Originally, “menhera” is an abbreviation of “mental health” and refers to a state of being mentally unstable.
From there, the meaning broadened to also describe someone considered “heavy” in romantic relationships—people who feel too strongly about their partner or become overly possessive.
In this article, we’ll introduce bands that create songs you’ll want to listen to when you slip into a menhera mode.
Everyone experiences times when daily life wears down the heart, or when feelings for someone in love swell and become heavy.
We’ve carefully selected bands that will stay close to your heart in those moments, so please give their music a listen.
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- [Love Songs] Carefully selected Japanese tracks that comfort feelings of anxiety!
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- Unrequited love songs by bands. Japanese pop/rock love songs.
A band that plays “menhera” songs. Their appeal lies in lyrics that seep into a weakened heart (1–10).
I don’t need friends—die.Shinsei Kamattechan
There are days in everyday life when you just can’t shake off that heavy feeling.
On days like that, I want you to listen to the rock band Shinsei Kamattechan.
They became popular for lyrics that frankly express unspoken truths and personal struggles.
They’re also known for their wide musical range, from sparkling pop to lo-fi textures.
Vocals by Noko, which passionately underscore the bittersweet messages, are especially striking.
When you’re worn out by social life or romance, give their songs a listen.
Yanderu GirlfriendR shitei
The visual kei band R-Shitei captivates listeners with songs that are dazzling yet tinged with sadness.
Formed in 2008, they are known for signature tracks like “Doku Moru” and “Yanderu Kanojo.” Their lyrics, which portray honest feelings and aching vulnerability from deep within the heart, are sure to resonate.
While their glamorous, visual kei–style appearance is part of the appeal, be sure to focus on their solid musicianship as you listen.
Their music, dark yet somehow pop-leaning, will gently accompany your anxious heart.
Better than being alive.Syrup16g
In the J-ROCK scene from the 1990s to the 2000s, alternative rock was all the rage.
Among those, the rock band Syrup16g gained popularity with songs that depict the darker corners of the heart.
They’re known for signature tracks like “Reborn” and “My Song.” Their sound is characterized by a blend of ennui and edge, and the softly textured tones created with sound effects are part of their appeal.
Rather than forcing yourself to feel upbeat during tough times, this band is recommended if you’re looking for music that stays close to your heart.
Cassette Tape and Utility Knifemirukīuei
It’s tough when you don’t have anyone to talk to about the hazy frustrations you feel in school life, isn’t it? For people like that, I recommend Milkyway, a rock band from Osaka.
They perform under the concept of “No more growing up,” and are known for songs that give voice to the bittersweet emotions teens carry.
Among her songs, the one I especially want to recommend is Cassette Tape and Box Cutter, released in 2016.
It portrays a dark worldview from a uniquely student perspective, with catchy guitar sounds ringing out briskly.
Let yourself feel the passionate emotions woven into these songs that revolve around pain and wistfulness.
Kiss and FriendMy Hair is Bad
My Hair is Bad is a rock band from Niigata that thrashes out the frustrations of heartbreaking love with emotional performances.
Their simple, fast-paced guitar sound—distinctive of a three-piece band—has won them a strong following.
Known for songs themed around “love” and “life,” Tomomi Shiiki’s passionate vocals are sure to resonate.
If you’re struggling with the pain of a breakup, try listening to songs like “Sotsugyo” and “Makka.” They could be your gateway into the band’s music, which vividly portrays the end of bittersweet love.
Lemon piemakaroni enpitsu
Macaroni Enpitsu is a rock band known for songs that portray young people’s emotions in a true-to-life way.
They’re recognized for their wide musical range, from catchy pop to jazzy soul, and their humorous, UK rock–inspired playing technique is also part of their appeal.
Among their tracks, the one I recommend when you’re feeling down is Lemon Pie.
It’s included on Hope, released in 2020.
The song depicts a sweet-and-sour love story like a lemon pie, making it perfect to listen to when you’re lovesick.
love hotelkuriipuhaipe
Creephyp is a rock band known for portraying men’s and women’s views on love from a unique perspective.
They’re famous for signature songs like “HE IS MINE” and “Shiori.” These days they even close out rock festivals, so many of you may already know them.
While they turn the heavy feelings that come from caring deeply about someone into songs, they also boast strong musicianship.
Their nostalgic sound, reminiscent of kayōkyoku and folk, is another highlight.
Give them a listen when you’re thinking about someone dear and feel like, “I love them so much I’m about to lose my mind…”