Masterpieces of Japanese music that delve into various social issues, such as war and environmental problems

New GodREBEL BLUE

New God – REBEL BLUE

This is a politically charged song by the punk rock band REBEL BLUE, formed around Ken Kato.

It became the theme song for director Yutaka Tsuchiya’s film “Atarashii Kamisama” (The New God).

Although it’s very rock-oriented, it’s also easy to listen to, so I’d like to recommend it to everyone.

Sad rain falls on ChernobylDragon Ash

Sad Rain Falls on Chernobyl – Dragon Ash

This is a track included as the fifth song on Dragon Ash’s first album, “The Day Dragged On.” Although they’re strongly associated with hip-hop, this song is full-on rock with a Blue Hearts-style riff.

The relatively monotone, roaring vocal delivery captures a melancholic mood with exquisite precision.

Born in a leap yearSasaguchi Sōon Hāmonika

Sasaguchi So-on Harmonica “Born in a Leap Year” MV

A song by Sasaguchi So-on Harmonica, known as a once-in-300-million-years rare musician.

It’s a folk song with a profound thematic depth that makes you reflect on how the present exists through various histories.

The fact that Sasaguchi wrote this song even before the Great East Japan Earthquake speaks to his talent.

Younger Brother of the Vast SkyFukurai Suzuko

Okuzora no Otōto (Boogie Woogie Ver.)

A song that delicately portrays a family’s feelings during wartime was featured on NHK’s morning drama series Boogie Woogie.

Sung by Suzuko Fukurai, the piece expresses her thoughts for her brother on the battlefield as well as the anxieties and worries of everyday life.

Included on the album Suzuko Fukurai Masterpieces released in December 2023, it can be enjoyed alongside six cover tracks of Shizuko Kasagi’s songs.

Imbued with the sentiments of those who lived through war, this work calls attention to the importance of peace.

It’s a song we especially recommend to those who want to feel the bonds of family and a wish for peace.

ChernobylKatō Tokiko

Chernobyl - Tokiko Kato's work - cover

This is an anti-nuclear song by singer-songwriter Tokiko Kato, written in response to the Chernobyl disaster in the Soviet Union.

It’s a quiet piece, but it movingly conveys the feelings of people who can no longer return to their hometowns due to radioactive contamination.

The expressiveness is remarkable.

Horse Ridingthe HIATUS

the HIATUS – Horse Riding [with Japanese subtitles] (Music Video)

Opening with a majestic acoustic guitar tone, this piece is a sweeping epic that feels as if it’s racing through the great currents of history.

The earnest wish to “break the cycle of repeated conflict and protect peaceful days” comes through vividly in both the music and the visuals.

Released in July 2013 by the HIATUS, this track is the title song of an EP that reached No.

10 on the Oricon charts.

The addition of new member Ichiyo Izawa enriches the sound with the timbre of piano.

Even as your heart aches at the world’s injustice, this song is sure to kindle a strong light within you as you take a step toward tomorrow.

The sky of Hiroshimasadamasashi

Hiroshima Sky by Masashi Sada

Created in 1987 and included on commemorative albums such as “Gekko,” this work is imbued with a prayer for peace.

Masashi Sada, a native of Nagasaki, composed the song based on his aunt’s experience as a Hiroshima bombing survivor, rendering the tragedy through quiet acoustic sounds and a poignantly transparent vocal that leaves a strong impression.

It is performed without fail at the annual concert held in Nagasaki on August 6.

You can sense Sada’s characteristic sense of mission to pass historical truth on to future generations.

Precisely because memories of war are fading in the present day, this is a masterpiece to which we should listen closely.

Take a moment to reflect quietly on the preciousness of peace.