[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 (1–10)
Space SonicELLEGARDEN
ELLEGARDEN is one of Japan’s leading rock bands, enjoying immense popularity especially among people in their 20s and 30s.
After a period of hiatus, they made a comeback in 2018.
Not only longtime fans who had supported them from the beginning, but also younger generations who discovered them during the hiatus can now experience their live shows.
Their straightforward, simply cool songs are must-listens.
BBTSiM
They’re an indispensable presence in Japan’s loud rock scene! Formed in 2004, SiM has won popularity with a unique sound that fuses punk, reggae, metal, emo, and more.
They made their major-label debut in 2013 and produced hit songs like “KiLLiNG ME” and “The Rumbling.” In 2015, they successfully headlined a show at Nippon Budokan, and their momentum hasn’t slowed since.
Their blend of fierce band sound and catchy melodies captivates not only loud rock fans but a wide range of listeners.
If you love rock—or just want to discover something new—this is a band you definitely should check out!
BUGTHE ORAL CIGARETTES
THE ORAL CIGARETTES is a four-piece rock band from Nara Prefecture, formed in 2010.
Their appeal lies in a mature sensuality that can be felt within their energetic sound.
In particular, vocalist Takuya Yamanaka’s sweet voice grabs listeners’ hearts.
They have raised their profile through anime tie-ins and more.
[Japanese Rock] Recommended Japanese Rock Bands (11–20)
RaiseChilli Beans.
Chilli Beans.
is a three-piece band formed in 2019.
Consisting of Moto, Maika, and Lily, the band has been gaining attention for their so-called neo-garage sound.
Their songs feature cool vocals and catchy melodies, and in 2021 they released their debut EP, “d a n c i n g a l o n e.” In July 2022, they dropped their first full album, “Chilli Beans.,” showcasing their talents to the fullest.
They’ve been steadily growing their fanbase, including holding their first solo concert at Ebisu LIQUIDROOM in Tokyo in September of the same year.
Chilli Beans.
has also been active across a wide range of media, contributing theme songs to popular anime and TV dramas.
They’re a recommended band not only for rock fans but also for anyone looking to discover fresh new music.
Make up your mind!Sabasusutā
Sabasister is a three-piece girls’ band formed in March 2022.
The band, made up of Nachi, Luminas, and GK, has been drawing attention at a remarkable pace, performing at SUMMER SONIC just five months after forming.
Their live performances are highly acclaimed, and their first demo, “Saba no Ichi,” released in September 2022, showcases their talent to the fullest.
Each member’s unique musical background is also compelling, making them a must-listen for rock fans seeking fresh sensibilities!
poolemakaroni enpitsu
Macaroni Enpitsu is a band formed in Kanagawa in 2012, made up of members who graduated from a music university.
Hattori’s emotional vocals are striking, and as their popularity steadily grew, they made their major-label debut in 2020.
Many of their songs portray bittersweet romance or evoke a sense of youth, with delicately crafted lyrics that resonate deeply.
Their exquisite balance of musical sophistication and catchy melodies has earned them support not only from rock fans but from a wide audience.
Ill HumorNo Buses
Formed in Tokyo in 2016, they captivate listeners with a raw, edgy musical style.
They performed at SUMMER SONIC in 2018, and their debut full-length album, released the following year in 2019, won the Tower Records ‘Tawarecome’ Award, cementing their proven talent.
From exhilarating, fast-paced guitar rock to the introspective sonic textures showcased on the album “Sweet Home,” their work displays remarkable depth and craftsmanship.