[From Classics to the Latest] A Roundup of Recommended Japanese Rock Bands! [2026]
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!
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[From Classics to the Latest] A Roundup of Recommended Japanese Rock Bands! [2026] (111–120)
KichijojiANORAK!
ANORAK! is a band formed in Tokyo in 2019.
Their appeal lies in a sound that fuses elements of the emo revival and melodic punk.
Their prowess has earned high praise from Masafumi Goto of ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION.
Since their first EP in 2020, they’ve steadily released new music, and in 2024 they put out their second album, “Self-actualization and the ignorance and hesitation towards it.” Their unconventional sound features delicate twin-guitar arpeggios and bold tempo shifts.
Highly recommended for those who want to be moved by an emotional resonance.
[From Classics to the Latest] Recommended Japanese Rock Bands Roundup! [2026] (121–130)
Rough LoveDNA STATION
DNA GAINZ is a four-piece alternative rock band from Shimane Prefecture.
Since forming in March 2022, they’ve delivered a rugged sound paired with emotionally rich vocals.
The lineup features Nagatana Wayasan on vocals and guitar, Tatsuya on guitar, Hada Ibuki on bass, and Hiromu on drums.
In 2023, they produced the mini-album “We’re Good Kids Who’ve Spent Our Belief to the Limit Just to Live.” In November 2024, they released a five-track EP and embarked on a tour across seven cities nationwide.
Their songs, themed around anxiety, inner conflict, and hope, carry powerful messages that resonate deeply.
If you’re searching for meaning in life, give their music a listen.
minamisenjudownt
downt is a three-piece rock band known for powerful performances and emotionally charged melodies.
Formed in Tokyo in the spring of 2021, they craft a sound that blends elements of emo, post-rock, and alternative rock.
They made their debut in October 2021 with their self-titled album “downt,” attracting attention in the indie rock scene.
In June 2022, they released a six-track EP, “SAKANA e.p.” That same year, they performed in the FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL’s ROOKIE A GO-GO slot, earning high praise for their live show.
They’re the perfect band for listeners seeking raw, intense performances and a lyrically resonant, emotive soundscape.
Overdriveosage
Osage, a four-piece rock band from Shimokitazawa, has been gaining attention for a sound that blends nostalgia with freshness.
Their music is rich with appeal, driven by Kenta Yamaguchi’s distinctive vocals and the members’ outstanding musicianship.
After winning the grand prize at the murffin discs audition in 2018, they made their major-label debut in 2024 on gr8! records.
Their strength lies in a sonic palette that incorporates diverse genres such as mixture rock and hip-hop.
They’re a must-listen for anyone exploring the possibilities of music.
cheeksayonara poezi
Sayonara Poetry is a rock band from Kobe, Hyogo.
Formed in 2012, they have broadened their activity while establishing a unique style that weaves in emotional elements and post-rock-like developments.
With literary, deeply meaningful lyrics—as heard in songs like “Zensen ni Tsugu” and “Nisoku Sanmon”—and the expressive power to depict everyday anxieties and inner conflicts, they’ve captured the hearts of many listeners.
Their high-energy live performances are another major draw.
If you’re into alternative rock, their music is a must-listen!
decorationakashikku
Akashic is a rock band formed in 2011.
Their 2014 mini-album “Conservative” reached No.
1 on the indie chart at Tower Records Shibuya, and they made their major-label debut the following year in 2015 under unBORDE.
They fuse an impulsive, primal sensibility with a diverse sound that spans J-pop, progressive rock, and jazz rock.
Although they disbanded in 2019, they resumed activities in November 2024.
Let yourself be swept away by the vortex of their emotions.
nineteenRusan’chiman
Ressentiment is an alternative rock band that emerged from the light music club of Tokyo Metropolitan Musashigaoka High School.
Their name embodies the drive to aim higher by channeling defiance toward rulers and the powerful.
Starting with their 2020 demo EP “Kazaana Akeru,” they have actively released work including their first mini-album “memento.” Their sound shows the influence of math rock, and is characterized by lyrics and vocals that capture raw, unfiltered emotion.
They deliver music that resonates deeply with those who feel a sense of dissatisfaction or loneliness in their present circumstances.