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 (111–120)
TimerXmas Eileen
A track that fuses electronic elements with rock energy has been born from Xmas Eileen.
The masked members’ exhilarating, fast-paced sound and the twin vocalists’ distinctive voices weave an original performance that stirs the listener’s heart.
Included on their second album “DIS IS LOVE” since September 2017, this song was also chosen as the theme for the “Fading Cosmos” arc of the anime Monster Strike.
Blending a wide range of genres—loud rock, EDM, hip-hop, and reggae—its innovative sound is a must-hear for mix-genre fans.
Recommended for those seeking music that transcends genre boundaries and for anyone who wants to experience powerful live performances.
Cool songs by Japanese rock bands: a roundup of recommended tracks for cover bands (121–130)
BLOW BACK [HOUSE OF THE RISING FUNK]YKZ
![BLOW BACK [HOUSE OF THE RISING FUNK]YKZ](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/N2GBfvoa6uA/sddefault.jpg)
YKZ’s fusion rock explodes with shocking power and heat.
A deep, funky bassline intertwines exquisitely with skillful rap work, while a razor-edged guitar sound infused with Latin and funk elements crafts a unique sonic world.
Released in July 2002 by Sony Music Entertainment, this track is included on the album “THE FIRE THAT BURNS WITHIN” and was produced to commemorate the band’s confirmed appearance at that year’s FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL.
With its fierce sound and groovy rhythms, this is a highly recommended track for energetic workouts or whenever you want to elevate your mood.
Bingosukebōkingu
The sound that brilliantly fuses hip-hop’s groovy beats with punk rock’s energy made a striking impact with Skebo King’s debut single released in 1997.
Riding on a deep, heavy bassline and sharp scratching, the flow strikes a perfect balance of humor and cool.
In 2000, the track was included as a remixed version on their major-label debut album “SUPER BEST,” revived with fresh arrangements by Captain Funk.
It’s a standout not only for lighting up party scenes, but also as an exceptional soundtrack for a drive.
Enjoying near-legendary status, this track remains a shining landmark of the Japanese mixture-rock scene.
Cinderella syndromehisuterikku panikku
The fusion of sharp, fast-paced hardcore sound and lyrical melodies is exquisite.
The song structure that makes full use of Hysteric Panic’s triple-vocal setup is superb, and the multilayered harmonies woven by Tomo’s death growls, Tackrou’s high tones, and $EIGO’s clean vocals captivate listeners.
Released in April 2016, this track was also included on the album “Noisy Minority,” released in July of the same year, and its innovative sound—effortlessly transcending the boundaries between metalcore and J-pop—received high acclaim.
It’s a must-listen not only for fans of heavy music, but also for anyone eager to explore new musical possibilities.
Golden GraffitiROTTENGRAFFTY
A song whose cry, woven from anger and delicacy, hits you in the chest.
While searingly expressing distrust and rage toward society and a sense of loneliness, it also entrusts hope for the future to scenes bathed in the golden hues of dusk.
Released as a new track on ROTTENGRAFFTY’s December 2011 album “GOLD,” this piece is a masterpiece where loud rock and melodic elements are brilliantly balanced.
Created by guitarist KAZUOMI from bittersweet memories of youth, it was also chosen as the ending theme for TV Tokyo’s “Kudamaki Hachibei X” in January 2012.
It resonates deeply with those who feel the hardships of modern society or wish to immerse themselves in memories of the past.
Singin’ in the Rainthe pillows
In May 1991, the Pillows included an ambitious track—marking their major-label debut—on the album Moon Gold.
The story begins as the protagonist arrives in a rain-soaked city in search of a new life, vividly capturing a youthful moment of setting out on a journey of self-discovery, despite loneliness and uncertainty.
Inspired by the American film Singin’ in the Rain, the song blends a bright, sprightly melody with energetic performance to create a hopeful piece.
Sawao Yamanaka’s passionately charged vocals, together with the layered sound crafted by the entire band, are sure to resonate deeply with listeners.
It’s a song that gently nudges you forward when you’re trying to face ahead or take a new first step.
Crazy Babyfisshumanzu
A gem of a love song whose gentle, dreamlike melody and wistful vocals seep into the heart.
It beautifully conveys the feelings of a protagonist who pictures their lover’s face in times of sorrow, set to rhythms of reggae and hip-hop.
The poetic lyrics liken the presence of a precious person—someone who remains a source of strength even from afar—to a magical power.
Released by Fishmans in June 1993 and included on the album “Neo Yankees’ Holiday,” this track has become a classic, covered by many artists.
It’s a perfect song for quiet nights when you’re thinking of someone, or when you want to sink into memories of a loved one.