[Definitive] An introduction to Western mixture rock: a roundup of recommended classic tracks
If you find yourself instinctively reacting when you see the term “mixture rock,” you’re probably, like me, a Western music fan who came of age in the ’90s.
“Mixture rock” refers literally to a blend of various genres—rock and metal mixed with hip-hop, funk, Latin music, reggae, and more—but it’s actually a Japanese-made term.
Overseas, similar sounds are labeled as rap metal, funk metal, crossover, and the like.
In this article, we’ve compiled quintessential tracks that Japan would categorize as “Western mixture rock.”
If you’re a younger music fan, be sure to experience that streetwise vibe of the ’90s to early ’00s!
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[Classic] An Introduction to Western Mix-Metal/Rap Rock. A roundup of recommended masterpieces (21–30)
LithiumEvanescence
A song about deep sorrow and the loss of inner comfort.
It was released as a single in 2007 by the American rock band Evanescence.
The track reached No.
1 on the UK charts and became a hit in countries such as Italy and Spain.
CalifornicationRed Hot Chili Peppers
A song about the “decline of society,” describing how the world has become very superficial and plastic, like California.
It was released as a single by the Red Hot Chili Peppers in 2000.
The track was heavily influenced by The Cure’s song “Carnage Visors.”
[Classic] An Introduction to Western Mix-Ture Rock: A Summary of Recommended Masterpieces (31–40)
The Way You Like ItAdema
A song by Adema, a nu metal band formed in 2000 in California, USA.
It sings about how people change as fame rises.
It was released as a single in 2001 from their self-titled debut album.
The music video features Chester Bennington and Joe Hahn of Linkin Park.
Last ResortPapa Roach
A song that sings about suicide.
Lead vocalist Jacoby Shaddix described it as “a cry for help from someone who feels dissatisfied and confused.” It was Papa Roach’s first single released on a major label, DreamWorks.
Bring ‘Em DownLostprophets
A song released as a single in 2012 by the alternative rock band Lostprophets.
Keyboard player Jamie Oliver described it as “a very rebellious song.” It was first performed during a warm-up show for the 2011 V Festival.
It’s Been AwhileStaind
A song released as a single in 2001 by the American rock band Staind.
It reached No.
1 on the U.S.
charts and became a hit in countries such as the Netherlands and the United Kingdom.
The music video was directed by Fred Durst, the frontman of Limp Bizkit.
DriveIncubus
A song released as a single by Incubus in 2000.
It is about fear.
All the artwork in the music video was created over more than 50 hours by lead vocalist Brandon Boyd and drummer Jose Pasillas.