[From Classics to the Latest] A Roundup of Recommended Japanese Rock Bands! [2026]

Music writer / guitarist / Certified web writing practitionerHoshino Takashi
Drawing on over 30 years of experience with guitars and bands since my high school days, I specialize in music-related articles and have handled many feature pieces to date. While my tastes lean toward genres like hard rock and heavy metal since I first picked up the guitar, I make a point of listening to a wide range of styles, both Japanese and Western, on a daily basis. I began working as a freelance writer in 2018. I hold a Web Writing Practical Certification, and in addition to writing, I’m also studying video editing. In my private life, I’m raising an elementary school child and stay active while supporting their extracurriculars, such as parkour and dance.
Editor-in-Chief, RAG MUSICHane Keisuke
Editor-in-chief of RAG MUSIC. JFC-certified fact-checker. After working in a music studio and handling wedding sound, joined the RAG MUSIC editorial team in 2016. Experienced with a variety of instruments: marching band in elementary school, clarinet in junior high school wind ensemble, and drums in a band from high school onward. Drawing on my own musical activities and the experience gained through my work, I produce daily articles, including various song introductions, features on music festivals around the country, and live reports. In music, I enjoy not only rock from Japan and abroad but, lately, a wide range of J-pop as well.

In recent years, music festivals of all sizes have been held all over the place, and rock bands’ songs are often used for commercials and TV drama theme songs! Rock bands frequently appear at the top of the charts, and the Japanese rock scene is drawing a lot of attention.

But with so many bands active, plenty of people might be thinking, “I don’t know which songs to start with!” So in this article, we’ll introduce a bunch of classic Japanese rock bands.

First, try listening to the bands featured here and figure out what kind of sound you like!

[From Classics to the Latest] A Roundup of Recommended Japanese Rock Bands! [2026] (111–120)

You side meOdd Lazy

Odd Lazy 『You side me』

You side meOdd Lazy

Odd Lazy is a rock band from Osaka, formed by Narutomi and Sasuke.

They released their demo “Brilliant edge” in 2020.

With emotional melodies and powerful rhythms, they wield an addictive sound that also incorporates elements of pop punk.

Their relatable lyrics, which sing about everyday struggles and hope, are another key draw.

Following the March 2024 release of “TWiNKLE NiGHT,” they embarked on a nationwide tour, expanding their reach.

Keep an eye on what they do next!

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lonelySLACK

SLACK – lonely（Official Music Video）

lonelySLACK

A three-piece band bursting with a sense of speed and youthful energy.

SLACK was formed in Shizuoka in June 2022.

Despite being available only at shows, their demo single “lonely,” released in February 2023, sold out immediately.

Their energetic live performances and songs that resonate with their generation are sure to hit especially hard with young melodic hardcore fans.

They’re playing live across Japan—including Shizuoka, Aichi, Kanagawa, and Osaka—so be sure to check for updates!

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SupermanSee You Smile

See You Smile – Superman – MV【OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO】

SupermanSee You Smile

See You Smile is a rock band based in Tokyo.

Formed in 2016 around guitarist Ayato, they’ve been active under the banner of “TOKYO POP PUNK.” They debuted in 2017 with the single “Stay Right Where You Are,” and released their first nationwide EP, “WILD,” in 2019.

In 2020, they hosted their first festival, “YOU VS FEST 2020,” at Yokohama’s 1000CLUB, earning attention for their contributions to the scene.

Highly recommended for fans of fast, high-energy pop punk.

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movementSpecialThanks

SpecialThanks / Movement [Official Music Video]

movementSpecialThanks

They are a pop-punk band formed in Aichi Prefecture in 2005.

Armed with a fast-paced, melodic sound, they’ve been actively performing and releasing music.

In 2008, they released the mini-album “SEVEN COLORS.” In 2014, they drew attention by performing the opening theme for the anime “Wolf Girl & Black Prince.” Their catchy musical style is a major draw.

If you’re looking for a female-vocal melodic hardcore band, be sure to check them out!

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permanentlyTHE FOREVER YOUNG

THE FOREVER YOUNG – Forever – [Official Video]

permanentlyTHE FOREVER YOUNG

A powerful rock sound resonating from Kurume City, Fukuoka! THE FOREVER YOUNG formed in 2007 under the name KARIBUxNOxKAIZOKU, then changed to their current name in 2014.

Frontman Hiroki Kunitake’s impassioned vocals leave a strong impression, and their music brims with a raw, sweat-and-tears intensity.

They released the mini-album “Akashi” in 2021 and the full-length album “Towa ni” in 2023.

Be sure to check out their music, where passion meets a modern sensibility!

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I Wanna Keep My Head UpTHUMB

I Wanna Keep My Head Up

I Wanna Keep My Head UpTHUMB

A high-energy melodic hardcore band with a driving sound! Formed in 1997, the three-piece band THUMB was launched by former members of SHERBET at its core.

They released numerous dynamic tracks, including the albums “PEACE OF MIND” and “Let’s Grow Up Together.” In 2000, they proved their popularity by selling out tickets instantly for the “Nine Samurai” tour.

Although they disbanded in 2002, they reunited in 2014.

Their guitar sound—deftly weaving together power chords and harmonics—is absolutely irresistible.

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wind blowingkoe

[MV] Wind Blows [koe]

wind blowingkoe

The four-piece band koe captivates with emotionally charged music rooted in rock and melodic hardcore.

The members are Eiji, Isana, and Donpisha and Pechanko, who are also active as part of the game commentary group “Sanninsho.” Their music balances originality and sincerity, winning the hearts of many.

Both their songs and music videos are fantastic—check out Fuubuki, released in 2021!

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