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Danceable Rock! ~ Popular and Classic Songs by TRICERATOPS

TRICERATOPS, who have carried the banner of “dancing to rock,” have been active on Japan’s music scene for over 25 years since their formation in 1996.

They’re highly regarded by fellow musicians as well, and it’s still fresh in our minds that the star-studded tribute album “TRIBUTE TO TRICERATOPS” was released in 2020.

If you’re not yet familiar with their music—built on solid musicianship, irresistibly catchy melodies and riffs, and danceable beats—be sure to check out this article.

From classic hits to beloved deep cuts from their albums, we’ve got plenty of recommended tracks to share!

Danceable Rock! ~ TRICERATOPS’s Popular and Classic Songs (11–20)

GOTHIC RINGTRICERATOPS

This is a classic that showcased TRICERATOPS’s high potential back in 1998, when they were a rising band catching the ears of sharp-eared Japanese rock fans, revealing a different side from their sweet, breezy guitar-pop sound.

The arrangement is brilliant: from a distinctly ’90s-sounding, likely programmed drum intro, it cascades into a tense opening; the guitar riffs and bass line make clever use of rests, and the drums that hug the melody are seriously cool.

Among their songs from that time, this one especially carries a strong scent of contemporary British rock, and Wada’s wistful vocals and melodies, along with the lyrics’ excellent sense of imagery, are just superb.

As an aside, it’s also a favorite of the one and only Yuming (Yumi Matsutoya).

If your only image of them is “GOING TO THE MOON,” this is the masterpiece you especially need to hear!

I GO WILDTRICERATOPS

It’s a short song of about three minutes, but the lingering attachment to love seeps through.

Still, there’s no cloying heaviness; from the very first verse, its catchy melody draws listeners in.

It conveys a message of wanting to protect the one you love.

If you’ve had a fight with your girlfriend, this might be a good song to send her.

The repeated chorus lyrics are so infectious you’ll find yourself humming along.

LIP CREAMTRICERATOPS

It may not be a single, but it’s a hidden gem that’s hugely popular among fans! This track is included on the landmark second album that first put TRICERATOPS on many people’s radar, THE GREAT SKELETON’S MUSIC GUIDE BOOK, released in December 1998.

The lyrics are quintessential Sho Wada—capturing small moments of everyday life while deftly portraying a sweet yet slightly bittersweet love story.

At the same time, their robust, rock-solid sound—heavily influenced by Western music—sets it apart from a run-of-the-mill sweet love song.

And the guitar solo, though short, leaves a strong impression—surprisingly mature and tasteful for a band in their early twenties!

Startin’ Lovin’TRICERATOPS with May J.

「Startin’ Lovin’」 TRICERATOPS with May J.
Startin' Lovin'TRICERATOPS with May J.

The collaboration piece with May J., “Startin’ Lovin’.” It’s turned into a cute song, different from their usual powerful performances.

The sweetness and warmth of their two vocals feel really nice.

It’s fun, like the two of them are openly sharing their feelings.

TRICERATOPS has expanded into a new world through this collaboration with May J.

It sounds like it would be incredibly fun to sing with your partner at karaoke.

Let’s get hyped together as a duo.

FUTURE FOLDER !!!TRICERATOPS

With their move to Avex, TRAICERATOPS’s first release “FUTURE FOLDER” is a uniquely fun song bursting with personality.

Before you know it, you’re drawn into the TRAICERATOPS world.

The guitar melodies really support the distinctive vocals—nicely done.

The harmonies with the chorus in the middle section are very striking, and the ensuing guitar solo is awesome.

It’s the kind of track that would lift your spirits on a drive.

LOVE IS LIVETRICERATOPS

LOVE IS LIVE【LIVE RECORDING】(TRICERATOPS)
LOVE IS LIVETRICERATOPS

Packed with a mature rock vibe, “LOVE IS LIVE” is upbeat, fun, and seriously cool.

The intro riff is wonderful, and it gets you excited for the love story that unfolds from there.

It’s a song that makes your heart feel happy as you listen.

As expected from TRICERATOPS, the sound design is excellent and the feeling of love comes through straight and clear.

Danceable Rock! ~TRICERATOPS’s Popular and Classic Songs (21–30)

Night StrangerTRICERATOPS

This is a track included on their 6th album, “LICKS & ROCKS.” It’s the last song on the album, and its slightly dark, bittersweet vibe feels perfectly suited for the closing track.

The chorus is refreshingly TRICERATOPS-like, with a heart-tugging melody.

The line about having caught up to the age of the superstar they were once obsessed with is especially wonderful.