Recommendation of Western Rock: Recommended Foreign Rock Bands, Popular Bands
You still hear people say things like, “I listen to Japanese rock bands, but I’m not so good with Western music,” even today, when it’s easier than ever to listen online to music from any era and anywhere in the world from the comfort of your home.
There are many reasons for this, but it seems some people feel a hurdle simply because the lyrics aren’t in Japanese.
So this time, we’ll introduce recommended Western rock bands for those who are thinking of getting into Western rock.
From legendary big names to bands lighting up the 2020s, we’ve picked a diverse lineup to enjoy!
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Recommended Western Rock Music: Recommended Western Bands, Popular Bands (81–90)
Built To LastMêlée
Mêlée is a rock band formed in 2000 in Orange County, California.
Their music stands apart from typical pop-punk, placing emphasis on piano and melodic sensibility.
They released their debut album, Everyday Behavior, in 2004, and a single from their 2007 sophomore album, Devils & Angels, became an international radio hit.
Their carefully crafted melodic pop, influenced by Elton John and Coldplay’s Chris Martin, has even been featured in film and TV soundtracks.
They’re a recommended listen for fans of pop rock and indie rock.
Bizarre Love TriangleNew Order
New Order is a band formed in Manchester, England, that represents the post-punk/new wave scene.
Heavily incorporating synthesizers and drum machines, they are also considered a techno-rock band.
In 1980, after Ian Curtis, the vocalist of the post-punk band Joy Division, took his own life, the remaining members honored their promise that they would not continue under the same name if even one member were missing, and formed New Order.
They released “Ceremony,” the last new song performed with Ian during the Joy Division era, as New Order’s first single.
Although bassist Peter Hook left the band in 2012, New Order continues to be active today.
How You Remind MeNickelback
Nickelback is a Canadian rock band.
They’re a nationally beloved group that’s popular in Canada, and they’ve visited Japan many times for headlining tours and Summer Sonic, making them a well-loved band there as well.
Their greatest hallmark is powerful yet catchy, narrative-driven melodies that make you feel every song is a good one.
With a classic four-piece lineup of vocals, guitar, bass, and drums, their backing sound captures a raw, live band feel that makes them approachable for longtime rock fans too.
CloserNine Inch Nails
Nine Inch Nails is a band that stands out for its exceptional dedication to sound production.
Their rich tonal palette defines their individuality, and their approach offers a distinct twist on the typical band sound that’s a key part of the appeal.
At the same time, the intense worldview layered over those meticulously crafted sounds is addictive, making it easy to see why they’re celebrated as legends in the United States—an absolutely top-tier band.
GREENS AND BLUESPixies
The vocalist is short, fat, and bald—the complete opposite of Japan’s visual-kei style.
But he’s many times cooler.
Fans will know that recently, the triple afflictions that plague this man were completed by adding one more: he’s now an old guy.
You could say the foundation of Nirvana’s songs lies in this band’s music.
AlivePearl Jam
Pearl Jam is one of the bands that represent the American rock scene.
They spearheaded the early-1990s grunge movement and have captivated many fans with their powerful sound and socially conscious lyrics.
Their 1991 debut album, Ten, was a massive hit, going 13x platinum.
Vs.
sold over 950,000 copies in its first week, breaking records at the time.
Beyond their music, their stance toward the industry—such as criticism of ticketing systems—also drew attention.
In 2017, they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Eddie Vedder’s distinctive vocals and the band’s heavy guitar sound are compelling.
Highly recommended for anyone looking for powerful, fiery rock!
[Recommended Western Rock] Recommended Western Bands, Popular Bands (91–100)
If I Ever Feel BetterPhoenix
Phoenix is a French rock band that debuted in 2000.
They emerged just as the gritty, distorted guitar-rock boom of the ’90s was fading, and stood out with their stylish sound.
Blending funk, disco, and Black-influenced rhythms with an effortlessly relaxed approach, they exude cool.
Their fresh rhythms and tones—unlike much of what came before—opened a new door for rock.