A compilation of cool Japanese rock band songs. Recommended tracks for cover bands.
Whether you’ve just started playing an instrument or you’re in a band choosing songs for an upcoming live show, you might be thinking, “I want to play something cool!” In this article, we’ll introduce plenty of cool band songs.
We’ve gathered a variety of tracks—ones with cool vocals, ones with impressive instrumental performances, and more—so feel free to use this as a reference! Once you decide which song to play, all that’s left is to practice until you can perform it with style!
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Cool songs by Japanese rock bands: a roundup of recommended tracks for cover bands (91–100)
broad daylightKing Gnu
When you’re looking for songs to cover, King Gnu’s tracks are always tough because of vocalist Iguchi’s high-tone voice, right? But the instrumental parts are just as difficult—maybe even more so.
It might even be a good idea to have a female vocalist handle Iguchi’s parts! If you can pull off this funky, super-groovy song on top of that, it’s guaranteed to look cool.
It’s not something you can master overnight, but if your band is confident in your skills, definitely give it a try.
youthZa Hairouzu
This is a song by The High-Lows that portrays the brilliance and struggles of youth.
It vividly expresses young people’s emotions—school-day fights, romance, and the bonds with friends.
Set to a melodic punk sound, the bittersweet memories woven into the lyrics are especially striking.
Released in May 2000, it was also used as the theme song for the TV drama “Legendary Teacher.” It peaked at No.
8 on the Oricon charts.
Its energetic, youth-filled sound and relatable lyrics are its appeal, and it’s popular as a staple for cover bands.
It’s also a great pick for those just starting out with band performances.
SAWAA=
It captivates with a grand soundscape woven from electric textures and beautiful melodies.
Created by AA= to mark their 10th anniversary in 2018 and infused with their journey and determination to keep moving forward, this work fuses loud rock and industrial into a piece that is both raw and refined.
In the music video directed by filmmaker Shuichi Banba, Kokoro Shinozaki’s performance and the rapidly unfolding, high-velocity visual aesthetic brilliantly capture the song’s worldview.
It’s a track I strongly recommend to anyone who wants to experience the resolve of an artist who never stops challenging limits and the shape-shifting experimental spirit of their sound.
That’s The Way We UniteBACK DROP BOMB
An imaginative track where reggae rhythms intertwine with an intense sound that fuses hip-hop and hardcore.
Over powerful guitar riffs and explosive drum beats, rap and melodic vocals intersect, gripping the listener.
With strong themes of unity and moving forward, it overflows with positive energy.
Included on the album “Micromaximum,” this piece was originally released in 1999.
In March 2025, it was also produced as a 7-inch analog single to commemorate the band’s 30th anniversary, earning high acclaim as one of BACK DROP BOMB’s signature songs.
It’s perfect for anyone who wants to free their heart through the power of music or is seeking encounters with new sounds that transcend genre boundaries.
after songINNOSENT in FORMAL
A heartwarming mixture tune that gently paints the scenes on the way home after a live show, carried by a groovy rhythm.
INNOSENT in FORMAL’s signature soft melodies blend beautifully with striking rap, vividly expressing bonds with friends and memories.
Featured on the December 2020 album “INNOSENT 2 ~How to spend the night~,” this standout track was also selected as the ending theme for the TV anime Ikebukuro West Gate Park.
With wistful melodies intertwining with a powerful beat, it’s a song that sinks deep into the heart when you experience farewells with loved ones or encounters with something new.
Big mouthMissile Girl Scoot
From ska-inflected rhythms to ferocious nu-metal, Missile Girl Scoot’s whirlwind sound will blow music fans away.
With dual female vocals that alternately scream and sing—sometimes fierce, sometimes gentle—this track delivers a shocking opening to the album FIESTA!.
Released in February 2000, FIESTA! earned high praise as an ambitious work that weaves together ska, punk, hard rock, and more.
Its powerful messages of anger and conflict toward society, paired with a shape-shifting soundscape, embody the essence of mixture rock.
Highly recommended for those who want to push the possibilities of music and experience a bold, genre-crossing sound.
Light In DarkSABANNAMAN
This track captivates with its unique sound, fusing reggae rhythms and emotional melodies.
Paired with dreamy English lyrics, it showcases SABANNAMAN’s identity as a mixture rock band to the fullest.
Included on the September 2016 mini-album “Psychedelic Sox Funk,” the piece is an experimental work that incorporates diverse elements such as funk, rock, and punk.
At the live show held at Shibuya gee-ge.
in April 2025, it was performed on a blazing-hot stage that whipped the venue into a frenzy.
Seamlessly blending introspective lyrics with an explosive sound, this song is highly recommended for moments when you want to blow away everyday haze or invite a beam of light into your heart.