[2026] A roundup of the best UK bands, featuring many up-and-coming acts!
In Japan, both now and in the past, bands from the UK have been especially popular among Western music.
As fellow island nations, there’s a shared sensibility—those slightly damp, melancholic melodies and lyricism resonate perfectly with Japanese tastes, and many people are also drawn to the distinctly European worldview.
In this article, we’ve researched recommended UK bands.
The first half spotlights up-and-coming and new artists you should watch to understand the “now” of Britain, while the second half takes a broader look—centered on rock—at veterans and mid-career acts you ought to know.
It features plenty of bands that are great for beginners to UK rock and Western music alike, so be sure to check it out!
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[2026] A roundup of recommended British bands, featuring many up-and-coming artists! (61–70)
Breakfast in AmericaSupertramp
The album Breakfast in America, which shares its title with the song, became a massive hit worldwide, but it doesn’t seem to be very well known in Japan.
Riding the momentum of that album, the next release also hit number one across various parts of Europe.
The band’s songs are centered around keyboard tones, giving them a laid-back rock vibe.
Saturday nightBay City Rollers
A pop band from Scotland in the UK, known for catchy songs with refreshing vocals and lively melodies.
Their music has been used not only in canned coffee commercials but also on many different TV programs.
The intro is particularly striking and is used especially often.
Public ImagePublic Image Ltd
Public Image Ltd, who shocked the UK music scene.
Formed in 1978 around John Lydon, formerly of the Sex Pistols, the band is known as a pioneer of post-punk.
Their debut single “Public Image” instantly drew attention with its distinctive sound.
The album Metal Box is characterized by dub-influenced basslines and icy guitar tones, and it received high praise from critics.
In the 1980s they produced numerous hits and, with their experimental musical approach, influenced many artists.
This band is recommended for those drawn to a unique worldview and innovative sound.
House Of The Rising SunThe Animals
The Animals were a leading British R&B band of the 1960s.
They were characterized by Eric Burdon’s raw, wild vocals and Alan Price’s distinctive organ.
Their signature 1964 release was a cover of a folk song, but their interpretation turned it into a worldwide hit.
They went on to produce numerous hits, including “We Gotta Get Out of This Place.” In 1965, they appeared on the American TV show The Hollywood Palace, captivating audiences with their electrifying performance.
Their music, which revived R&B and blues classics through their own unique interpretations, continues to captivate many music fans to this day.
NastyThe Damned
Originating from the UK and known as pioneers of punk rock, The Damned formed in London in 1976.
Centered around Dave Vanian’s vocals, they developed a wide-ranging sound that spans from early punk to later gothic rock.
Their debut track became the first single ever released by a British punk band, leaving a major impact on the subsequent punk scene.
Their 1977 classic album Damned Damned Damned was produced by Nick Lowe.
Although they experienced a breakup, after reuniting they pursued a more pop-influenced and diverse musical direction, also contributing to the development of goth culture.
With innovation and a genre-defying approach, The Damned have continued to lead the music scene for over 40 years—experience their enduring appeal for yourself.
Time Of The SeasonThe Zombies
The Zombies are a rock band that represents the United Kingdom.
Formed in 1962, they are one of the leading bands of the 1960s British Invasion.
Their debut single, “She’s Not There,” reached No.
2 in the U.S.
They followed it up with a string of hits, including “Tell Her No.” Their 1968 album Odessey and Oracle later received high acclaim and was ranked 100th on Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Albums of All Time.
With their distinctive melodies and harmonies, they continue to captivate many fans.
In 2019, they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Highly recommended for those drawn to a psychedelic atmosphere and refined musicianship!
Symphony Of The NightDragonForce
This is a track by a leading British melodic power metal band.
Although the song isn’t very well-known, its melodic and exhilarating beat is incredibly pleasant, making it a feel-good masterpiece.
I can definitely recommend it as the perfect music for high school students to get pumped up to.