[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)
Stop the worldTHE COLLECTORS
THE COLLECTORS have been a driving force in Japan’s rock scene with a style deeply influenced by British beat and mod culture.
They made their major-label debut in 1987 with the album “Boku wa Collector” (I Am a Collector).
Their 1993 single “Sekai o Tomete” (Stop the World) is known as one of their signature songs.
In March 2017, they celebrated their 30th anniversary with their first headlining concert at Nippon Budokan, a resounding success that attests to their prowess as a live band.
Why not experience their top-tier rock ’n’ roll that stands apart from passing trends?
Samaland in the eveningUlulU
UlulU is a band whose sharp words—capturing fleeting moments of everyday life—and impulsive performances strike straight to the heart.
Based in Tokyo, this three-piece blends the raw edge of garage rock with melody-rich songwriting.
Formed around 2015, they even embarked on a Canadian tour in 2018, showing the drive to cross borders.
Hanayo Otaki’s earnest vocals stir the listener’s emotions.
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.
[Japanese Rock] Recommended Japanese Rock Bands (11–20)
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.
PepinAJICO
Formed in 2000, AJICO is a four-piece band that blazed a vivid trail.
Centered around vocalist UA and guitarist Kenichi Asai, the lineup features bassist TOKIE and drummer Kyoichi Shiino—a true dream team.
Although they left behind the classic album “Shinryoku” in 2001 and then went on hiatus, they restarted in 2021 after roughly 20 years, making a comeback with the EP “Setsuzoku.” Their unique sound blends the raw grit of garage rock with jazz and dub elements brought in by each member.
Rock ‘n’ Roll PranksterHelsinki Lambda Club
An alternative rock band that effortlessly crosses genre boundaries with addictive melodies and experimental arrangements.
Since forming in 2013, the trio of Kaoru Hashimoto, Kodai Inaba, and Taiki Kumagai has been active together.
After winning the Grand Prix at the UK.PROJECT audition, they made their debut in 2014.
Their appeal lies in catchy yet idiosyncratic soundscapes, as heard in signature tracks like “Lost in the Supermarket.” In 2019, they played their first overseas show in Hong Kong and have since completed successful tours across Asia, including Taiwan and China.
Blending the vibe of Western indie with the strengths of Japanese rock, they’re perfect for anyone seeking stimulating music.
Falling downKiller Beach
A rock band based in Miyagi, delivering dry, UK rock–inspired guitar tones and impulsive melodies.
Formed in 2021 and centered around vocalist Naoki Yamashita, they blend the raw energy of garage rock with a modern cool edge.
Their 2022 album “THE FIRST” drew significant attention, selling out at some shops on the day of release, and in July 2024 they released the album “and the good…”.
They also engage in storytelling-driven projects, such as composing songs in collaboration with a fiction posting site.
If you’re craving razor-sharp rock ’n’ roll, give them a listen.