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Danceable Rock! ~ Popular and Classic Songs by TRICERATOPS

Danceable Rock! ~ Popular and Classic Songs by TRICERATOPS
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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 (1–10)

RaspberryTRICERATOPS

This is the memorable debut single by TRICERATOPS, released in July 1997! Beyond the fresh, sweet vocals and melody of Wada—then in his early twenties—and the charming lyrics that straightforwardly express a love that’s so quintessentially Wada, the tight three-piece band ensemble was remarkably mature for newcomers.

In particular, the danceable groove in the chorus, with its off-beat emphasis, showcases the very essence of “danceable rock.” Starting with this track to step into TRICERATOPS’s music might be the best choice.

As a side note, the song first appeared on their self-titled mini-album, which was a Tower Records exclusive, and that version was recorded a half-step higher than the single—something fans will definitely want to check out.

TransformerTRICERATOPS

TRICERATOPS is a band that delivers scorching performances.

Sho Wada, on vocals and guitar, brings a powerful voice and sparkling guitar work.

Their fiery playing really energizes listeners.

Koji Hayashi on bass and Yoshifumi Yoshida on drums—cool yet passionate—are as impressive as ever.

With a headlong sense of speed and a comfortable 8-beat rhythm, “Transformer” is an especially recommended track for summer.

FEVERTRICERATOPS

Fever_TRICERATOPS_Hibiya Open-Air Concert Hall on 2012/7/21
FEVERTRICERATOPS

It’s a danceable, supremely melodious, and pop masterpiece on par with the later smash hit “GOING TO THE MOON”! With drums that incorporate a four-on-the-floor disco beat, a bass line that drives the groove, a catchy guitar riff, and sweet vocals and melodies…

as a quintessential early Triceratops number, it’s a killer tune that absolutely ignites the crowd live.

Interestingly, when this song was released as their sixth single in 1998, it didn’t achieve much success.

Considering that their subsequent classic second album, “THE GREAT SKELETON’S MUSIC GUIDE BOOK,” became a hit, I remember thinking at the time that this track deserved to chart higher.

red go-kartTRICERATOPS

A song released in 2004.

It was the band’s first double A-side single and appears as the second track.

With its catchy melody and straightforward punk vibe, it’s one of their more accessible songs and could be the one that gets you into them.

It’s relatively emotional yet upbeat, and likely to resonate with 2000s band kids.

Definitely consider adding it to your hype playlist.

IfTRICERATOPS

if (TRICERATOPS) 2007.12.20
IfTRICERATOPS

Their ninth single overall, this track is a soulful, medium-tempo ballad—unusual for them at the time.

Even in a song like this, they showcase the unique strengths of a three-piece: the simple yet spot-on guitar work, a melodic bass line, and drums with finely detailed arrangements.

Their hallmark vocal harmonies are outstanding, and the lyrics have that unmistakable Wada flair bursting through—really nice.

You could say it’s a song that highlights their high potential as a rock band.

That said, it isn’t just for quiet listening; it also carries a groove that naturally makes your body sway—that’s the special charm of TRICERATOPS!

JewelTRICERATOPS

A song released in 2004, nine months after the previous work.

It was also used as the ending theme for the TV Kanagawa variety show “saku saku.” The melody is more refined than before, and you can glimpse the band’s core that defies simple categorization.

I think producing a recording with a live feel is difficult, but after many years of experience, that style seems to come out naturally.

GOING TO THE MOONTRICERATOPS

A quintessential TRICERATOPS song and their biggest hit, as everyone knows! Released in May 1999 and featured in a Pocari Sweat commercial, it was played everywhere at the time—on TV, on the radio, and out on the streets—and many people likely got hooked on their music because of this track.

With its wonderful melody and vocal harmonies, a wah-drenched guitar riff that’s as catchy as the melody itself, and a supple, bouncing beat, the trio’s stripped-down band ensemble—free of any unnecessary embellishment—is nothing short of superb.

It’s a killer tune that can be seen as a completed form of their theme of “danceable rock.” No wonder they command deep respect from fellow musicians.