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: Recommended albums you should listen to at least once (21–30)
Kumui UtaCocco
The second album by Okinawan singer-songwriter Cocco, Kumuiuta, is a classic released in May 1998.
It debuted at No.
1 on the Oricon Weekly Chart and went on to sell nearly one million copies.
As suggested by its title—meaning “lullaby” in the Okinawan dialect—the album is captivating for its distinctive sensibility and poetic lyrics.
Blending J-pop with alternative rock, the songs reflect Okinawan culture and scenery, marked by deep emotion and beautiful melodies.
The track Tsuyoku Hakanai Monotachi was also used as the theme song for a TV drama, further boosting Cocco’s recognition.
BanzaiUrufuruzu
The fourth album by Ulfuls, a rock band from Osaka known for their soulful vocals and exhilarating, fast-paced sound.
Released in April 1996, this classic includes tracks that are considered signature songs of the band.
It sold over one million copies soon after its release.
The energetic band sound and powerful vocals weave together songs that deliver uplifting messages and inspire listeners.
It’s the perfect album to play when you’re feeling down or want to push yourself—guaranteed to recharge your energy.
Everybody!!WANIMA
This is the second full-length album by WANIMA, a three-piece rock band from Kumamoto Prefecture, released in 2018.
Their style, a faithful successor to Japan’s melodic hardcore scene, is alive and well here, packed with standout tracks featuring exhilarating speed and punchy vocals.
It includes many of their signature songs and commercially prominent tracks, such as Signal—written specifically for the 18 Fes—as well as Tomoni and Yatte Miyou.
The album swept the top spot across various charts, so if you haven’t heard it yet, be sure to check it out.
AttitudeMrs. GREEN APPLE
Mrs.
GREEN APPLE’s album “Attitude” is a work that symbolizes their musical evolution.
Released in October 2019, the album marked a new milestone in the band’s career.
It presents a unique sound that fuses a variety of genres, including pop, rock, funk, and jazz.
It’s a record that showcases the breadth of Mrs.
GREEN APPLE’s musicality and their spirit of experimentation, making it highly recommended for anyone seeking to discover new music.
chandelierback number
Back Number’s album “Chandelier” is their fifth album, released in December 2015.
Imbued with the band’s desire to create songs that are close to their listeners, it features many popular tracks, including poignant love-themed songs.
In particular, the third track, “Heroine,” was used in JR East’s ski trip campaign commercial, making it one of their signature songs.
Packed with the essence of Back Number’s appeal, this album is recommended for those struggling with love or anyone who wants to find small moments of happiness in everyday life.
Vocaloid immersionWagakki Band
This is the debut album of Wagakki Band, a work that opened up new possibilities for Japanese rock.
Its innovative musicality—fusing traditional Japanese instruments with contemporary rock sound—grabs listeners and won’t let go.
Released in April 2014, the album features covers of popular VOCALOID songs, radiating a fresh appeal through the blend of wagakki tones and rock.
Sparked by their appearance at France’s Japan Expo, the band also received high acclaim overseas.
It’s a must-listen not only for those interested in traditional Japanese music, but also for rock fans seeking a new musical experience.
If you want to rediscover the charm of Japanese instruments, this album is highly recommended.
Swaying feelingsZARD
The album Yureru Omoi, released in July 1993, is known as ZARD’s fourth studio album and is regarded as a masterpiece.
It features a diverse range of songs, from emotional ballads to pop tunes.
Characterized by Izumi Sakai’s clear, transparent vocals and melodies that resonate with the heart, the album includes many tracks themed around heartbreak, hope, and everyday moments.
One of the tracks, Makenaide, was used in a Nissin Cup Noodles commercial and is widely known as a song that gives courage to many people.
Listening to the album as a whole lets you appreciate ZARD’s musicality more deeply.
It’s highly recommended for those who want to be soothed by heartfelt lyrics and beautiful melodies.