Japanese rock/pop bands recommended for men

It’s nothing.makaroni enpitsu

Macaroni Empitsu “It’s Nothing,” MV

They are known as a highly skilled band composed of members from Senzoku Gakuen College of Music.

Macaroni Empitsu have established a unique style that draws from a wide range of genres, including rock, hard rock, psychedelia, guitar pop, soul, and R&B.

Since forming in 2012, they have released numerous buzzworthy works such as the albums “HB” and “season,” and in November 2020 they made their major-label debut with their 6th mini-album, “Ai o Shirazuni Mahō wa Tsukaenai.” They have been active across many fields, providing theme songs for TV anime and dramas as well as music for commercials.

In December 2021, they won the Japan Record Awards’ Best New Artist.

Hattori’s emotional vocals, the high-level musicianship befitting conservatory-trained performers, and their diverse musicality have earned them support from a wide audience, from R&B fans to rock enthusiasts.

a fact of lifeFACT

FACT – a fact of life (Music Video)

FACT is a band that blends a wide range of genres—metal, emo, punk—into a distinctive sound.

Since forming in 1999, they have earned high acclaim both in Japan and abroad.

With all members taking on vocal duties, they craft a unique world through unconventional song structures and compositions with minimal repetition.

Their 2009 major-label debut album, FACT, sold over 50,000 copies in Japan.

In 2012, British guitarist Adam joined, evolving the lineup into a six-piece with triple guitars and twin vocals.

Although they disbanded in 2015, they reunited in December 2024 and began a new chapter.

Their innovative sound, which also incorporates elements of dance music and techno, is recommended for listeners seeking music unconstrained by genre.

FateOfisharu Higedan Dism

Official HIGE DANDism – Fate [Official Video]

Official HIGE DANDism, a four-piece piano pop band from Shimane Prefecture, began their journey by pursuing a fresh pop sound rooted in the members’ diverse musical backgrounds.

Building on J-pop and pop rock, they blend elements of Black music, soul, and even metal to craft a unique sonic world.

They released their indie album “Love and Peace Are Within You” in 2015 and made their major-label debut in 2018.

Soon after, they provided the theme song for Fuji TV’s prime-time Monday 9 p.m.

drama, quickly rising to prominence.

In 2019, they won Best New Artist Video at MTV VMAJ 2018, and their albums “Traveler” and “Editorial” earned back-to-back Grand Prizes at the CD Shop Awards.

Incorporating technopop elements as well, their music captivates many listeners with its pleasant melodies and distinctive vocals.

gorillaJin-Machine

Jin-Machine “Gorilla” MV full ver.

Jin-Machine is a one-of-a-kind visual kei band that blends humor with musicality.

While rooted in metal, they deliver a hybrid rock sound that skillfully incorporates everything from pop to enka.

Since launching full-scale activities in 2006, they’ve captivated audiences not only with their music but also with a wide range of performances including comedy skits, street arts, and even group gymnastics.

Centered around featuring16, the four-piece lineup—Rubera Kimura Kaere, Majorica Majorca Magical☆Himori, and Residence Suzuhane-178—showcases solid musicianship and uniquely inventive staging.

With the motto “We quickly borrow whatever’s selling,” they infuse current events and social issues into their songs, bringing a fresh breeze to the visual kei scene.

A must-listen for anyone seeking a fusion of music and comedy.

I want to be popular (with the opposite sex).Za Reonaruzu

Wanna Be Popular / The Rewonalds

Shining on Japan’s music scene, The Rewonalds is a distinctive band that blends a variety of genres around a rock core.

Formed in the early 2010s, they have steadily honed their craft on the indie circuit.

The members are graduates of music universities, bringing a broad musical background that spans from classical to jazz.

Their live performances—prioritizing visual production and a sense of unity with the audience—have been widely acclaimed, earning them indie music awards and multiple newcomer prizes.

Their live tours across Asia have drawn large crowds and garnered high praise from local media.

Each member actively pursues solo work and collaborations with other artists, showcasing their talents across music, fashion, art, and more.

They’re the perfect band for listeners who want to experience energetic yet delicate performances and a uniquely crafted world.

AnnieZūkaraderu

Annie

Zutomayodel, a three-piece rock band from Sapporo, Hokkaido, captivates many fans with lyrics that delicately depict everyday scenes and a pop-leaning sound.

The group began in 2015 under the name “Takanobu Yoshida and Zutomayodel,” then changed to their current name with the release of their September 2017 mini-album Live Forever.

The approachable melodies and empathetic lyrics crafted by Takanobu Yoshida were recognized when the band won first place in the Japanese music category of Tower Records’ “Tawake Recommen Award Artist of the Year 2018,” proving their talent.

Influenced by BUMP OF CHICKEN and Quruli, Yoshida’s songs are a perfect fit for music fans who value sincerity in their emotions.

The world calls it love.Sambomasutā

Sambomaster / The World Calls It Love MUSIC VIDEO

Armed with passionate messages and a powerful sound, Sambomaster has secured a firm place in Japan’s rock scene.

Formed in 2000, this three-piece rock band is known for an energetic, emotional rock style.

They made their major debut in 2003, and their song used as the ending theme for the drama Densha Otoko became a big hit.

In 2011, they created a support song for the Great East Japan Earthquake recovery efforts, and they’ve continued to captivate audiences at numerous festivals and live shows.

In 2023, their achievements in the music world were recognized with the Miura Jun Award.

Takashi Yamaguchi’s distinctive vocals and powerful stage performances are must-see, and their lyrics—often centered on life and love—resonate with many.

They’re highly recommended for anyone looking to experience music brimming with energy and intensity.