[2026] Stylish songs that resonate with men: Tracks from artists whose sense truly shines

VinylKing Gnu

King Gnu – Vinyl

King Gnu is a four-piece rock band that fuses diverse genres such as rock and jazz, continually staying at the forefront of the J-POP scene.

This track, included on their album “Tokyo Rendez-Vous,” released in October 2017, has been featured as the theme song for PERSOL Tempstaff’s commercials since January 2018.

The groove created by the primal drums bursting in from the intro and the sinuous, rolling bassline is truly outstanding.

The lyrics, which feel like a cry to shed one’s façade and confront things in their essence, possess a compelling power that stirs the listener’s heart.

The song is crafted to let you fully savor vocalist Satoru Iguchi’s raw yet taut singing, and its sound—charged with that initial, explosive impulse—is irresistibly appealing.

DRESSING ROOMnatori

natori – DRESSING ROOM

Among their stylish tracks that shine with a one-of-a-kind sense, the one I especially recommend was released in February 2025.

This song lets you savor the exhilaration of breaking free from the constraints of daily life and the gaze of others, dancing the night away with your own steps.

With Shin Sakiura on arrangement, the cool, groovy sound pleasantly sets your body in motion.

The music video also weaves in a connection to the hit song “Friday Night,” adding a narrative layer to enjoy.

It’s perfect for a night drive or whenever you want to immerse yourself in sleek, stylish music—be sure to give it a listen.

lovesicknesstsubakiya shijuusou

Tsubakiya Quartet – Love Sickness

This is a song by Tsubakiya Quartet that exudes a glossy, slightly decadent mood.

The melody hints at the influence of classic Japanese pop (kayōkyoku), intertwining with vocalist Yuji Nakada’s sultry voice to create a unique world of its own.

The track depicts both the exhilaration of being swept up in love and the poignant moment of snapping back to reality, drawing you in with its precarious balance.

Released as a single in August 2007, it also served as the opening theme for Iwate Menkoi TV’s “BEATNIKS.” It was later included on the album “TOKYO CITY RHAPSODY.” It’s a cool, mature number that’s perfect for a nighttime drive or for solitary contemplation.

TOKYONulbarich

Nulbarich – TOKYO (Official Music Video)

Centered around singer-songwriter JQ, Nulbarich is a band that operates without fixed members.

Their signature is an urban sound grounded in R&B and neo-soul, but the track I’m introducing here has a special background—it’s a song JQ wrote before forming the band.

Released in January 2021, it sings of the sense of entrapment felt in an opaque society and the hope to keep looking forward nonetheless.

Its unadorned lyrics are likely to resonate with many listeners.

The sophisticated melody riding on the groove is perfect for those moments when you want to step away from the rush of everyday life and face yourself.

naporiVaundy

napori

Vaundy, who has garnered attention for his modern musical sensibility and proven his talent as a creator, delivers a track from his acclaimed May 2020 release “strobo” that delicately captures the fleeting tenderness and comfort of intimate moments with a lover.

Its chill sound and whisper-like vocals create a stylish yet bittersweet mood.

Starting in September 2021, the song was also featured in a commercial for Bourbon Alfort Mini Chocolate, helping it become a long-running hit.

It’s a number that makes you want to sink into the late night alone, showcasing the depth of Vaundy’s musicality.

SirenMukai Taichi

Taichi Mukai / Siren (Produced by tofubeats) [Official Music Video]

Singer-songwriter Taichi Mukai, who has gained popularity with songs that blend R&B with diverse styles like alternative and electronic, teamed up with producer tofubeats to create this stylish track about the push and pull of romance.

It portrays the true feelings hidden behind smiles and the thrilling psychological games between men and women—depictions so real that many listeners, especially men, may find themselves taken aback.

The contrast between the modern beat and the faintly nostalgic sound is exquisite.

Released digitally in advance in May 2018, this song opens the EP “LOVE.” Its urban groove will elevate your everyday life into a more refined, stylish space.

festivalFuji Kaze

Fujii Kaze – Matsuri（Official Video）

Fujii Kaze’s track shifts from flute tones that evoke a Japanese aesthetic to an urban beat that creates a smooth, satisfying groove.

The song overflows with a celebratory spirit, boldly proclaiming that life is a festival.

At the same time, the occasional melody that hints at a quiet loneliness is part of its charm.

The lyrics—about loving everything you have and savoring everyday life in its entirety—are sure to lift the listener’s spirits.

First released in March 2022, this lead track comes from the acclaimed masterpiece “LOVE ALL SERVE ALL,” which won the Grand Prize at the 15th CD Shop Awards in 2023.

It’s a stylish number that will brighten your musical life, perfect for boosting your mood or accompanying a drive.