[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 (41–50)
to go out of one’s way; take the trouble (to)TETORA
TETORA is a rock band formed in 2017.
While we’re introducing them here as an alternative rock band, they’re also adept at a sound closer to orthodox rock and pop music.
TETORA’s greatest appeal lies in the world they create from lyrics that are easy to relate to.
For listeners in their teens and twenties, many of their songs will likely feel personally relevant.
They also interact frequently with other bands, and their musical style has evolved as their career has progressed.
Including these changes, they can be considered a truly compelling band.
[Rock Artists] Summary of Popular Japanese Bands (51–60)
SCREAMWENDY
WENDY is a rock band formed by four members who met at a youth center in Setagaya Ward.
After starting their activities in 2020, word of mouth spread online and they quickly became a hot topic.
In 2022, they held their first one-man show and released their debut album, “Don’t waste my YOUTH,” keeping the momentum going.
They also drew attention for releasing a track produced with Mark Whitmore.
Since their lyrics are in English, they’re a great recommendation for fans of Western music.
The city is waking up.mogari
If you want to listen to orthodox Japanese alternative rock, I recommend a band called mogari.
Each member comes from a different background, but their musical style has a solid sense of unity, and every track presents a highly crafted world.
The melodies have that blend of languidness and freshness typical of late-2000s Japanese rock—think ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION.
It goes down easy, so it’s a great starting point for anyone looking to dig into alternative rock.
one’s true feelingstoro
In Japan’s domestic rock scene, there are many bands that are so far from rock they’re practically pop.
Of course, that’s where the demand is, so there’s nothing inherently wrong with that, but I imagine many people feel dissatisfied with the scene as it is.
For those people, I’d like to recommend the band toro.
They’re a three-piece that champions the “revival of rock” and is actively making waves.
Their authentic sound rivals that of the Western rock scene.
Definitely give them a listen.
sentimentalyutori
“Shortcut feat.
Yui Yaguchi,” posted in 2020, went viral.
The group behind the song is the rock band yutori.
They originally planned to release just one track and then disband.
However, the response was so overwhelming that they decided to continue as a full-fledged band.
A hallmark of their music is how they capture the delicate emotions of youth and heartbreakingly poignant love stories in their songs.
They’re very active with live shows and festival appearances, so be sure to experience their world in person if you can.
March of LifeZa Kuromaniyonzu
Since their debut at a radio station’s live event in 2006, they have remained highly active up to 2023, when this was written.
Led by Hiroto Kōmoto, who spearheaded THE BLUE HEARTS, and Masatoshi Mashima, who also worked on THE HIGH-LOWS, their rock ’n’ roll—delivered by some of Japan’s foremost rock stars—is a must-listen even for those who aren’t rock fans.
Alongside simple, straightforward expression, their music overflows with masculine power.
At their core is a gently affirming message that makes you feel “there’s nothing in this world that’s truly no good,” making them a wonderful rock band.
If it’s going to wither anywaysekando bakka
Second Backer is a band active primarily on social media.
While rooted in alternative rock, their hallmark is catchy lyrics and hooks.
Among their songs, the one I especially recommend is Dōse Kareru Nara (“If We’re Going to Wither Anyway”).
It’s a track crafted in a breezy late-2000s alternative rock style, and despite being a three-piece, you can really feel how full and satisfying the performance is.
Beyond their sound, the lyrics are excellent too, so be sure to check them out.