high-speed metal tune bursting with a sense of drive.
NOV, whose vocals are distinctive, is compelling for his strong singing ability: despite a dirty edge, he delivers powerfully from low to high registers.
LAST STARDUSTBLOOD STAIN CHILD
BLOOD STAIN CHILD, whose musical style—combining metal music with electronic sounds—has received high acclaim.
“LAST STARDUST” is their major-label debut single, released in 2014.
Their raw impulse is tightly packed within its intensity.
freedomBLOOD STAIN CHILD
A band with a one-of-a-kind musical vision that fuses electro and heavy metal.
As they call themselves “trance metal,” their upbeat, heavy sound rides on melody lines leaning toward melodic death metal, making it a very satisfying listen.
Classic Japanese metal tracks. Recommended popular songs (61–70)
StatementBORIS
From their broad musicality, BORIS is a band whose diverse musical roots—not just metal—come into view.
“Statement” was released as a single in 2008.
The noisy guitar solo is stirring.
Their unpretentious charm shines through.
Don’t Leave Me NowBOWWOW
This song, with its pleasing high-tone vocals, is by the band BOWWOW, which debuted in 1976.
It’s included on their 1987 album “V.” The dramatic synthesizer phrases are really electrifying.
survivor666CYCLE
A band formed by three former members of Sex Machineguns.
Their songs are built around instrumental sections, letting you enjoy highly advanced, technical playing.
This track features a speedy sound with sticky, gritty vocals weaving through it.
Panther’s rapid-fire shredding in the mid-song guitar solo is a must-hear.