[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 (41–50)
Rock ‘n’ Roll ShowRC sakuseshon
RC Succession is a rock band formed around Kiyoshiro Imawano.
Even people who aren’t music fans have probably heard countless classics from them, led by “Ameagari no Yozora ni” (“In the Night After the Rain”) and “Slow Ballad,” a song beloved and covered by many artists.
They first drew attention in 1972 with “Boku no Suki na Sensei” (“My Favorite Teacher”), and their later achievements are spoken of to this day.
While their music has a broadly accessible ease of listening, it shines with songs that speak directly and simply, set to R&B-inflected rhythms.
Their lyrics, which resonate with that initial spark of youthful impulse—a roguish charm you might find yourself missing—are part of their appeal.
Their contributions to establishing rock in the Japanese language are immeasurable.
[J-Rock] Recommended Japanese Rock Bands (51–60)
Supernova9mm Parabellum Bullet
Formed in Yokohama, Kanagawa in 2004, 9mm Parabellum Bullet is a skilled rock band with a distinctive presence, spanning a wide musical range from post-hardcore to heavy metal.
They made their major debut in 2007, and their album “Termination” reached No.
10 on the Oricon charts.
Since then, they have continued to captivate many listeners with powerful performances and a unique worldview.
In September 2009, they proved their prowess by successfully headlining a solo show at Nippon Budokan.
The heavy sound woven by Takuro Sugawara’s vocals and Yoshimitsu Taki’s guitar becomes even more compelling when experienced live.
Energetically active—having also performed at Yokohama Arena—the band’s music is perfect for fans seeking both powerful performances and melodic elements.
MAGENTADevil’s Inlay
Centered around guitarist MON, Devil’s Inlay is a metalcore band formed in Osaka in 2013, known for their powerful, hard-hitting sound.
They released the EP “EVOKE” in August 2015 and followed up with the mini-album “DIARY OF A CROW” in 2017.
With thrashy guitar riffs, a heavyweight rhythm section, and roar-based vocals fused together, they embody a classic, straight-down-the-line style.
They’re the perfect band for anyone who wants to fully experience the pure, aggressive appeal of metalcore.
Satisfied?The Muddies
Riding the revival boom, The Muddies are one of the most talked-about bands right now.
Rooted in alternative rock influenced by garage rock and Black music, they fuse authentically Western-style phrasing with the passionate energy characteristic of Japanese rock.
Rather than a vocalist-centric act, they’re a band that lets the entire ensemble carry the songs—akin to King Gnu—with intricate developments appearing throughout their tracks.
Boys Jump The MidnightTHE STREET SLIDERS
The Street Sliders, a legendary band that shook Japan’s rock scene and blazed a trail since their 1983 debut.
Their signature songs include “EASY ACTION” and “Arittake no Coin.” Although they disbanded in 2000, their 2023 reunion and performance at Nippon Budokan became a hot topic.
Centered around the live presence of vocalist and guitarist HARRY and featuring Ranmaru’s tasty guitar work, the band boasts many charms.
Their rock ’n’ roll rhythmic drive is exhilarating, and their timeless, unchanging style makes them undeniably cool.
Irreversible replacementMY FIRST STORY
MY FIRST STORY—aka Myfas—is guaranteed to get you pumped the moment you hit play.
Centered around relentless live activity, they draw attention with their own tours, appearances at a variety of domestic music festivals, and collaborations with overseas artists.
Formed in Tokyo in 2011, they made their major debut in 2012 with the album “MY FIRST STORY.” Soon after, they embarked on a tour covering all 47 prefectures, culminating in a live show in Taiwan.
Highly recommended for when you want to go all out and crank your energy to the max!
Good Night DarlingSHANK
SHANK is a three-piece rock band from Nagasaki.
This song is included on their 2012 album “Calling.” It’s a track that conveys a burning passion.
The fast, melodic hardcore sound is really cool.
