2026: Next Break to Watch. Japanese Artists to Check Out Early

I knowammo

ammo – I Know – Live at BIGCAT

A three-piece band from Higashi-Osaka formed in 2018.

The name “ammo” is pronounced “Amo.” The members are Yusei Okamoto on vocals and guitar, Soma Kawahara on bass, and Taiga Nishioka on drums.

Their store-exclusive single “Neta-buri no Kimi e” sold out immediately, and on that momentum they launched nationwide distribution—proof of their industry-recognized talent.

Their sound also stands out for the way it lets you savor even the spaces between notes, a hallmark of three-piece bands.

Start with their staple live favorites and signature tracks “Korekkiri” and “Frontline.”

In Love with the Mirrorraisan

Praise – In Love with the Mirror

Reisan is a rising band attracting attention on the music scene.

Formed in December 2021, they’ve captivated many listeners with a unique sound that fuses rock and pop around a hip-hop core.

Their hallmark is CLR’s expressive vocals—interweaving rap and singing—paired with a powerful, full-bodied sound from the skilled members.

Their February 2024 EP, “PEAK TIME,” further broadened their musical range.

The nationwide one-man tour “NICE BUDDY” held in 2025 saw every show sell out on the same day tickets went on sale.

They’ve also been active beyond music, including a collaboration with Kasugai Confectionery’s “Mochira,” earning high praise from the media.

They’re a recommended band for listeners seeking new possibilities in music.

Don’t die!kocchi no kento

Don't die! / MV by Kocchino Kento

Kento Sugo, who performs under the name Kocchi no Kento, has been attracting a lot of attention since his 2023 release “Shinuna!” went viral on social media.

He possesses outstanding vocal ability—he even won the national a cappella competition two years in a row while in college.

Leveraging that skill, he delivers performances featuring wide melodic leaps and emotionally charged singing.

By the way, his older brother is actor Masaki Suda, and he’s even created a birthday song for him.

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Kepla / From Now On (Lyric Video)

Kepla is drawing attention with down-to-earth lyrics that resonate with listeners and a driving, high-speed sound.

Formed in September 2020, the four-piece rock band has a youthfully evocative backstory: all members are classmates from Tokyo Metropolitan Saginomiya High School.

They made their debut in July 2021 with the mini-album “Days of Youth,” achieving a remarkable milestone as its tracks surpassed 100,000 views on YouTube.

In September 2024, they made their major-label debut with EMI Records, fully blooming with the skills they honed during their indie days.

Another appeal is their fan-centered approach: the members themselves handle merch and jacket design, keeping a close connection with their audience.

Their songs, which feel like snapshots of fleeting moments of youth, feature fresh sensibilities and lyrics that evoke real empathy, steadily growing their fanbase—especially among younger listeners.

Sentimental KissShio Reira

Reira Shio - Sentimental Kiss [Official Music Video]

Reira Ushio is a rising singer-songwriter known for her distinctive worldbuilding and clear, crystalline vocals.

Drawing on her literary training at university, she’s gaining attention for meticulous word choice and rich musicality.

She debuted with a digital single in September 2021 and has continued to release melodic tracks.

In August 2023, she achieved her long-awaited major debut with Sony Music Labels.

A song used as BGM on an ABEMA dating show reached No.

1 on Spotify’s Viral Chart.

In August 2024, she released her first EP on CD, and in the fall she captivated fans nationwide with a Tokyo-Nagoya-Osaka tour and an acoustic tour.

A true all-rounder who handles everything from writing and composing to arranging and producing, she actively engages with fans on social media.

Her lyrics vividly capture the delicate emotions of youth, and her ear-catching melodies are sure to resonate with listeners.

Double Double FIGHT!CANDY TUNE

[MV] CANDY TUNE “Bai Bai FIGHT!”

The idol group CANDY TUNE, rapidly rising in popularity mainly on social media, is making waves in the music scene.

Formed in February 2023 from ASOBISYSTEM’s project KAWAII LAB., they began activities as a seven-member group and made their debut with the digital album “CANDY TUNE,” showcasing a wide musical range from classic idol pop to electropop.

With active updates on social media and catchy songs, they’ve shown remarkable growth—pulling off a successful one-man show at Zepp Shinjuku just eight months after their debut.

Their strengths lie in each member’s individual charm, well-balanced performances, and close connection with fans, making them a recommended group not only for idol enthusiasts but also for pop music fans.

Rock This Partytimelesz

Rock This Party

A group with a 13-year history has evolved into a new form.

Following reforms at their management company, they changed their name to timelesz and launched activities with an eight-member lineup by adding five new members to the original three.

While rooted in J-pop, their ambitious approach—venturing into dance music, R&B, and electropop—stands out.

Since their debut in 2011, they have produced numerous hit songs, earned Excellent Work Awards at the Japan Record Awards, and frequently ranked high on the Oricon charts.

Under the new structure, they are also looking to expand overseas and are actively engaging with fans via social media.

With powerful dance performances and vocal prowess that highlights each member’s individuality, they’re perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy next-generation entertainment.