A masterpiece of Japanese rock. Recommended albums you should listen to at least once.
In recent years, with the spread of subscription services, we have fewer opportunities to listen to music through complete albums compared to the past.
It’s often said that albums are filled with an artist’s intentions and feelings—from the track order to the musical tone—and what they wanted to express at that particular moment.
So this time, we’re introducing albums that are considered classics of Japanese rock.
We’ve picked selections ranging from artists everyone knows to those with devoted core fans, spanning multiple generations.
We hope this gives you a reason to revisit old favorites or discover new artists.
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Masterpieces of Japanese rock. Must-listen recommended albums (1–10)
honeysupittsu
An album every rock fan knows: Honey.
The songs crafted by Masamune Kusano and the four members of Spitz gently embrace the listener’s heart.
The crystalline guitar sound and uniquely evocative lyrics leave a strong impression, revealing something new with every listen.
Released in September 1995, this sixth album also includes the massive hit Robinson.
It’s packed with breezy tracks perfect for a drive—music that makes you want to listen while feeling a pleasant wind.
Highly recommended for those who want to revisit their youth or savor high-quality Japanese rock.
SICKSTHE YELLOW MONKEY
A quintessential work by THE YELLOW MONKEY, a band that has led Japan’s rock scene, is their sixth album “SICKS,” released in January 1997.
Topping the Oricon charts, the album features a diverse array of tracks that blend elements of hard rock and glam rock.
With Kazuya Yoshii’s distinctive vocals, highly message-driven lyrics, and the band’s exceptional musicianship in perfect harmony, this is a must-listen not only for rock fans.
Including standout tracks like “Rakuen,” it’s packed with compelling songs, making it especially recommended for anyone looking to rediscover The Yellow Monkey’s music.
THE POWER SOURCEJUDY AND MARY
JUDY AND MARY’s fourth album, THE POWER SOURCE, is a masterpiece that revolutionized the music scene of the ’90s.
After its release in March 1997, it reached No.
1 on the Oricon weekly album chart and achieved an astonishing 2.8 million sales.
The sound woven from YUKI’s striking vocals and TAKUYA’s catchy guitar hooks grabs listeners’ hearts and won’t let go.
The track “Sobakasu” was used as the opening theme for the anime Rurouni Kenshin and became a massive hit.
It’s a nostalgic yet powerful album you’ll want to listen to alongside memories of your youth.
Classic J-Rock Masterpieces: Must-Listen Albums (11–20)
BRING YOUR BOARD!!ELLEGARDEN
This is ELLEGARDEN’s second album, released in July 2003.
It became their first work to enter the top 100 on Japan’s Oricon album chart.
It features many enduring fan favorites, including Jitterbug, Venus, and No.13.
Its positive, energetic vibe grabs listeners and never lets go.
It’s an album we highly recommend even to younger listeners who may only know their 2022 release, The End of Yesterday.
Wind City Romanhappiiendo
Happy End, the legendary band that revolutionized Japan’s rock scene.
Their masterpiece Kazemachi Roman is an innovative work released in 1971.
The band’s signature song Kaze wo Atsumete is also included on this album, and many of you may recognize the cover featuring illustrations of the members’ faces.
This timeless classic has been beloved for years and is recommended not only for rock fans but also for anyone interested in Japanese music culture.
BEAT EMOTIONBOØWY
BOØWY dominated Japan’s rock scene in the 1980s.
Their 1986 album BEAT EMOTION debuted at No.
1 on the Oricon chart.
With Kyosuke Himuro’s alluring vocals and Tomoyasu Hotei’s technical guitar weaving a thrilling, exhilarating sound, it’s sure to resonate across generations.
It’s a must-listen not only for rock fans but also for anyone interested in ’80s music.
As a timeless classic still beloved by many, this masterpiece is well worth revisiting.
MOTHERLUNA SEA
Released in October 1994 and peaking at No.
2 on the Oricon chart, MOTHER was certified Platinum and remains one of LUNA SEA’s most beloved albums.
From signature tracks like ROSIER and LOVELESS onward, it features a rich variety in tone, sound, and lyrical themes.
It’s a work that showcases the breadth of LUNA SEA’s artistry, making it especially recommended for those who haven’t yet explored their music.