Recommended Japanese bands for men in their 20s

Supernova9mm Parabellum Bullet

9mm Parabellum Bullet – Supernova

Formed in Yokohama, Kanagawa in 2004, 9mm Parabellum Bullet is a skilled rock band with a distinctive presence, spanning a wide musical range from post-hardcore to heavy metal.

They made their major debut in 2007, and their album “Termination” reached No.

10 on the Oricon charts.

Since then, they have continued to captivate many listeners with powerful performances and a unique worldview.

In September 2009, they proved their prowess by successfully headlining a solo show at Nippon Budokan.

The heavy sound woven by Takuro Sugawara’s vocals and Yoshimitsu Taki’s guitar becomes even more compelling when experienced live.

Energetically active—having also performed at Yokohama Arena—the band’s music is perfect for fans seeking both powerful performances and melodic elements.

Archetype of LoveAJICO

AJICO – Archetype of Love (Official Video)

AJICO is a supergroup formed around UA (vocals) and Kenichi Asai (guitar).

Since their debut in 2000, they have left a powerful mark on the music scene with their distinctive sound.

From the single “Hadou” to the album “Shinryoku,” they have created a wide range of works, spanning from funk sounds to nostalgic tones.

In 2021, they released the EP “Setsuzoku,” their first in roughly 20 years.

They also performed at FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL, presenting a new funk sound.

Their songs, which combine beauty and sensual allure, express emotion through imagery and draw listeners into a unique world.

They’re recommended not only for festival-goers but also for those new to bands.

AJICO’s music is sure to be a special experience that resonates in your heart.

Bad peopleBLANKEY JET CITY

Blankey Jet City Bad People

As one of the defining rock bands of the ’90s, BLANKEY JET CITY established a distinctive garage rock sound.

After winning the Grand Ikaten King title on TBS’s “Miyake Yūji no Ikasu Band Tengoku” in 1990, they made their major-label debut with the album “Red Guitar And The Truth.” Their intense, overwhelming sound drew widespread attention, and they proved their prowess on major stages like Nippon Budokan and Yokohama Arena.

In 1997, they headlined the Fuji Rock Festival, cementing their popularity.

Though they disbanded to much regret after their July 2000 show at Yokohama Arena, their music continues to influence many musicians.

They’re the perfect band for music fans who seek powerful performances and a uniquely imaginative world.

HEROESBrian the Sun

Brian the Sun 『HEROES』Music Video

They are a rock band from Osaka, formed in their high school light music club.

They won the runner-up prize at the 2008 Senkou Riot.

True to their identity as an emotional rock band, their literary lyrics are a major draw.

The song in the video was used as the ending theme for the anime “My Hero Academia.”

Before foundationFirst Love is Never Returned

First Love is Never Returned “Before the Foundation” (Official Music Video)

Hailing from Hokkaido, the five-piece band First Love is Never Returned delivers an all-encompassing pop sound that fuses pop, R&B, and indie rock.

They officially kicked off their activities in 2023 and have been steadily growing their fanbase, including serving as the opening act at RISING SUN ROCK FESTIVAL 2023.

Lead vocalist Kazuki Ishida studied vocals in New York, and his uniquely captivating tone—often described as a “voice in love”—is a key draw.

Known for songs like “POP OUT!” and “Back Mirror,” they were selected for Spotify’s “RADAR: Early Noise 2024.” Combining youthful, vibrant sensibilities with refined musicianship, their music is recommended not only for festival enthusiasts but also for listeners new to band music.

UkifuneGO!GO!7188

GO!GO!7188 – Ukifune / Ukifune – Ukifune (Official PV)

This is a three-piece rock band formed by classmates Yuu and Akko from Kagoshima.

They specialize in surf rock and garage rock infused with traditional Japanese flavors, and made their major debut in 2000.

Skillfully weaving in elements of nostalgic Shōwa-era pop while adding a punk rock edge, they captivated many fans with their distinctive sound.

Their fiery live performances—driven by Yuu’s striking vocals and guitar, Akko’s bass, and Turkey’s drums—left audiences in awe.

Even after disbanding in February 2012, the members each continued their musical pursuits.

If you discovered rock in your youth, this band will surely resonate with you.

Stay GoldHi-STANDARD

Hi-STANDARD – Stay Gold [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

Hi-STANDARD has led Japan’s 1990s punk rock scene with a truly one-of-a-kind presence.

Since forming in 1991, they’ve captivated countless fans with catchy melodies and a powerful sound.

After debuting with the 1994 mini-album “LAST OF SUNNY DAY,” their 1995 album “GROWING UP” became a massive hit, selling over 700,000 copies including overseas editions.

Their strong vocals over melodic hardcore and their energetic performances have had a major impact on Japan’s rock scene.

They are also known as pioneers in the music world, having launched the rock festival “AIR JAM” in 1997.

A band with a timeless appeal that makes your heart race whenever you listen—deeply tied to the memories of youth.