Recommended Japanese bands for women in their 20s

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.

Archetype of LoveAJICO

AJICO – Archetype of Love (Official Video)

AJICO is a supergroup that left a vivid mark on Japan’s music scene.

Since their formation in 2000, they’ve captivated many listeners with the distinctive world crafted by UA’s alluring vocals and Kenichi Asai’s guitar.

Singles like “Hadou” and “Utsukushii Koto” showcase a wide musical range, from funk-laced sounds to nostalgic tones.

Their live performances highlight each member’s exceptional musicianship, igniting audiences with excitement.

In 2021, they released an EP for the first time in about 20 years and performed at FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL.

Their songs, balancing beauty and sensuality, express emotion through imagery and draw listeners into a unique realm.

They’re perfect for anyone looking to delve into the deeper layers of music.

RewriteASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION

ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION “Rewrite (2016 ver.)”

Isn’t the chorus of this song a phrase that everyone finds familiar? The word “rewrite” means to write something over.

Just as the word suggests, it’s a song that gives you the strength to face forward when something bad happens or when you’re feeling down.

It’s a signature track by ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION.

Shangri-LaChatmonchy

Chatmonchy “Shangri-La” Music Video

It’s no exaggeration to say this song made Chatmonchy’s name known nationwide.

It was used as the ending theme for the anime “Hataraki Man.” From the very first lines, you’re drawn into their world.

Once you hear it, it’s a track that won’t leave your head.

IKIZAMAEast Of Eden

East Of Eden / IKIZAMA [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

East Of Eden is a five-piece rock band formed around violinist Ayasa.

Their distinctive musical style—combining a metal-based rock sound with classical violin melodies—has garnered significant attention.

They launched in August 2023, showcasing their prowess with the digital single “Evolve [Extended Version].” In October of the same year, they held their first solo concert at Zepp DiverCity to great success, and in December released the mini-album “Forbidden Fruit -1st piece-.” Each member is a seasoned performer with experience across various bands and projects, and their musical backgrounds and individual personalities blend seamlessly.

With a sound that is both heavy and beautiful and a commanding level of musicianship, they strongly appeal to music fans in search of a new form of rock.