[Rock Artists] A roundup of popular Japanese bands
“Who are the artists active in the rock scene?” If you’re a listener who doesn’t usually listen to rock, you might be wondering this.
In Japan’s rock scene, countless bands are active today, and new songs are born every day.
In this article, we’ll introduce a wide range of rock bands that are making waves in the domestic music scene all at once! For those just starting to listen to Japanese rock, we picked bands based on the idea of “the ones you should listen to first.” From up-and-coming groups to legendary bands, we’ll cover a broad spectrum—so start by checking out songs from the bands featured here!
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[Rock Artists] Summary of Popular Japanese Bands (21–30)
RepulsionUNWAVERING
UNWAVERING, based in Nagoya, is a metalcore band formed in 2018 around vocalist Yosuke.
The members are twin guitarists Hayate and H.Y.T, bassist Kazz, and support drummer Kakeru.
They began their activities in 2019 with the EP “Departure,” and have since steadily released works such as the album “DAWN” and the single “TRAUMA.” Their musical style has been described as “etched into the soul.” Their intense yet emotional sound hints at new possibilities for Japan’s metalcore scene.
1998Atomic Skipper
Atomic Skipper is a rock band formed in 2014 in Hamamatsu, Shizuoka Prefecture.
Flying the banner of being a “head‑on, no‑nonsense rock band,” they deliver energetic live performances.
After releasing their first nationwide-distributed mini-album, “Shishun o Koete,” in 2020, they put out their major-label debut album, “Orbital,” from Universal Sigma in 2023.
Their hallmark is crafting emotional melodies rooted in rock and J-pop.
HypocrisyC-GATE
Based in Tokyo, C-GATE is a post-metalcore band formed in Nagano in 2012.
The members are vocalist NaShun, guitarist/vocalist Ryo Sakura, bassist Johnny, and drummer/vocalist Hiroki.
Their hallmark is a heavy, technical sound that ferociously fuses elements of death metal and hardcore.
After self-releasing their album “void” in 2016, they overcame lineup changes and accelerated their activities.
In March 2022, their track “Eat ’em all” topped Japan’s metal top songs chart, solidifying their credentials.
Their sound, which marries uncompromising aggression with architectural precision, is sure to resonate deeply with listeners seeking true metalcore.
custom; convention; old-fashioned practiceDEVILOOF
DEVILOOF captivates with a style that fuses the aesthetics of visual kei with overseas deathcore.
Formed in Osaka in 2015, the band consists of four members: vocalist Keisuke, guitarist/vocalist Ray, bassist Taiki, and drummer Kanta.
While incorporating extreme metal elements such as slamming and brutal death metal, they craft songs with a strong sense of structure and beauty.
Their 2021 album Dystopia topped international metal charts, showcasing their global impact.
Actor Tadanobu Asano being a fan and appearing in their music video Inshū is another testament to their influence.
Known as “Japan’s most ferocious visual kei,” their sound is one you should definitely experience.
HAZEFalling Asleep
Falling Asleep is a band known for its DIY style, with Hiroki at the center handling almost all aspects of production.
Based in Tokyo, the band has been highly active in the studio: after releasing the album “HEAVEN’S WHERE OUR SOULS BELONG” in 2023, they followed up with “DIE OR RIDE” in 2024.
While their sound is rooted in edgy rock, they boldly incorporate elements of electro and J-pop, placing them beyond the conventional framework of metalcore.
They’re sure to captivate listeners in search of a new musical experience!
ChamomileHaze of the Bullet Blossom
Based in Tokyo and championing “LYRICAL & EMOTIONAL SOUNDS,” Haze of the Bullet Blossom is a band that has been active since 2022.
The members are vocalist atsuki, and guitarists Tanana and Kenta Tsushima.
Their hallmark is a metalcore sound where delicacy and ferocity intersect.
In 2024, they released a series of digital singles such as “Zessho” and “Physalis.” In June 2025, they will hold a release event in Shinjuku for their single “Hi no Hana,” reflecting their energetic activity.
Their sound—woven from emotive vocals and a heavy twin-guitar attack—embodies an evolution unique to Japan, setting them apart from overseas bands.
DESPERATENOCTURNAL BLOODLUST
Formed in Tokyo in 2009, NOCTURNAL BLOODLUST is a band rooted in metalcore and deathcore, known for its unique style that fuses the aesthetic sensibilities of the visual kei scene.
They launched full-scale activities in 2011 with a two-part single and went on to produce works such as the album “THE OMNIGOD.” A key attraction is their varied approach from release to release, even incorporating elements of nu metal and jazz.
In 2016, they embarked on a European tour and earned international acclaim.
Immerse yourself in their technical performances and beautiful melodies that shine amid their intense sound.