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. Recommended popular songs (1–10)
Black-robed celestial maidenOnmyoza
Onmyo-za, known for their heavy metal inspired by Japanese legends and yokai, have captivated many fans with their unique worldview since their formation in 1999.
Released in 2007, this work is a melancholic track themed around love, destruction, and human conflict.
Featuring weighty guitar riffs and grand melodies, it fully showcases Onmyo-za’s signature style.
It was also chosen as the ending theme for TV Asahi’s “Adrena! Garage,” bringing it to a wider audience.
Highly recommended for those who want to immerse themselves in a distinctive world where Japanese tradition and modern heavy metal merge.
Raitei (Thunderbolt)NEMOPHILA
The girls’ heavy metal band NEMOPHILA is known for a sound that combines intensity and beauty.
The energetic guitar riffs and powerful vocals weave a sonic world that grips listeners and won’t let go.
The lyrics, infused with messages of struggle and hope, give you the courage to face adversity.
Released in August 2020, this track is included on their first album, REVIVE.
It’s the perfect number for when you want to immerse yourself in fierce metal sound or fire yourself up.
Experience this track packed with NEMOPHILA’s appeal for yourself.
Excuse me, I’ll be leaving first.hanabie
Hanabie., a hybrid girls’ band whose every move is unmissable—including their appearance at one of the Netherlands’ largest metal festivals, Dynamo Metalfest 2023.
Released in January 2023, this track features a catchy blend of Japanese-influenced ensemble work and melodies that are cool yet cute.
The lyrics, which express a desire to escape the pressures of modern society, are likely to resonate with many listeners.
With sound production by Yuyuyuppe and a spoken-word cameo by voice actress Aki Toyosaki, the star-studded lineup is another draw.
It’s a powerful song you’ll want to play when you’re worn out by busy days.
ThrillBAND-MAID
With its fierce guitar riffs and powerful vocals, this track is known as one of BAND-MAID’s signature songs.
Included as the B-side to their debut single “Matador of Love and Passion,” it became a number that drew international attention to the band.
It’s a song that fully showcases their musicality, whose charm lies in the striking contrast with their maid outfits.
The lyrics, themed around self-expression and freedom, emphasize a stance of seeking new possibilities in everyday life.
Packed with a blazing message calling for liberation from preconceptions and constraints, this work is sure to resonate deeply with listeners.
Brimming with BAND-MAID’s appeal, this track is highly recommended for anyone craving energetic music.
guidanceNoGoD
The song NoGoD released in February 2009 is a track included on the album Gokusai-shiki (Extremely Colorful).
Blending powerful guitar riffs, dynamic rhythms, and vocalist Dancho’s charismatic delivery, the track is distinguished by its energetic rock sound.
Its diverse musicality—going beyond the confines of visual kei rock—has become a compelling appeal that keeps fans hooked.
It’s also featured on the compilation album INDIES BEST SELECTION 2005-2009, which could be called the culmination of their indie era, making it an indispensable song in the band’s history.
Coupled with lyrics rich in moving messages, it’s a recommended number for anyone seeking a jolt of excitement in their everyday life.
Japanese rice is the best in the world.Uchikubi Gokumon Doukoukai
A song by Uchu-Kudaku Gokumon Doukoukai that powerfully belts out Japan’s love for rice.
Its appeal lies in the contrast between the heavy sound of a 7-string guitar and a 5-string bass, and the humorous lyrics rooted in everyday life.
Released in 2015, the track helped grow their farmer fanbase and has become one of the band’s signature songs.
It’s perfect for getting everyone hyped at karaoke—an experience of “everyday-life loud rock” that any Japanese person can relate to.
Give it a try!
sweet tenptationAldious
A five-member group that established the “jō-metal” genre in Japan.
Their heavy sound, a stark contrast to their appearance, is overwhelming.
You think the medium-tempo, slightly dark mood will continue with eerie allure… only for a sudden twist as the chorus surges with excitement.
It’s a dramatic song with a clear sense of introduction, development, turn, and conclusion.