A Must-See for Music Lovers: A Roundup of Rockin’ On-Style Bands!
“Rokin’on-kei” refers to bands that have been featured in the music magazine ROCKIN’ON JAPAN.
There isn’t a strict definition, though; bands that music fans feel have a “Rokin’on vibe” have come to be called rokin’on-kei.
The term especially spread from the 2000s onward.
The large-scale music festival ROCKIN’ON JAPAN FESTIVAL, which started in 2000, has also had a major influence.
In this article, we’ll be introducing a roundup of rokin’on-kei bands! Be sure to read to the end and find your new favorite band!
[A Must-See for Music Lovers] A Roundup of Rockin’ On-style Bands! (1–10)
A flower called “you”ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION
ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION is indispensable when discussing Japan’s rock scene of the 2000s.
Formed as a university club band and making their major debut in 2002, they quickly rose to fame thanks to Rewrite, the theme song for the anime Fullmetal Alchemist.
Their major appeal lies in the fusion of literary, socially conscious lyrics penned by vocalist Masafumi Gotoh and a sound influenced by UK rock.
They have won accolades such as the Japan Gold Disc Award for landmark albums like Sol-fa.
If you’re searching for words that strike the heart, you’ll surely be drawn into their allure.
astronomical observationBUMP OF CHICKEN
One of the bands that represents the Rokkin’on-style scene is BUMP OF CHICKEN.
Rooted in alternative rock, their deep, story-like lyrics and beautiful, emotionally resonant melodies have captivated many fans.
After their major debut in 2000, they had a breakout hit in 2001 with Tentai Kansoku (Stargazing).
Since then, they’ve achieved numerous milestones—for example, Hana no Na, created as a film theme song, made history by winning a triple crown at the 2008 MVA music awards.
They’re highly recommended for those who want to immerse themselves in narrative-rich lyrics or are looking for music that gently stays close to the heart.
migratory bird[Alexandros]
![migratory bird[Alexandros]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/O_DLtVuiqhI/sddefault.jpg)
[Alexandros] is a flagship band of the so-called “Rockin’ On” scene and an essential name when talking about today’s Japanese rock.
Their guitar-driven sound shows a clear UK rock influence, and vocalist Yohei Kawakami’s soaring, penetrating high tones shine over it.
Their signature tracks include “Wataridori,” which has been featured as a movie theme and in commercials.
The way they deftly weave English lyrics into their songs and the exhilarating openness of their sound is truly impressive.
They’ve released a wide range of tunes, from breezy numbers to aggressive rock, so try exploring to find songs that match your favorite vibe.
Odoru-LoopFurederikku
Frederic is a rock band from Kobe formed around the Mihara brothers.
They wield a highly addictive dance-rock sound that skillfully incorporates funk and disco.
Since their major debut in 2014, they’ve unleashed a string of unforgettable killer tunes like “Oddloop” and “YONA YONA DANCE.” Their ever-shifting musicality and explosive live performances that electrify arenas are also remarkable.
If you’re looking for danceable rock, start with their music.
Frenzy Hey Kids!!THE ORAL CIGARETTES
Since their major debut in 2014, THE ORAL CIGARETTES have captivated countless live-music fans with sultry vocals and highly addictive songs.
Formed in Nara in 2010, they’re known for a sound that fuses diverse styles like alternative and dance-punk.
After debuting, they made a big splash with Kyouran Hey Kids!!, the opening theme for the anime Noragami ARAGOTO.
Their albums Kisses and Kills and SUCK MY WORLD both hit No.
1 on the charts in succession.
If you want to get swept up in energetic music, this is a band you absolutely can’t miss.
Sugar Song and Bitter StepUNISON SQUARE GARDEN
UNISON SQUARE GARDEN is a rock band with such overwhelmingly cool song arrangements that you’ll wonder, “Are they really a three-piece?” They debuted in July 2008 and have steadily grown their fanbase with a sound that freely moves between rock and pop.
Their appeal lies in each member’s high level of musicianship, which enables their sleek, stylish music.
Their 2015 release, Sugar Song and Bitter Step, became a massive hit as the ending theme of the anime Blood Blockade Battlefront and is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at their shows.
In 2023, they topped the charts with the album Ninth Peel, solidifying their popularity.
Their sound—combining technically demanding performances with Kousuke Saito’s pleasantly familiar high-tone vocals—will resonate with both those who love intricate playing and those who crave catchy melodies!
Transparent GirlNUMBER GIRL
NUMBER GIRL is an alternative rock band that fires fragments of urban anxiety and emotion over razor-sharp guitar sounds.
Formed in Fukuoka in 1995, they captivated listeners with searing live performances and made their major-label debut in 1999.
Their distinctive Japanese-language rock, etched into albums like SCHOOL GIRL DISTORTIONAL ADDICT and SAPPUKEI, influenced many bands that followed.
The urgency of the vocals and the explosive ensemble create a palpable tension you won’t forget once you hear it.