[Japanese Rock] Recommended Japanese Rock Bands
In Japan, large-scale rock festivals keep increasing, and the popularity of rock bands is really on the rise! On subscription services like Spotify and Apple Music, band tracks frequently appear in playlists and rankings, so I’m sure many of you listen to them regularly.
As opportunities to encounter rock bands grow like this, I bet more and more people are getting interested in the domestic rock scene.
That said, there are so many rock bands out there that you might be thinking, “I don’t even know where to start listening…” That’s why in this article, I’ll introduce rock bands you should definitely check out, in recommended order! Start by listening to the bands introduced at the beginning of this article!
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[Japanese Rock] Recommended Japanese Rock Bands (91–100)
Law of the Seatiny yawn
tiny yawn has been gaining attention for their distinctive sound that weaves together elements of ’90s emo, post-rock, and neo-soul.
Formed in 2017, this four-piece crafts a sound where delicate riffs and technical musicianship create something simple yet deeply resonant.
In 2021, they won ROAD TO JAPAN JAM and received the Roland Award at Ototama Grand Prix, earning high praise within the scene.
Their songs gently capture the small emotions and everyday scenes of daily life—highly recommended for anyone seeking a soothing respite from a busy day.
Resistoruri gagarn
Formed in 2001, uri gagarn is an alternative rock band centered around Ibunbashi.
Starting with their album “Untitled,” they’ve developed a distinctive sound that weaves in diverse elements such as post-rock and emo.
In 2016, they performed at FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL, boosting their reputation both in Japan and abroad.
They’ve remained highly active, collaborating with overseas artists like Sebadoh and regularly hosting their self-produced event series “Monthly Bokura.” Dive into their sound world, where meticulous and experimental approaches intertwine.
Take one tablet without water.wash?
Wash?, a band whose appeal lies in a sound that fuses alternative rock and grunge, was formed in Tokyo in 2002.
Centered around Dai Okumura, the lineup became a trio when bassist Masamitsu Kawasaki joined in 2011 and drummer Takanori Sugiyama in 2019.
Their roaring guitars and driving rhythms have captivated many fans.
It’s perfect for those who want to sublimate everyday emotions through music.
AngelRyuubensu
The Tokyo-based alternative rock band Rubens brings together the gentleness of J-pop with the raw allure of an alternative sound.
Since 2022, they’ve been releasing primarily via digital platforms.
The band features Serena’s delicate vocals and poetic lyrics, Etsu’s melodious guitar, Mary on bass, and Matsumaru’s dynamic drumming.
True to their name, inspired by the Baroque master painter, they are marked by high artistry and richly expressive emotion.
They’re a band that strikes a chord with listeners seeking a fresh jolt.
nineteenRusan’chiman
Ressentiment is an alternative rock band that emerged from the light music club of Tokyo Metropolitan Musashigaoka High School.
Their name embodies the drive to aim higher by channeling defiance toward rulers and the powerful.
Starting with their 2020 demo EP “Kazaana Akeru,” they have actively released work including their first mini-album “memento.” Their sound shows the influence of math rock, and is characterized by lyrics and vocals that capture raw, unfiltered emotion.
They deliver music that resonates deeply with those who feel a sense of dissatisfaction or loneliness in their present circumstances.
riskKroi
Kroi is gaining attention for their musical style rooted in Black music, blending a wide range of genres including R&B, funk, soul, rock, and hip-hop.
Formed in February 2018, they rose to prominence by winning an audition out of roughly 3,000 groups and performing at Summer Sonic, among other remarkable achievements.
They made their major debut with the album “LENS” in June 2021, and in January 2024 held a one-man show at the Nippon Budokan in Tokyo.
Each member brings a different musical background, drawing influence from a wide array of artists such as Red Hot Chili Peppers, Lauryn Hill, and Earth, Wind & Fire.
They’re a five-piece band perfect for music fans seeking a unique, genre-crossing mixture sound that transcends scene boundaries.
Burning Friday NightLucky Kilimanjaro
Lucky Kilimanjaro fuses city pop and R&B with dance music to create a refined groove.
Formed in 2014 by six members who met in their university light music club, they made their major debut in November 2018.
Their nonstop, seamlessly connected live performances and soundscapes that blend nostalgia with freshness are key attractions.
They’ve appeared at many major summer festivals, making their presence felt at events like SUMMER SONIC, FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL, and ROCK IN JAPAN.
With 80s-inspired, synth-driven sounds and lyrics that carry a positive message, they deliver danceable music that fits into everyday life.
Their cohesive, DJ set–like live shows are a must-see, making them a rising act recommended for both dance music fans and lovers of band-driven sounds.