A roundup of Japanese loud rock bands: the appeal of ferocious riffs + more
As the name suggests, “loud rock” is a term used as a catch-all for rock that features heavy, intense riffs and phrases, and it began gaining popularity mainly from the late ’90s into the 2000s.
In addition to aggressive riffs and phrases, loud rock often incorporates vocals like death growls and harsh screams, as well as rap.
At the same time, it’s not uncommon to have choruses with beautiful clean tones and approachable melodies; the coexistence of calm and intensity is one of loud rock’s key appeals.
Because of this breadth, loud rock is considered difficult to define, but in this article we’ll take a broader view of the genre and introduce a bunch of recommended bands!
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- A song by a rock band bursting with exhilarating energy and a sense of speed that you want to listen to in the summer.
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The Appeal of Intense Riffs + More: A Roundup of Japanese Loud Rock Bands (21–30)
Keep on A, B, and C-ingXmas Eileen
Formed in 2013 and beginning live performances in 2014, Xmas Eileen is a mysterious masked collective.
Their songs are captivating for their mixed style that blends a variety of elements.
There’s no doubt they’re poised to become a leading force in the loud rock scene.
Close to that lie.Memai SIREN
A five-piece lyrical emo rock band formed in Fukuoka in 2012.
The worldview painted by vocalist Kyotera’s lyrics, combined with the band’s straightforward, intense tracks, expresses the sense of stagnation and suffocation in everyday life, as well as the powerlessness that shrouds them.
As spokespeople for those who lament reality, they have gained fervent support from many young people who feel a sense of “loneliness.”
The Appeal of Intense Riffs + α: A Roundup of Domestic Loud Rock Bands (31–40)
Here For YouThe Winking Owl
Formed in Gunma in 2010 around Luiza, a half Romanian–half Japanese vocalist, and guitarist Yoma, who has performed at the US summer festival VANS Warped Tour.
Building on US/UK emo rock and elevating it into universally appealing J-pop, they weave in programmed sounds that color their world, establishing overwhelming originality.
They deliver a next-level sound never before heard in Japan.
ECHOESkanojo in the display
A six-piece band from Fukuoka formed around the theme of a new frontier in J-ROCK—neither metal, loud rock, hardcore, screamo, nor emo.
They began activities in 2010 and have consistently released music.
While none of their tracks have been tie-ins, the band is characterized by catchy melodies reminiscent of anime songs and a pleasing, accessible sound.
Another notable point is their use of names from JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure in song and CD titles.
shine’s awayNext
A trash melodic hardcore band based in Yonezawa City, Yamagata Prefecture.
While their songs are bursting with speed, their skillfully crafted band ensemble is a defining feature, delivering music that fires up the body of the listener and makes you want to move and let it all out.
TSUBASA TRIGGERLOKA
Formed in 2012 around former supe member Kihiro, the band includes ex-members of SEX MACHINEGUNS and Wizard.
LOKA means “world” in Sanskrit, and their activities are not limited to Japan.
SUNDAY SILENCEANGRY FROG REBIRTH
Formed in 2010, this band is active mainly in Japan’s live house scene.
At times they deliver clear, orthodox melodies, paired with intense, high-speed shouts.
Their hallmark is the exquisite blend of these two elements across many songs.
You can’t help but move your body and want to hype up with a crowd—this is loud rock at its finest!