Japanese rock/pop bands recommended for men

Banzai ~ So glad I loved you ~Urufuruzu

Ulfuls – Banzai ~I'm Glad I Fell in Love~

This is a classic song by Ulfuls that leaves a strong impression thanks to Tortoise Matsumoto’s overwhelming vocal power.

When it comes to singing soul, he’s probably the best vocalist in Japan.

It’s not just about belting—this masterpiece conveys straightforward feelings for a lover, delivered with a voice that truly resonates.

All of the YouthFujifaburikku

Fujifabric – Youth of Everything

While their melodies and vocal style show the influence of Tamio Okuda, the band’s sound spans rock, pop, and punk.

As the title “All About the Young” suggests, their somewhat wistful lyrics are compelling and have been acclaimed as literary works in their own right.

You’re going way too fast.GARLIC BOYS

GARLICBOYS “You’re Going Way Too Fast” OFFICIAL LIVE VIDEO

A legendary rock band from Osaka.

Formed in 1985, they made their debut with the 1988 EP “Ninniku Night.” Their notable works include 1991’s “Psycho Thrash” and the 2004 album “Ju (ten).” Their musical style is broad, incorporating everything from thrash punk to melodic hardcore.

Recommended for those who enjoy high-speed sounds and performances full of humor.

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.

I Wanna Keep My Head UpTHUMB

I Wanna Keep My Head Up

A high-energy melodic hardcore band with a driving sound! Formed in 1997, the three-piece band THUMB was launched by former members of SHERBET at its core.

They released numerous dynamic tracks, including the albums “PEACE OF MIND” and “Let’s Grow Up Together.” In 2000, they proved their popularity by selling out tickets instantly for the “Nine Samurai” tour.

Although they disbanded in 2002, they reunited in 2014.

Their guitar sound—deftly weaving together power chords and harmonics—is absolutely irresistible.

Give flowersBlume popo

Blume popo 'Give Flowers' Music Video

Introducing the appeal of Blume popo, a five-piece alternative rock band from Shiga Prefecture.

All members have been friends since childhood, and the band officially kicked off in 2015.

Their hallmark is a sound that weaves together Miko Nomura’s fragile, translucent vocals with the band’s meticulously crafted ensemble, fusing elements of post-rock, shoegaze, and electronica.

In 2017, they won “RO JACK” at ROCK IN JAPAN FESTIVAL and went on to perform at the festival.

Give them a listen and you might find your senses awakened in a whole new way.

Rough LoveDNA STATION

DNA GAINZ / Rough Love (Official Music Video)

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.