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)
KusushikiMrs. GREEN APPLE
This piece expresses scenes woven by a mystical tale through an Oriental-tinged melody and band sound.
Created by Mrs.
GREEN APPLE in April 2025, it was selected as the opening theme for the second cour of season 2 of the TV anime The Apothecary Diaries, with arrangement handled by Shingo Kubota and Motoki Omori.
The lyrics, inspired by the dual nature of the archaic word “ayashi” (strange/wondrous), delicately weave the power of words, subtle shifts of emotion, and love that transcends time.
In harmony with the story and carried by vocals that resonate deep within, this is a recommended track for anyone wishing to touch upon life’s mysteries and their most cherished feelings.
Cool songs by Japanese rock bands: a roundup of recommended tracks for cover bands (121–130)
Absolute relationshipakai kouen
This piece condenses the subtle distance and complexity of human relationships into just 100 seconds.
The edgy sound of Akai Ko-en blends beautifully with lyrics that portray a sincere desire to understand the other person.
Despite its brevity, the song’s structure leaves a powerful impression, and Yosaki Tsuno’s sharp insight shines throughout.
Released as a single in March 2014, it was chosen as the theme song for Fuji TV’s Saturday drama “Lost Days,” which began airing in January of the same year, and it reached a personal best of No.
20 on the Oricon Singles Chart.
It’s a heartwarming song that stands by anyone struggling with relationships that don’t go as planned.
Killerskuroneko CHELSEA
A new-style track from Kuroneko CHELSEA that incorporates a Reiwa-era take on post-punk.
The jagged, razor-edged band sound has a thrilling allure.
From the lyrics and vocal delivery, you can feel the strength of pressing forward while holding fierce emotions.
Released in May 2024 as a digital-only single, this is the first work from the reborn Kuroneko CHELSEA as a duo.
The music video, directed by vocalist Daichi Watanabe, has also been released and is generating buzz.
It’s sure to resonate not only with rock fans, but with anyone standing at a crossroads in life—awakening the passion slumbering deep in your heart.
90’S TOKYO BOYSOKAMOTO’S
OKAMOTO’S captivate with a groovy sound built on razor-sharp guitar riffs reminiscent of the Red Hot Chili Peppers and vocals that blend elements of Black music.
Their lyrics—vivid snapshots of Tokyo’s cityscape and honest portrayals of the vague anxieties and sense of stagnation felt in one’s twenties—resonate with many listeners.
Released in August 2017 as the opening track of the album “NO MORE MUSIC,” this song was also featured in adidas’s CAMPUS Series campaign.
In 2022, they held “90’S TOKYO BOYS IN HALL SPECIAL ~After School~” at NHK Hall, delivering a grand performance with members of Suchmos as guest musicians.
It’s a recommended track for anyone craving a spark in their everyday life or looking for the perfect soundtrack to a stroll through the city.
To me4na
Singer-songwriter 4na began her activities as a cover singer on YouTube in 2020 and made her artist debut the same year.
Her single “To Myself,” released on August 16, 2023, features a refreshingly pleasant ensemble.
The guitar riffs in the intro and interlude are simple yet impactful, and because the bass uses root notes and the drums play an 8-beat—fundamental techniques—it’s approachable even for beginner bands.
With a melody that’s both exhilarating and airy, it captivates listeners and is a highly recommended number for live performances.
MelissaPorunogurafiti
From the very first bass line, it’s just insanely cool! Don’t you think you could practically become popular just by playing this bass part? It’s a track that won widespread support after being used as the very first opening theme for Fullmetal Alchemist.
Not only the bassist, but the vocals, guitar—every instrument gets a chance to shine, so while karaoke is great, you should definitely try performing it with a band! Just watch out for everyone fighting over the parts!
CrossfaithMoNoLith
An electrifying shock of a track inspired by the monolith that triggered apes’ evolution into intelligent life, seamlessly fusing Crossfaith’s weighty message with electronica.
It portrays the protagonist’s inner turmoil—lost in life and struggling through deep despair—through powerful shouts and a destructive sound.
Released in June 2012 as the opener of the mini-album “ZION EP,” it’s known as a work that symbolizes the band’s musical evolution.
Their legendary 2014 performance on the main stage of the UK’s Download Festival, which drove roughly 20,000 fans into a frenzy, is still talked about today.
A gem that resonates with every soul yearning to break out of its shell while confronting inner conflict.