A song by a rock band bursting with exhilarating energy and a sense of speed that you want to listen to in the summer.
Every summer, countless music festivals are held all over the country, and I imagine many rock band fans feel that summer is the season of music.
In fact, many Japanese rock songs are themed around summer, so you could say rock and summer are inseparable! In this article, we’ll introduce a selection of Japanese rock tracks that are perfect for the summer, all in one go.
From fiery, hype-inducing tunes to refreshingly exhilarating tracks, we’ve picked songs to match whatever situation you want to listen in—so find the perfect track for your mood.
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Songs (111–120) by rock bands full of exhilarating, fast-paced energy perfect for summer listening
Cobalt on a summer afternoonAwesome City Club
This song by Awesome City Club features a broad, genre-blending musicality that incorporates soul and R&B, paired with a sound that carries a touch of nostalgia.
With its light, airy feel highlighted by distinctive keyboard tones and a cutting guitar, the track was also used as the opening theme for the drama “She Was Pretty.” The breezy sound and vocals evoke a refreshing summer wind and a bright, clear atmosphere.
The lyrics, too, leave a fresh and upbeat impression that suggests a sense of hope, conveying an uplifting, exhilarated feeling.
Songs brimming with exhilarating freshness and a sense of speed from rock bands you’ll want to listen to in summer (121–130)
OCEANB’z
This is B’z’s 39th single, “OCEAN.” It’s a classic summer song you want to listen to while feeling the white waves crashing.
When you look at the vast sea and the waves, your small worries—and even your small self—stop mattering, and you feel like you can keep going again.
It feels like a song that expresses gratitude to the ocean.
Surfrider AssociationELLEGARDEN
This is a track from their second album, “BRING YOUR BOARD!!”.
It’s a fast-paced number perfect for opening the album.
It also became a staple in their summer festival sets.
It’s a song that makes you want to grab your surfboard and dash to the ocean.
MABOROSHI SUMMERKEYTALK
KEYTALK is a four-piece rock band that captivates fans with each member’s distinctive personality and the appealing gap between their coolness and approachability.
MABOROSHI SUMMER, included on the best-of album KTEP COMPLETE—which is composed solely of tracks from their concept EPs dating back to their indie days—is packed with catchy elements: a tight ensemble, a driving beat, and airy melodies.
The wistful lyrics echo the bittersweet side of summer, not just its heat.
The irregular meter that appears partway through adds an extra hook, making it a modern summer tune.
Dog DaysMAN WITH A MISSION
Summer festivals wouldn’t be possible without them! These are the tracks from MAN WITH A MISSION’s EP “Dead End in Tokyo European Edition,” which was originally scheduled for release only in Europe.
It’s now available in Japan as well, and it’s sure to fire up the summer stage.
LIFEkimaguren
This is a representative song by the duo Kimaguren, who in 2005 founded CLUBEACH HOUSE KANNON—a summer-only live music venue that also served as a beach hut on Zushi Beach—and whose activities, along with their music, drew a lot of attention.
The track features an impressive, refreshing sound reminiscent of a sea breeze, symbolizing the duo’s identity as an act centered around seaside activities.
While empathizing with the sadness and hardships we experience in life, the song also seems to convey the message that sometimes it’s important to live for yourself.
Perpetual Summer Vacationfurenzu
This is the perfect song for anyone who wants something sophisticated and danceable.
It has a vibe that recalls ’90s J-pop, and even adults who are tired of today’s music might find themselves hooked.
They’re also a great live band, so if you get the chance, definitely go see them.
