[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 (101–110)
Plan ADISH//
DISH// is a band that continues to energize the music scene with a new style that fuses band performance and dance.
They debuted in June 2012 with their first indie single, “It’s alright,” and steadily grew their fan base after making their major-label debut in June 2013.
In 2020, they won an Excellence Award at the 62nd Japan Record Awards, and in December 2021, they made their first appearance on the 72nd NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen, continuing their rapid ascent.
Capable across a wide range of genres—including pop, rock, and ballads—DISH//’s musicianship and energetic live performances instantly captivate audiences.
They have many collaborations with anime as well; their opening theme songs, in particular, enjoy strong support from overseas fans.
Highly recommended for music lovers seeking passionate performances and catchy songs.
long hairFOMARE
A melodic hardcore band that took flight from Takasaki City in Gunma Prefecture to the entire country.
Since their formation in 2014, they have steadily built their career, winning the runner-up prize at FM Gunma’s band contest “ROCKERS2015” in November 2015.
They went on to top the Oricon Indie Albums Chart with their album “FORCE,” and made their major-label debut in November 2020.
Their appeal lies in a three-piece lineup’s exhilarating, fast-paced sound, powerful vocals, and emotionally resonant Japanese lyrics, with a string of hit signature songs to their name.
With powerful musicianship and passionate live performances, they are a formidable band that captivates rock fans and doesn’t let go.
Tomorrow never knowsMr.Children
Formed in 1989, the accomplished rock band Mr.Children is an artist that represents the Japanese music scene.
They made their major debut in 1992 and quickly gained nationwide popularity.
They have achieved million-seller status with more than ten releases, and albums like Atomic Heart and BOLERO have sold over three million copies.
Characterized by Kazutoshi Sakurai’s distinctive vocals and lyrics rich in spiritual depth, their music continues to captivate listeners across generations.
With melodies and words that resonate with the listener’s heart, the band is supported by a wide range of age groups.
Their live house performances are breathtaking, offering a firsthand experience of music’s power and delicacy.
The world calls it love.Sambomasutā
Armed with passionate messages and a powerful sound, Sambomaster has secured a firm place in Japan’s rock scene.
Formed in 2000, this three-piece rock band is known for an energetic, emotional rock style.
They made their major debut in 2003, and their song used as the ending theme for the drama Densha Otoko became a big hit.
In 2011, they created a support song for the Great East Japan Earthquake recovery efforts, and they’ve continued to captivate audiences at numerous festivals and live shows.
In 2023, their achievements in the music world were recognized with the Miura Jun Award.
Takashi Yamaguchi’s distinctive vocals and powerful stage performances are must-see, and their lyrics—often centered on life and love—resonate with many.
They’re highly recommended for anyone looking to experience music brimming with energy and intensity.
Bad peopleBLANKEY JET CITY
As one of the defining rock bands of the ’90s, BLANKEY JET CITY established a distinctive garage rock sound.
After winning the Grand Ikaten King title on TBS’s “Miyake Yūji no Ikasu Band Tengoku” in 1990, they made their major-label debut with the album “Red Guitar And The Truth.” Their intense, overwhelming sound drew widespread attention, and they proved their prowess on major stages like Nippon Budokan and Yokohama Arena.
In 1997, they headlined the Fuji Rock Festival, cementing their popularity.
Though they disbanded to much regret after their July 2000 show at Yokohama Arena, their music continues to influence many musicians.
They’re the perfect band for music fans who seek powerful performances and a uniquely imaginative world.
[Japanese Rock] Recommended Japanese Rock Bands (111–120)
Why I’m MeRIZE
Formed in 1997, the Japanese three-piece rock band RIZE delivers a unique sound that fuses a wide range of genres, including mixture rock, alternative rock, nu metal, and punk rock.
They made their major debut in August 2000 with the release of the album “ROOKEY.” After relocating their base of operations to Los Angeles, they expanded their activities overseas, including a U.S.
tour with Kottonmouth Kings.
In December 2017, they proved their prowess by successfully holding the first Nippon Budokan concert in the band’s history.
With passionate messages and overwhelming performances, RIZE continues to leave a powerful mark on the J-rock scene, offering a moving experience with their heartfelt, high-energy sound.
Let’s go avant-gardeTHE YELLOW MONKEY
A band that represents Japan’s rock scene, formed in 1988.
Making their major-label debut in 1992, THE YELLOW MONKEY built a unique artistic world while drawing on the essence of British glam rock and hard rock.
They produced numerous mega-hits and sold over 9 million records by the time they went on hiatus in 2001.
Since their 2016 reunion, their prowess has remained undiminished, with a dazzling list of honors including MTV Japan’s Inspiration Award Japan and the Japan Record Award.
Kazuya Yoshii’s commanding vocals and dramatic lyricism, combined with the powerful sound woven by the Kikuchi brothers—real-life siblings on rhythm section and guitar—continue to move music fans across generations.
Their exquisite body of work, where the essence of rock fuses with distinctly Japanese expression, is perfect for anyone looking to rediscover the wonder of music.