[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 (111–120)
Get Up, LucyTHEE MICHELLE GUN ELEPHANT
Formed in 1991, the four-piece rock band THEE MICHELLE GUN ELEPHANT made their major-label debut in 1996 with a distinctive sound that fused garage, blues, punk, and more.
Known for their energetic live performances—often hitting more than 40 stops on a single tour—they also appeared at major festivals like Fuji Rock.
Yusuke Chiba’s distinctive vocals and the raw sound crafted by the entire band influenced countless fans and musicians.
Until their breakup in 2003, they were a leading presence in Japan’s rock scene.
They’re a perfect match for music fans seeking powerful rock ’n’ roll and fiery live performances.
Telecastic fake showRin to shite Shigure
Formed in Saitama in 2002, Ling tosite sigure is a three-piece band known for its unique sound that fuses diverse genres such as indie rock and post-hardcore.
They made their debut in November 2005 with the album “#4” on their own label, and went on to make a major-label debut with Sony Music in 2008.
Their appeal lies in intricate guitar melodies, technical drumming, and the distinctive expression of their male–female twin vocals, and they have provided themes for many anime works.
Centered around TK, who writes and composes all songs, each member also pursues solo activities.
They are a highly skilled band that has greatly influenced subsequent artists such as Soko ni Naru and Soushi Sakiyama.
Why not revisit their innovative sound along with the nostalgic memories etched in your youth?
From here onkepura
Kepla is drawing attention with down-to-earth lyrics that resonate with listeners and a driving, high-speed sound.
Formed in September 2020, the four-piece rock band has a youthfully evocative backstory: all members are classmates from Tokyo Metropolitan Saginomiya High School.
They made their debut in July 2021 with the mini-album “Days of Youth,” achieving a remarkable milestone as its tracks surpassed 100,000 views on YouTube.
In September 2024, they made their major-label debut with EMI Records, fully blooming with the skills they honed during their indie days.
Another appeal is their fan-centered approach: the members themselves handle merch and jacket design, keeping a close connection with their audience.
Their songs, which feel like snapshots of fleeting moments of youth, feature fresh sensibilities and lyrics that evoke real empathy, steadily growing their fanbase—especially among younger listeners.
huge nuisanceyunikōn
Unicorn is a pioneering rock band hailing from Hiroshima.
Formed in 1986, they made their major-label debut the following year with the album “BOOM.” They established a new band style in which all members write lyrics, compose music, and share vocal duties, and they have cultivated a wide-ranging sound from pop rock to progressive rock.
In 1990, their album “Kedamono no Arashi” won the Album Award at the 32nd Japan Record Awards.
After disbanding in 1993, they reunited in 2009 and have continued to captivate many fans with even greater musical freedom.
Highly recommended for listeners seeking distinctive sounds and a unique lyrical world.
HEROESBrian the Sun
This song was used as the ending theme for the anime My Hero Academia.
I think it’s a refreshingly upbeat track that matches the show perfectly.
It has the feel of pure guitar rock.
It’s also a song that should be easy for beginners to get into.
WhiteSHE’S
A gentle, enveloping voice that makes you want to keep listening.
I bet many people find every song by SHE’S to be right up their alley.
They have a lot of tracks that feel cleansing for the soul.
They’re a top‑recommended band I really hope you’ll catch at festivals or circuit events.
Mela!Ryokushokushakai
Lately, I feel like I’ve been seeing this band’s name a lot more.
They’re getting featured on TV here and there, too.
Their solid, distinctive vocals and their bright, uplifting piano rock sound really beautiful.
They’re the kind of band that makes you want to sing along.