[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 (121–130)
smokePerushikaria
Persicaria is a rock band from Saitama Prefecture.
They’re often introduced as an alternative rock band, but their music leans strongly toward pop and classic rock, featuring easy-to-listen-to melodies without strong quirks.
A song that really showcases their appeal is Kemuri (“Smoke”).
It’s characterized by an extremely catchy progression, and as you’ll notice when you listen, their sound puts a strong emphasis on letting the lyrics shine.
Many of Persicaria’s songs follow this approach, so be sure to check them out.
Anthem of CounterattackRyukku to soine gohan
Ryukku to Soinē Gohan, also known by the nickname “Ryukuso,” are a guitar rock band.
The turning point that made them known to many rock listeners was winning RO JACK, the audition that awards a performance slot at ROCK IN JAPAN in 2019.
Still in high school at the time, they delivered an impressive performance on the big stage and quickly drew widespread attention.
Their songs are packed with highlights: catchy guitar riffs, superb song structures that make you want to replay them, and finely crafted arrangements for each instrument.
They’re a talented rock band that not only appeals to younger listeners but is one adults should definitely check out as well.
TokyoTetsukaze Tōkyō
Tetsukaze Tokyo is a rock band based in Sendai.
Formed in 2018, they drew attention when the music video for Gaitō to Apāto, released during their senior year of high school, became a hit, along with tracks uploaded to the music distribution site Eggs.
Their music features a heavy rock sound infused with warm guitar arpeggios, often evoking scenes that are wistful and emotional.
They are a band that delivers driving rock numbers in live performances, offering songs that resonate with the anxieties and loneliness of youth.
If I sing to the sky175R
They’re a punk rock band that falls into the category of “youth punk.” Their straightforward, message-driven lyrics and sound were popular with young people at the time, and many are still influenced by them today.
They’re one of the rock bands that helped shape an era.
It seems their activities were on hiatus for a time, but they’ve since returned.
[Japanese Rock] Recommended Japanese Rock Bands (131–140)
Nameless Hero9mm Parabellum Bullet
9mm Parabellum Bullet is known for their intense live performances.
Their movements are so extreme that some members have even broken bones during shows.
Their songs range widely—from heavy rock to pop-influenced tunes—so you can enjoy many different styles from a single band.
They always fire up the crowd at festivals, so if you get the chance, be sure to check them out.
A proofACIDMAN
It might be an irresistible band especially for rock kids from the 2000s.
ACIDMAN is a three-piece band formed in 1997.
Their appeal lies in philosophically tinged lyrics and a sound that sometimes sets your heart ablaze and other times gently soaks in.
They’ve produced nothing but timeless classics that never fade, no matter how many years pass.
Be sure to listen and immerse yourself in the world of ACIDMAN.
A knife in the waterART-SCHOOL
An alternative rock band formed in 2000 centered around vocalist Riki Kinoshita.
They’re captivating for their thick, downer-leaning sound and Kinoshita’s rough, boyish singing voice.
This song stands out with its striking guitar and bittersweet, profound lyrics.
It’s even cooler live.