RAG MusicBand
A wonderful Japanese music band

A special feature on WANIMA’s finest and most popular songs, shining with piercing exhilaration and meticulous craftsmanship!!

Here’s an introduction to some of the classic and popular songs by WANIMA, a three-piece rock band from Kumamoto that helped reignite the melodic hardcore (melodic punk) boom in the 2010s!

They’re a new-generation melodic hardcore band carrying on the wave from Hi-STANDARD, MONGOL800, and 10-FEET.

In addition to their musical strengths—catchy tracks that skillfully weave in reggae and ska elements, tight musicianship, and impressive vocal harmonies—their boundlessly cheerful personalities are also a huge part of their appeal.

By the way, it’s well known that “1106” is a song dedicated to bassist-vocalist KENTA’s grandfather, who was a fisherman.

KENTA himself is also said to be quite skilled at fishing, often dropping a line with whatever gear he has on hand during breaks between tours.

Now, enjoy!

A showcase of WANIMA’s standout and popular songs, shining with exhilarating freshness and meticulous craft!! (61–70)

Xia XiaoWANIMA

WANIMA’s “Natsugyō” was chosen as the theme song for the anime GAMERA -Rebirth-, which was released worldwide on Netflix in September 2023.

The title means “summer dawn,” and it’s a powerful, fast-paced track that’s quintessentially WANIMA.

It’s also included on their October 2023 album Catch Up.

GAMERA -Rebirth- is the first anime installment in the series, and WANIMA also handles the ending theme, so be sure to check it out!

Hey yo…WANIMA

This song is included on the first full-length album Are You Coming?, released in 2015.

While WANIMA is often associated with high-energy, uplifting anthems, “Hey yo…” is a mellow, emotional track.

It isn’t one of their most widely known songs, but it’s easy to sing thanks to its comfortable vocal range and tempo—and above all, the lyrics are sure to grab listeners’ hearts and draw them in.

The song is also known for expressing the band’s sentiments about the Great East Japan Earthquake.

That day, in that placeWANIMA

While WANIMA’s music is known for its up-tempo rhythms and powerful high-register vocals, they also have more relaxed songs with fewer high notes.

The song “Ano Hi, Ano Basho” is one of those—rather than forcefully rousing the listener, it gently stays close and soothes the heart.

Its lyrical message resonates with listeners, and the melody is characterized by a relatively narrow vocal range, making it easy to sing.

It’s a recommended number that even those who struggle with high notes can try with confidence.

gongWANIMA

WANIMA「GONG」OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO
gongWANIMA

This is a song by WANIMA, the band best known in Japan for their beaming smiles.

You’ve probably heard their tracks in commercials and on TV, and no matter how many times you listen, their powerful performance always gives you energy.

They’re a melodic hardcore band that embodies the reassuring strength of music, constantly cheering people on.

Whether you get hyped up by their fast-tempo tracks or sit back and listen closely, they’re an amazing band either way.

glareWANIMA

This is the eighth digital-only single by WANIMA, a three-piece rock band that thrills audiences at their live shows with lyrics full of heartfelt, fiery messages and an all-out melodic hardcore sound.

Released as a double A-side with “Ano Hi, Ano Basho,” it was chosen as the theme song for the TV drama Namba MG5.

With driving guitar riffs and emotional harmonies, it’s classic WANIMA that cranks up the energy.

A powerful rock tune with positive, encouraging lyrics that really hit home.

Graduation PhotoWANIMA

WANIMA "Rindou" OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO
Graduation PhotoWANIMA

WANIMA is a popular rock band that has even performed on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

Known for their bursting energy and hard-hitting rock sound, many people may not be used to hearing them do ballads.

Even in “Sotsugyo Shashin,” the trio’s power is on full display.

The original is a gentle song, but their version conveys a strong sense of vigor.

It brings back memories of those days when we ran around in our youth.

MilkWANIMA

The tour was canceled due to the impact of COVID-19, and this song is one of the pieces created during that period! During the time of staying at home, many of us realized just how important the people around us are, didn’t we? This song is said to be about “precious time with loved ones,” and it resonates all the more because it was a time when we couldn’t meet friends or partners as we wanted.

WANIMA is known for fun, high-energy songs that hype you up with their goofy vibe, but their warm and gentle songs like this are really wonderful too.