[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] Recommended Japanese Rock Bands Roundup! [2026] (1–10)
Be Bold!BRADIO
A three-piece rock band that calls themselves “extraordinary stylists.” Formed in 2010, they made their CD debut in 2013 with the mini-album DIAMOND POPS.
Their appeal lies in a sound infused with elements of funk, soul, and R&B, paired with highly entertaining performances.
In 2015, they were featured as an anime opening theme and quickly garnered attention.
Their hallmark is a groovy, drum’n’bass-driven sound and the distinctive voice of vocalist Takaaki Shingyoji.
They’ve also performed at major festivals like ROCK IN JAPAN FESTIVAL, earning high praise for the intensity of their live shows.
A recommended band for anyone looking to add color to their everyday life.
take awayThe Biscats
A four-piece band attracting attention for their unique hybrid rockabilly sound.
They released their debut album, “The Biscats,” in 2020, and the track “Sweet Jukebox” has become a signature song for the band.
Their innovative approach—blending traditional rockabilly with modern elements—has been praised and has garnered broad support, especially among younger listeners.
Notably, their collaboration with DJ/producer TeddyLoid has earned high acclaim from music industry professionals as an ambitious work that expresses the spirit of rock ’n’ roll through a contemporary sound.
The Biscats’ music is highly recommended for anyone looking to explore new forms of music.
Yummy YummyMAYSON’s PARTY
MAYSON’s PARTY is a top-tier party band that burst onto the melodic and ska-punk scene.
Formed in 2018 around former members of SKALL HEADZ, the group expanded to a seven-piece lineup in February 2021.
With roots in ska, melodic punk, and rock, they deliver catchy, upbeat songs with a danceable sound.
Based in Tokyo, they are highly active, performing not only their own shows but also serving as the backing band for BATTEN Showjo Tai.
In 2019, they won an open-call slot at SKAramble Japan, drawing significant attention.
With Shuhei Igari as producer, their long-awaited first mini-album was produced entirely by him.
Their live sets feature a variety of songs, including fan favorites, captivating audiences.
[From Classics to the Latest] Recommended Japanese Rock Bands Compilation! [2026] (11–20)
She, the Ultimate WeaponSCANDAL
Known as a four-member girls’ band, SCANDAL has carved out a unique place in the pop-rock world since forming in 2006.
Since their major-label debut in 2008, they have produced a string of hits, with many of their songs chosen as themes for anime and TV dramas, resonating with a wide audience.
Their appeal lies in powerful vocals, strong musicianship, and the fusion of Japanese lyrics with catchy melodies.
In 2022, they celebrated their 15th anniversary with a successful commemorative live show, continuing to evolve and captivate many fans.
SCANDAL’s music is highly recommended for those seeking an energetic rock sound.
the four seasonskuriipuhaipe
Formed in 2001 and making their major debut in 2012, this four-piece rock band—commonly known by the abbreviation “Creep”—draws listeners in the more you listen.
With a captivating high-tone voice, lyrics that combine a unique worldview and keen perspective, and the high level of musicianship that delivers it all straight to the listener’s ears and heart, they’re a band that’s hard to resist.
Their distinctive yet vividly cinematic lyrics are addictive—a rock band any rock fan should check out.
more than wordsHitsuji Bungaku
Hitsujibungaku is a three-piece alternative rock band drawing attention for the beauty of their songs and lyrics that create a distinctive sense of floating.
They began in 2011 as a five-member cover band and made their major-label debut in 2015.
Their fourth album, POWERS, features tracks that showcase a wide range of musical styles.
In July 2018, they won the Runner-Up Grand Prize at Japan’s large-scale music awards, the CD Shop Awards 2018.
The band’s appeal lies in Moeka Shiozuka’s lyrics and compositions rooted in her unique worldview, Yurika Kasai’s high-register backing vocals and bass, and Hiroa Fukuda’s delicate yet powerful drumming.
Though their songs are in Japanese, they’re highly recommended for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in Hitsujibungaku’s singular musical world.
confessionMy Hair is Bad
My Hair is Bad is a three-piece rock band from Niigata Prefecture.
They enjoy explosive popularity, especially among young people.
Their greatest appeal is, without a doubt, their lyrics centered on love, written with raw candor.
They give voice to emotions that everyone feels but rarely expresses openly, earning strong support from many fans.
On top of that, their high level of musicianship is compelling—their songs feature numerous tight, striking riffs, and their performances are impulsive, passionate, and incredibly captivating.
