[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 (201–210)
Stand by Methe peggies
the peggies are a rapidly rising next-generation all-girl band.
They’re known for many refreshing, high-velocity rock tracks and a strong reputation for emotional live performances.
The band members are seniors and juniors from the same middle and high school, and they met through the light music club.
Since their school apparently prohibited entertainment activities, they became much more active after graduating.
A red life is burning.THE Inazuma Sentai
THE Inazuma Sentai is a band formed in 1997 that made its major debut in 2003.
“Akai Inochi ga Moeteiru” is a song included on the album “LIVE GOES ON!” released in May 2017.
March of LifeZa Kuromaniyonzu
Since their debut at a radio station’s live event in 2006, they have remained highly active up to 2023, when this was written.
Led by Hiroto Kōmoto, who spearheaded THE BLUE HEARTS, and Masatoshi Mashima, who also worked on THE HIGH-LOWS, their rock ’n’ roll—delivered by some of Japan’s foremost rock stars—is a must-listen even for those who aren’t rock fans.
Alongside simple, straightforward expression, their music overflows with masculine power.
At their core is a gently affirming message that makes you feel “there’s nothing in this world that’s truly no good,” making them a wonderful rock band.
Game OverDATS
They are a four-piece male rock band formed in 2013.
The band came together after vocalist and synthesizer player MONJOE uploaded demo tracks online in 2013, prompting bassist Tomoki Hayakawa to propose forming a band.
They have performed at festivals such as Fuji Rock, and their commanding presence on stage has earned them high acclaim.
RUMBLE feat. Masato from coldrainPaledusk
Have you heard of Paledusk, the hardcore band from Fukuoka? Their music weaves together heavy guitar riffs, death growls, and shouts, drawing attention with a unique style that transcends genre boundaries.
Their live shows are marked by powerful, dynamic staging and immersive production that pulls the audience in.
Their energetic performances have captivated many fans.
They’re also available on Spotify and Apple Music, so be sure to check them out!
She Hates DecemberPeople In The Box
A three-piece band whose smart sound makes the most of a trio format, blending complex rhythms with pop vocal melodies and an innocent voice to build a mysterious worldview.
This track, paired with vocalist Hatano’s distinctive, gentle tone, feels like you’re being carried off to another world as you listen.
The modulations are irresistibly captivating, too!
D.A.N.C.E.ROTTENGRAFFTY
ROTTENGRAFFTY is a five-piece rock band based in Kyoto.
Since forming in 1999, they’ve pushed straight ahead through ups and downs.
They released their first mini-album, “RADICAL PEACE×RADICAL GENOCIDE,” in 2001, and made their major-label debut with Universal Music in 2006.
Their appeal lies in a diverse musical style that spans loud rock, ska, punk, and hip-hop, along with melodies that carry the essence of classic Japanese pop.
They’re also known for their performance skills, sometimes delivering improvised vocals live.
If you like melodic, accessible tunes paired with a heavy sound, ROTTENGRAFFTY comes highly recommended.