Japanese rock/pop bands recommended for men

AngelRyuubensu

Rubens – Angel-san (Music Video)

The Tokyo-based alternative rock band Rubens brings together the gentleness of J-pop with the raw allure of an alternative sound.

Since 2022, they’ve been releasing primarily via digital platforms.

The band features Serena’s delicate vocals and poetic lyrics, Etsu’s melodious guitar, Mary on bass, and Matsumaru’s dynamic drumming.

True to their name, inspired by the Baroque master painter, they are marked by high artistry and richly expressive emotion.

They’re a band that strikes a chord with listeners seeking a fresh jolt.

nineteenRusan’chiman

Ressentiment 'Nineteen'

Ressentiment is an alternative rock band that emerged from the light music club of Tokyo Metropolitan Musashigaoka High School.

Their name embodies the drive to aim higher by channeling defiance toward rulers and the powerful.

Starting with their 2020 demo EP “Kazaana Akeru,” they have actively released work including their first mini-album “memento.” Their sound shows the influence of math rock, and is characterized by lyrics and vocals that capture raw, unfiltered emotion.

They deliver music that resonates deeply with those who feel a sense of dissatisfaction or loneliness in their present circumstances.

Two Red Starskinmokusei

Osmanthus fragrans 'Two Red Stars' OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

Formed in Sagamihara, the pop-rock band Kinmokusei has long captivated many fans with their melodic sound.

Making their major debut in 2001, they brought a fresh breeze to the music scene with an urban, stylish sensibility and a wistful vocal style reminiscent of Showa-era kayōkyoku.

In 2002, they released a smash-hit single and even performed at that year’s NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen, marking a series of brilliant achievements.

With frontman Shungo Ito’s literary lyrics and a refined musicality that incorporates elements of city pop, their allure remains undimmed today.

Blending delicate sensitivity with urban sophistication, their songs are recommended for listeners who cherish bittersweet memories of love or who favor adult romance in music.

riskKroi

Kroi – risk [Official Video]

Kroi is gaining attention for their musical style rooted in Black music, blending a wide range of genres including R&B, funk, soul, rock, and hip-hop.

Formed in February 2018, they rose to prominence by winning an audition out of roughly 3,000 groups and performing at Summer Sonic, among other remarkable achievements.

They made their major debut with the album “LENS” in June 2021, and in January 2024 held a one-man show at the Nippon Budokan in Tokyo.

Each member brings a different musical background, drawing influence from a wide array of artists such as Red Hot Chili Peppers, Lauryn Hill, and Earth, Wind & Fire.

They’re a five-piece band perfect for music fans seeking a unique, genre-crossing mixture sound that transcends scene boundaries.

Burning Friday NightLucky Kilimanjaro

Burning Friday Night

Lucky Kilimanjaro fuses city pop and R&B with dance music to create a refined groove.

Formed in 2014 by six members who met in their university light music club, they made their major debut in November 2018.

Their nonstop, seamlessly connected live performances and soundscapes that blend nostalgia with freshness are key attractions.

They’ve appeared at many major summer festivals, making their presence felt at events like SUMMER SONIC, FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL, and ROCK IN JAPAN.

With 80s-inspired, synth-driven sounds and lyrics that carry a positive message, they deliver danceable music that fits into everyday life.

Their cohesive, DJ set–like live shows are a must-see, making them a rising act recommended for both dance music fans and lovers of band-driven sounds.

Summer IllusionOmoinotake

Omoinotake / Summer Illusion [Official Music Video]

Omoinotake is a three-piece band from Matsue, Shimane Prefecture, taking flight onto the global stage.

With the unique lineup of keyboards, bass, and drums, their sound is strongly influenced by Black music.

They made their major-label debut in November 2021 with the album EVERBLUE on Sony Music Labels.

Their street performance in Shibuya drew over 500 people, and they’ve gained major attention with their songs featured as TV drama themes.

They are close with members of Official HIGE DANDism, and all three were born in 1992, making them a same-year classmates band.

Their appeal lies in clear falsetto vocals and arrangements brimming with an easy, infectious groove, as they continue to pursue a fresh, genre-defying musicality.

They’re a perfect fit not only for R&B fans but also for any music lover seeking something new.

Tokyo feat. Mamiko Suzuki, Skaaiyonawo

yonawo – tokyo feat. Mamiko Suzuki, Skaai (Official Video)

The four-piece band yonawo from Fukuoka crafts a one-of-a-kind sound that fuses R&B, soul, jazz, and hip-hop.

With Shota Araya’s gentle vocals and the exceptional musicianship of every member, they create songs that resonate deeply with listeners.

They began their full-scale musical activities in 2017 and made their major-label debut in 2019.

Word of mouth about their high musicality spread, steadily expanding their fan base.

Their advanced performance skills and live shows have been highly praised across music media, and they command a strong presence at festivals nationwide.

In February 2025, they will release an ambitious work featuring Mamiko Suzuki and Skaai.

They’re recommended not only for R&B fans but also for anyone seeking genre-defying music.