From beautiful piano rock to intense loud rock! Bands with cool keyboards and synths.
Keyboards and synthesizers—ranging from piano rock to synth-pop and techno-pop—can be incorporated regardless of whether the band is a traditional rock outfit.
Adding them to guitar, bass, and drums instantly broadens a song’s expressive range! Many of you probably love tracks that feature keyboards, but it can be surprisingly hard to think of bands that actually have a keyboardist, right? So in this article, we’ll introduce plenty of bands with cool keyboard work.
Some play with piano sounds, others with distinctive synth tones—each band is different—so be sure to check out the songs from the bands we’re about to feature.
From beautiful piano rock to intense loud rock! Bands with cool keyboards and synths (1–10)
All of the YouthFujifaburikku
Fujifabric is a band where you can enjoy sophisticated keyboard tones that match their distinctive musical style.
Depending on the song, the result can be straightforward, or quirky with a touch of humor.
The keyboard is handled by Daisuke Kanazawa.
His marriage to Shiho Ochi of Superfly, a singer known for her soulful voice, made headlines.
Loversumika
The keyboard sound of sumika, a rock band from Kawasaki, Kanagawa, is incredibly pleasant.
Formed in 2013, their first album, “Familia,” released in 2017, ranked 5th on the Oricon weekly chart.
sumika’s appeal lies above all in their genre-defying musicality, and they’ve produced many memorable tracks such as “Fukkatsu no Jumon” and “Lovers.” Highly recommended if you like pop and catchy songs!
I LOVE…Ofisharu Higedan Dism
Official HIGE DANDism is a piano rock band from Tottori Prefecture that rose to national fame through theme songs for TV dramas and commercials.
Their sound—at times fiery, at times beautifully resonant—is truly one of a kind.
Songs centered on the theme of love, such as “I LOVE…” and “Pretender,” are beloved by listeners across generations.
Perhaps it’s the presence of the piano, but within their stylish tracks there’s a palpable warmth.
And the clear, soaring vocals of keyboardist and lead singer Satoshi Fujihara are simply irresistible.
sonachineTempalay
Tempalay delivers a fresh musical experience with their original sound and poetic lyrics.
Formed in 2014, this three-piece band has drawn attention for artistry that transcends the boundaries of rock.
In 2015, they released their debut EP, “Instant Hawaii.” Their appearances at FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL and the Ringo Music Festival became talking points, and their musicality has been highly praised both in Japan and abroad.
With albums like “from JAPAN” and “With Love from the 21st Century,” they continue to captivate fans with every release.
If you’re looking to explore highly artistic music, be sure to check them out.
SesameKroi
An addictive blend of energetic guitar lines and synthesizers creates a compelling mix.
Formed in 2018, Kroi has drawn attention for its unique sound that fuses diverse genres like R&B, funk, and rock.
In June 2021, they made their major-label debut with the album LENS.
Each of the five members brings talents in areas like fashion and design, giving them strong influence across broader culture.
In their songwriting, they start with demos created by Uchida and each member contributes ideas, striving to spark new chemical reactions.
Highly recommended for those seeking free-spirited, playful music!
ShaminamiJenīhai
Speaking of Genie High, since members include Kazutoyo Koyabu and Cocoon’s Kukki!, some people might see them as a “band run by comedians.” However, with Takashi Niigaki—also known as a composer—on keyboards, their piano sound has a distinctive originality that evokes elements of contemporary music.
Their taste sets them apart from the typical image of a rock band—impressive, as expected.
I can’t forget it.Sakanakushon
Sakanaction is a crossover band known not only for “Wasurerarenai no” but also for “Shin Takara-jima” and “Yoru no Odoriko.” They’ve often been featured in commercials, so many people may already know them.
Centered around vocalist Ichiro Yamaguchi, their music is both catchy and innovative—a key part of their appeal.
They’ve released many tracks that you’ll want to put on repeat after just one listen.
The keyboardist is Emi Okazaki, who was reportedly invited to join the band by Yamaguchi when they worked at the same part-time job.