Japanese bands recommended for junior high school students

You side meOdd Lazy

Odd Lazy 『You side me』

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!

SupermanSee You Smile

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

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.

Goodbye, tearsJi Enputi

The Empty – “Goodbye, Tears” Music Video

The Empty, a band from Kurume City, Fukuoka Prefecture.

Formed in 2019 by junior high school classmates, they’ve been winning over young listeners with down-to-earth lyrics and an energetic sound.

They kicked into full gear in 2021 with their first demo, “The Empty – 1st demo,” delivering exhilarating melodic punk rock on tracks like “Take Me Out” and “Seishun.” In 2024, they were selected for KBC Radio’s Power Play.

Recommended for anyone who wants to relive their youthful memories or get fired up with friends.

lonelySLACK

SLACK – lonely（Official Music Video）

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!

movementSpecialThanks

SpecialThanks / Movement [Official Music Video]

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!

PetalishSorry No Camisole

Sorry No Camisole – Petalish (Live Video)

Sorry No Camisole is an alternative band that unleashes destructive energy and raw sonics.

Formed in Tokyo in 2023, this five-piece draws from ’90s indie roots such as grunge and garage punk.

They debuted in 2024 with their first single, “Disgust / Petalish.” Blending punk’s explosive power with post-punk cool, their music is perfect for listeners seeking sounds unbound by convention.

Overdriveosage

osage – Overdrive [Music Video] (Theme song for BS-TBS Thursday Drama 23 'Spice.')

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.