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 (1–10)
Sugar Song and Bitter StepUNISON SQUARE GARDEN
In recent years, we’ve often seen their songs performed by student cover bands, haven’t we? Speaking of their appeal, it’s the high level of musicianship in each part, which makes their stylish tracks possible in the first place! Their songs aren’t something you can easily master, but that’s exactly why they look so cool when you nail them perfectly.
From the drum solo at the beginning, to the guitar phrases that make use of cutting, to the bass lines that stay groovy while moving around—there’s plenty to sink your teeth into in practice!
astronomical observationBUMP OF CHICKEN
When it comes to songs to cover in a rock band, you can’t leave out BUMP OF CHICKEN! Among their tracks, “Tentai Kansoku” is a classic that many people with band experience have covered at least once, right? Its popularity remains strong even now, and it’s still a fan favorite that gets the crowd going at live shows! With its famous, distinctive intro riff, richly resonant vocals, and a structure that gradually builds in intensity, it’s a masterpiece packed with all kinds of cool elements.
RewriteASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION
ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION has been the gateway for countless band members—there are probably many who started a band after listening to their songs.
And when it comes to their signature tracks, Rewrite is the one that comes to mind! Of course, they have plenty of other great songs, but this is a perfect choice to fire up the crowd with a cover band performance.
From the explosive, impulsive chorus to the simple yet catchy guitar riff, it’s packed with cool highlights.
THE SONGHanbureddāzu
This is a Humbreaders song that stirs people’s hearts with a positive message.
Chosen as the theme song for the ABEMA Tour 2023, it drew a lot of attention.
Released in February 2023, it was presented as one of the tracks on a double A-side single.
Featuring an energetic rock sound, it’s arranged with live reproducibility in mind.
The lyrics embody courage and hope to overcome difficulties and challenges, symbolically expressing the power of music.
It celebrates the value of music as a means of self-expression and calls on listeners to believe in that power, making it perfect for those who want to express themselves through band performance.
Strawberry MargaritaELLEGARDEN
It’s a refreshing, exhilarating track that feels great to listen to.
The lyrics revolve around breaking free from a dull everyday life and the life-changing impact of meeting someone special.
Included on the sixth album, “The End of Yesterday,” released in December 2022, it was featured on the “Lost Songs Tour 2022,” which stopped at multiple venues nationwide, including ZEPP halls.
This piece has a song structure that’s approachable even for those who’ve just started playing an instrument.
It’s guaranteed to get the crowd going at live shows, making it a perfect pick if you’re unsure what to choose for band practice!
Ultramarine DaysToukyou Jihen
Tokyo Jihen is a band fronted by vocalist Ringo Sheena that defined an era with their exceptional musicianship and musical sensibility.
Their song “Gunjou Biyori” is their debut single, and its rock sound is especially compelling.
You can also feel the sense of history that everything began from here.
Kaiju no Hanabuta (Monster’s Flower Song)Vaundy
The track produced by Vaundy is striking for its chord-rich beats and distinctive melodic lines.
Its simple band ensemble is part of the charm, making it enjoyable from at-home practice to on-stage performance.
With an atmosphere that stirs the audience’s emotions, this piece is sure to hype up a live show! Vaundy’s passion shines throughout, and its catchy tone, which captivates listeners, has strong support among young people.
Released in May 2020, the song was also used in the Maruha Nichiro WILDish series “For Us” commercial.
It’s a perfect pick for anyone who wants to perform an undeniably cool track.