Recommended Japanese bands for women in their 20s

Sugar Song and Bitter StepUNISON SQUARE GARDEN

UNISON SQUARE GARDEN “Sugar Song and Bitter Step” Live Music Video

This is the song that was used as the ending theme for the anime Blood Blockade Battlefront and became a hot topic.

It’s addictive and I can’t help but hum along.

As an aside, the bassist’s wild performance in the live footage is incredible.

Your eyes go to the bass more than the vocals—the bass completely steals the show.

Give flowersBlume popo

Blume popo 'Give Flowers' Music Video

Introducing the appeal of Blume popo, a five-piece alternative rock band from Shiga Prefecture.

All members have been friends since childhood, and the band officially kicked off in 2015.

Their hallmark is a sound that weaves together Miko Nomura’s fragile, translucent vocals with the band’s meticulously crafted ensemble, fusing elements of post-rock, shoegaze, and electronica.

In 2017, they won “RO JACK” at ROCK IN JAPAN FESTIVAL and went on to perform at the festival.

Give them a listen and you might find your senses awakened in a whole new way.

Overdriveosage

osage – Overdrive [Music Video] (Theme song for BS-TBS Thursday Drama 23 'Spice.')

Osage, a four-piece rock band from Shimokitazawa, has been gaining attention for a sound that blends nostalgia with freshness.

Their music is rich with appeal, driven by Kenta Yamaguchi’s distinctive vocals and the members’ outstanding musicianship.

After winning the grand prize at the murffin discs audition in 2018, they made their major-label debut in 2024 on gr8! records.

Their strength lies in a sonic palette that incorporates diverse genres such as mixture rock and hip-hop.

They’re a must-listen for anyone exploring the possibilities of music.

AngelRyuubensu

Rubens – Angel-san (Music Video)

The Tokyo-based alternative rock band Rubens brings together the gentleness of J-pop with the raw allure of an alternative sound.

Since 2022, they’ve been releasing primarily via digital platforms.

The band features Serena’s delicate vocals and poetic lyrics, Etsu’s melodious guitar, Mary on bass, and Matsumaru’s dynamic drumming.

True to their name, inspired by the Baroque master painter, they are marked by high artistry and richly expressive emotion.

They’re a band that strikes a chord with listeners seeking a fresh jolt.

Dance at Nightfurenzu

Friends "Dance at Night"

Friends is a five-member band formed in 2015, based in the Shinsen area.

Built on a foundation of pop, they’ve drawn attention for a distinctive sound that fuses funk, disco, R&B, and more.

They’ve released numerous works including the albums “Baby Tanjou!,” “Con-Paach!,” and “SOLAR,” captivating many listeners with bright, catchy melodies and playful lyrics.

Originally planned as a one-off project for keyboardist Hirose Hirose’s birthday, the group launched full-scale activities thanks to the members’ strong chemistry.

Their live performances, which prioritize a sense of unity with the audience, embody the pure joy of music and are entertainment in its truest form.

This is a band especially recommended for those who want to share energy and smiles through music.

Marunouchi SadisticToukyou Jihen

Marunouchi Sadistic

Tokyo Jihen captivates listeners with a unique sound that fuses jazz, funk, and rock.

They debuted in 2004 with the single “Gunjō Biyori,” bringing together members of exceptional skill under the leadership of Ringo Sheena.

With overwhelming musicianship and performance at numerous festivals and live shows, they made their first appearance on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen in 2021.

The lineup is noteworthy as well: bassist Seiji Kameda has won the Japan Record Awards’ Arrangement Prize twice.

Their meticulously crafted arrangements, distinctive lyrical world, and visually striking stage—with careful attention to costumes—make them a top recommendation for listeners seeking musical depth.

Incorporating elements of R&B, their innovative sound grips music fans and doesn’t let go.

1999Hitsuji Bungaku

Hitsujibungaku “1999” (Official Music Video)

Hitsujibungaku brings color to Japan’s music scene with a sound that blends delicacy and power.

Their performances, delivered in a simple three-piece setup, are rooted in alternative rock while embracing a diverse musicality that includes R&B-inflected tracks.

After debuting with an EP in 2017 and making their major-label debut in 2020, the band has gained attention through collaborations with anime productions as well.

Moeka Shiozuka’s androgynous vocals and literary lyricism, Yurika Kasai’s high-register harmonies and bass playing, and Hiroa Fukuda’s simple yet powerful drumming strike a perfect balance, creating a distinctive sonic world.

Since 2024, the band has steadily expanded their reach, including embarking on their first overseas headlining tour.

They come highly recommended for music fans who are drawn to nuanced, delicate expression.