[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!
- A masterpiece of Japanese mix-genre music. Recommended popular songs.
- Band Rankings Popular Among People in Their 40s [2026]
- [2026] Masterpieces of Melodic Hardcore: A roundup of popular tracks, old and new
- [J-Pop] From Rising Stars to Legends! Japan’s Must-Listen Alternative Rock Bands
- [Definitive] An introduction to Western mixture rock: a roundup of recommended classic tracks
- Band Rankings Popular with Women [2026]
- From rock numbers to dance tunes! Cool songs of the Reiwa era
- Dance music that was popular among Gen Z. A song that went viral.
- [Anison × Rock] A compilation of anime songs performed by rock bands
- A roundup of Japanese loud rock bands: the appeal of ferocious riffs + more
- [J-Rock] Timeless masterpieces that colored the 1990s. Nostalgic hit songs.
- Hype to the max! Party songs recommended for the Yutori generation
- [Western Music] Both Speed and Bittersweet Feels! Recommended Melodic Hardcore/Punk Bands [2026]
[Rock × ___] A Roundup of Japanese Mixture Rock Bands [2026] (21–30)
Jesus My TeacherSABANNAMAN
SABANNAMAN is a band formed in 2012.
Their sound and songs, reminiscent of Western rap rock, have generated a lot of buzz.
In 2015, they performed at Fuji Rock, making them one of the most talked-about young acts right now.
While rooted in overseas rock influences, they blend in a keen sense of pop and have established a unique style.
ORCA FORCERED ORCA
RED ORCA is a band led by Nobuaki Kaneko—who is active not only in music but also as an actor—and has been active since 2019.
It was originally formed by members who gathered to create Kaneko’s solo work.
Their distinctive and powerful sounds come together to reveal an artistic sonic world where stillness and motion intertwine, far from mere noise.
If you’re looking to enjoy something new, definitely give them a listen.
They’ll guide you to a new frontier of mixture rock.
[Rock × ___] Roundup of Japanese Mixture Rock Bands [2026] (31–40)
Current destructionSPYAIR
It might strike you as an overly intense mixture song, but each track is neatly structured.
Some are easy-to-listen, vocal-driven songs, while others blend in shouts and deliver heavy performances.
They’re a young band brimming with a variety of possibilities.
red-orangeACIDMAN
ACIDMAN is a three-piece rock band that has been active since 1997.
Their songs are highly appealing for their style that weaves rock together with jazz, bossa nova, funk, and R&B.
In the past, they even toured with bands like RIZE and 10-FEET—groups that play mixture rock—on a tour called Trinity Trip.
It’s an emotional and stylish take on mixture rock.
KIDS WARThe John’s Guerrilla
Formed in 2004, The John’s Guerrilla is a five-piece rock band.
Their signature style features heavy rock sounds with rap-delivered lyrics brimming with punk spirit.
This track gives a notably aggressive impression, and it’s one I’d love to see performed live.
A life-sized love songAqua Timez
When you hear ‘mixture (mixture rock),’ you might picture an intense band sound, but Aqua Timez is also one of the mixture bands.
With accessible melodies, gentle lyrics, and song-centric tracks that express women’s feelings, I’d bet most young people have heard at least one of their songs.
DNAJeisonzu
If you’re looking for a more mature, darker-leaning nu-metal/mixture band, I recommend The Jasons.
They formed in 1993 around HIROKI, the guitarist of Dragon Ash.
Since some of the other members had played in a rockabilly band, those elements are incorporated into their songs as well.
Another hallmark is their uncommon use of an upright bass for a mixture band.
In 1997, after their vocalist left, they continued their activities under a new band name, STROBO.
Be sure to check out both bands!