[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 × ___] Roundup of Japanese Mixture Rock Bands [2026] (31–40)
It’s not me unless it’s meGesu no Kiwami Otome.
While it might be associated with intense music and crossover styles, there’s also a decidedly stylish band sound here.
Just when you think it’s keeping a steady beat, the song suddenly shifts direction, only to return to form in the chorus.
It doesn’t sound like rap, but the straight-ahead rhythm makes you want to move your body.
Hajikero V10Asanami 25
Manabi 25 is a mixture rock band that debuted in April 2002 with “SONS OF THE SUN.” The song was featured in Otsuka Pharmaceutical’s Pocari Sweat commercial and reached No.
4 on the Oricon Weekly Chart.
It was also certified Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of Japan.
Their lyrics carry positive, hopeful messages, and their diverse sound transcends the boundaries of mixture rock.
In October 2002, they released the album “MUSIC BOX.” They have since put out a remix album and a best-of compilation, captivating many listeners with their wide-ranging musicality.
I BelieveSUNSET BUS
SUNSET BUS is a three-piece rock band from Osaka.
Their appeal lies in bright songs rooted in melodic punk, infused with elements of ska and reggae.
This track has a wonderful contrast between the light ska rhythm and the distinctive two-beat of melodic hardcore.
They’re a band whose live shows are a lot of fun.
a single flowerHIGH and MIGHTY COLOR
A band with a twin-vocal lineup—female lead vocal and male supporting vocal—that was rare in Japan.
They blended shouts and screamo into accessible melodies, incorporated intense rap, rapidly gained popularity among younger generations, and came to be frequently used for tie-in songs.
RUSHUZUMAKI
UZUMAKI, a band from Osaka that performed under the name Udomaki from 1996 to 2004.
At the time of their debut, they were active as domestic pioneers of rap metal—already popular overseas and gradually gaining recognition in Japan.
Their heavy sound skillfully incorporates hip-hop elements, and it still feels fresh even today.
Highly recommended for fans of overseas bands and for anyone who loves loud music at its core, such as hardcore and metal.
[Rock × ___] Compilation of Domestic Mixture Rock Bands [2026] (41–50)
Last wordChased by Ghost of HYDEPARK
Commonly known as CGH (Chased), they are a band active mainly in the Kansai region since April 2015.
Influenced by 90s and 00s mixture rock, they are a new-generation mixture band that has evolved in their own way.
Still a young group with twin guitars and a rock-based sound that shifts fluidly, they’re expected to adopt new styles and make further strides.
Their reach is expanding, with airplay on numerous radio stations including overseas and awards in music auditions held nationwide.
WORD PLAYNUBO
NUBO is a five-piece band from Yokohama that has been active since 2002.
Their music is captivating, rooted in rock while incorporating elements of punk, Latin, funk, and dance.
The rap that makes use of their twin vocalists is also highly distinctive.
Committed to being a live band, they’re known for intense, passionately charged performances.