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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] (21–30)
I cut the pathbaroque
Baroque, the band that opened a new era for visual kei rock, has drawn attention with a distinctive sound that transcends genre boundaries since their formation in 2001.
Just two years and three months after their major-label debut in 2003, they performed at Nippon Budokan, setting a record as the fastest ever.
Their literally “mixture” style—fusing diverse musical elements—captivates many listeners with a freshness that goes beyond conventional visual kei.
In 2012, they released three singles simultaneously, breaking exceptional Oricon chart records for an indie artist.
Baroque’s music is recommended for fans who seek free expression unconstrained by genre.
JETKNOCK OUT MONKEY
KNOCK OUT MONKEY is a four-piece band known as the “Rowdy Monkeys of Kobe.” You often see their name at festivals and circuit events! They formed in 2001 and have been active with the current lineup since 2009.
Their trademark is a loud sound, but depending on the track, you can enjoy pieces with a hip-hop vibe or a reggae feel.
Overall, their music is refreshing and easy on the ears, making them a great entry point for people just starting to get into mixture rock.
Take itbabamania
Babamania is a mixture rock band formed in 1992 that made its major debut in 2000.
Centered on twin vocals by Genki and Mari and Genki’s rap, their appeal lies in a unique sound that blends rock with a wide range of genres such as funk and pop.
The album B.G.M., released in September 2001, came at a time when their profile was rising rapidly, including a performance at FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL ’01 and appearances in advertising campaigns.
It’s a work that captures the essence of the band, fusing the raw energy honed through their vigorous live shows at Shibuya Yaneura with the refined sound they developed after their major-label debut.
Highly recommended for those seeking a free-spirited musicality unconstrained by genre.
GUNSHOTSSiM
SiM is a reggae-punk band leading Japan’s loud scene.
While they bill themselves as reggae-punk, in recent years they’ve continued to evolve by incorporating not only reggae and ska but also EDM elements like dubstep.
Their appeal lies in aggressive tracks that blend a hardcore rock foundation with a variety of musical influences.
Keep on A, B, and C-ingXmas Eileen
On Christmas in 2013, a mysterious masked group suddenly appeared: Xmas Eileen.
Their signature is a new style that blends loud rock with elements like hip-hop and EDM.
Once you listen, you’ll immediately sense this mixed flavor—they cross genres brilliantly.
BRUSH UPSPARK!!SOUND!!SHOW!!
When it comes to contemporary-feeling mixture bands, SPARK!!SOUND!!SHOW!!—aka Susashi—tops the list.
Formed in Osaka in 2009, they blend punk, hardcore, hip-hop, electro, and more so seamlessly that it’s impossible to pull the parts apart, creating a sound that’s entirely their own.
It’s not just the sonics—the wordplay in their lyrics and their live performances are addictive across the board, and you’re bound to get completely hooked.
By all means, take a trip into the Susashi world at least once.
GO!!!FLOW
Although FLOW is strongly associated with “music of youth,” they’re a long-beloved mixture rock band.
Since forming in 1998, they’ve provided many anime theme songs, earning support not only from fans of mixture rock itself but also from a wider audience.
Their catchy melodies and upbeat lyrics are energizing no matter when you listen.
In recent years, they’ve evolved by incorporating a broader range of musical elements, so whether you listened to them back then or are new to them, take this chance to rediscover their appeal!