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Masterpieces and popular songs by Wagakki Band

As the name suggests, it’s a Japanese-instrument band that combines traditional instruments like shakuhachi, koto, shamisen, and taiko with Western instruments such as guitar.

Along with the instruments, their songs also have an appealing, distinctly Japanese flavor.

Many of their tracks frequently feature Vocaloid covers, making them a band that’s also highly popular among Vocaloid producers.

Wagakki Band’s best and popular songs (11–20)

The Makioka SistersWagakki Band

Wagakki Band / Sasameyuki (MUSIC VIDEO -New Version-)
The Makioka SistersWagakki Band

A fresh-sounding band that fuses Japanese tradition with modern rock offers a song that beautifully paints winter scenes.

The delicate tones of traditional instruments interwoven with rock create a distinctive world that exquisitely expresses both the beauty and the poignancy of snowy landscapes.

Chosen as the theme song for the film “Koi no Shizuku,” it captured the hearts of many.

It’s also memorable as the opening track on the album “Otonoé.” A piece you’ll want to listen to on a winter night as snow quietly falls.

Many listeners will surely relate to the lyrics, which mirror the changing of nature with human emotions.

Vocaloid immersionWagakki Band

This is the debut album of Wagakki Band, a work that opened up new possibilities for Japanese rock.

Its innovative musicality—fusing traditional Japanese instruments with contemporary rock sound—grabs listeners and won’t let go.

Released in April 2014, the album features covers of popular VOCALOID songs, radiating a fresh appeal through the blend of wagakki tones and rock.

Sparked by their appearance at France’s Japan Expo, the band also received high acclaim overseas.

It’s a must-listen not only for those interested in traditional Japanese music, but also for rock fans seeking a new musical experience.

If you want to rediscover the charm of Japanese instruments, this album is highly recommended.

Honor in LoveWagakki Band

WagakkiBand / “Honor in Love” Behind the Scenes
Honor in LoveWagakki Band

This song by Wagakki Band evokes a powerful forward-driving energy with the sounds of taiko drums and the conch shell.

Written by vocalist Yuko Suzuhana as the theme song for “SumaPachi Gifū Dōdō!! ~Kanetsugu and Keiji~ 3,” it features the word “katamuki” (tilt), a term symbolic of Maeda Keiji, used strikingly in the lyrics.

Throughout, it conveys a sense of power to carve out the future.

While the band’s appeal often lies in the rich, layered sound that comes from having many members, this track particularly emphasizes a body-shaking rhythm.

The BeastWagakki Band

Wagakki Band / The Beast MV (Anime “Baki Hanma” Wildman War Arc Opening Theme)
The BeastWagakki Band

Wagakki Band, known for their style that fuses Japanese and Western elements, created “The Beast” as the opening theme for the anime Baki Hanma: The Wildman War.

While the band has released many songs with a cool vibe up to now, this track matches the anime’s tough image with an intense sound.

At the same time, it retains a sense of sorrow and fragility—that’s a key point.

If you like cool, powerful songs, definitely give it a listen.

IgniteWagakki Band

WagakkiBand / “Ignite” Music Video
IgniteWagakki Band

A song by Wagakki Band, an eight-member co-ed group that, true to its name, fuses traditional Japanese instruments with band sound.

Amid the whirlwind of shifting moods, the Japanese-style melodies played on traditional instruments feel wonderfully satisfying.

The heavy, intense rock arrangement leading up to the chorus contrasts with the moment the chorus hits, when the vocals surge to the forefront and the Japanese scales stand out even more.

It’s a track that skillfully blends a distinctly Japanese atmosphere into a rock sound.

Perfect BlueWagakki Band

Wagakki Band’s “Perfect Blue,” as its title suggests, features a clear melody that evokes the vivid blue of a cloudless sky, paired with rapid-fire yet meticulously crafted lyrics.

Since their formation in 2013, they have captivated many listeners with a fusion of Japanese and Western musical styles.

In this work, they convey a commitment to bringing Japanese tradition into the present through powerful vocals and a driving, high-velocity instrumental.

The propulsive rhythm brims with energy that spurs the listener toward the future, making it a song that gives you a push when you’re ready to take a new step.

It’s perfect for listeners who want to savor music and revel in its momentum and ultra-fast, tongue-twisting vocals!

Wagakki Band’s Greatest and Most Popular Songs (21–30)

StarlightWagakki Band

WagakkiBand / “Starlight” MV (Theme song for the Fuji TV Monday 9 PM drama “Ichikei no Karasu”)
StarlightWagakki Band

A song by the mixed-gender eight-member rock band WagakkiBand, chosen as the theme for the TV drama Ichikei no Karasu.

To dispel preconceived notions based on the band’s image, it was released under the name WGB.

While deliberately toning down the signature WagakkiBand style, its high level of completion still showcases the band’s depth and prowess.

Despite its modern tone, the timbre of traditional Japanese instruments woven throughout the track imparts a distinctly Japanese flavor, resulting in a work that fuses tradition and popular music at a high level—something other artists cannot easily replicate.