[Rock × ___] A roundup of Japanese nu-metal/rap-rock bands [2026]
When you hear the term “mixture rock,” what kind of genre comes to mind?
True to the word “mixture,” in the 1990s Japan began using the genre name “mixture rock” to collectively describe bands that, influenced by contemporary Western music, incorporated a wide array of styles—metal, hardcore, and punk blended with rap and funk or reggae, electronic sounds, and more.
While the term “mixture” itself isn’t heard as often today, more and more bands have inherited the spirit of mixture rock and are crossing over an even broader range of genres such as EDM, funk, jazz, and R&B.
In this article, we’ll introduce mixture rock bands active in Japan, taking a broad view that includes the new generation as well!
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[Rock × ___] A Roundup of Japanese Mixture Rock Bands [2026] (11–20)
ComplicationROOKiEZ is PUNK’D
Formed in 2006, ROOKiEZ is PUNK’D captivates a wide fanbase with their unique sound that exquisitely fuses punk, rock, and pop.
Their signature tracks have been featured as opening themes for popular anime, earning high acclaim both in Japan and abroad.
In August 2011, they launched their self-produced event “CHAIN REACTION,” enabling collaborations with a variety of artists.
This event serves as a platform to showcase ROOKiEZ is PUNK’D’s diverse musicality.
Their energetic live performances are another hallmark, and they actively tour domestically and internationally.
With strong affinity for anime and games and a rich crossover appeal, their music is recommended for listeners who want to enjoy sounds that transcend genre boundaries.
Big MouthMissile Girl Scoot
Have you heard of Missile Girl Scoot, a Japanese mixture rock band formed in 1994? Their appeal lies in a unique sound that fuses a variety of genres, including ska, punk, hip-hop, and hardcore.
Centered around two female vocalists, U-RI and JUNN, they made their major-label debut with Toshiba EMI in 1999.
They performed at events both in Japan and abroad, such as Fuji Rock Festival and the Busan Rock Festival in South Korea.
Although they disbanded once in 2003, they reunited in 2015.
Their innovative style and energetic performances have earned high praise from both fans and critics.
Highly recommended for anyone who wants to fully experience the allure of mixture rock.
calamityKnosis
Knosis is a project that pioneers a new frontier in metalcore.
Formed in 2023 by former Crystal Lake vocalist Ryo Kinoshita and Yoshimori from Survive Said The Prophet, they made a striking debut with their EP “The Shattering.” While rooted in metalcore, their sound is an experimental mix that weaves in nu metal, deathcore, and digital elements.
Kinoshita’s versatile vocal styles combined with Yoshimori’s meticulous production create a sound that is both heavy and cutting-edge.
Within just a year of forming, they successfully toured across Asia and Europe, rapidly expanding their fanbase.
With a genre-transcending approach, they are drawing attention as a group that showcases new possibilities for metalcore.
SHAMROCKUVERworld
UVERworld, which began activities in 2000 and has since grown into a major band.
Vocalist TAKUYA∞’s overwhelming voice and the performances that reveal a different side with each song have earned them popularity among music fans across many genres.
At the same time, their tracks are unified by that distinct UVER color—that’s part of their charm.
From flashy rock numbers to catchy, poppy tunes, they embody many forms of music and show the fun of a true mixture.
The toughest, absolute No. 1FEEL SO BAD
FEEL SO BAD is a legendary band formed by studio musicians active mainly in the Being scene, centered around Daria Kawashima.
In 1996, their theme song for the popular anime Hell Teacher Nube, “Baribari Saikyo No.1,” became a hit and brought them sudden attention.
They continued to work energetically, astonishing fans by pulling off an unprecedented feat: releasing albums for 12 consecutive months from 1999 to 2000.
With energetic sounds and profound lyrics, FEEL SO BAD offers a truly “mixture” musicality that transcends the boundaries of rock—perfect for those seeking genre-defying music.
flustered; frantic; in a tizzyORANGE RANGE
ORANGE RANGE is a five-member rock band from Okinawa.
Their rap laid over a cool band sound is highly memorable.
Recently, they’ve also released tracks that incorporate techno elements, making them a true crossover band that blends various styles.
For those born in the late ’80s to early ’90s, this song might feel especially nostalgic.
[Rock × ___] A Roundup of Japanese Mixture Rock Bands [2026] (21–30)
FLY AGAINMAN WITH A MISSION
The band MAN WITH A MISSION, known as MAN WITH, immediately drew attention from their debut with their novel look—wolf heads on human bodies.
The more you watch them, the more endearing they seem, and many people have become captivated by the contrast with the coolness of their live performances.
For first-time listeners, we recommend upbeat tracks like FLY AGAIN and the grand rock number Emotions.
In any case, make sure to experience their sound live at least once.