Lovely Western music

Recommendation of Western Rock: Recommended Foreign Rock Bands, Popular Bands

Editor-in-Chief, RAG MUSICHane Keisuke
Editor-in-chief of RAG MUSIC. JFC-certified fact-checker. After working in a music studio and handling wedding sound, joined the RAG MUSIC editorial team in 2016. Experienced with a variety of instruments: marching band in elementary school, clarinet in junior high school wind ensemble, and drums in a band from high school onward. Drawing on my own musical activities and the experience gained through my work, I produce daily articles, including various song introductions, features on music festivals around the country, and live reports. In music, I enjoy not only rock from Japan and abroad but, lately, a wide range of J-pop as well.
music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.

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!

Recommendation of Western Rock: Recommended Western Bands, Popular Bands (131–140)

Seven YearsSaosin

Seven Years

Seven YearsSaosin

Among the many post-hardcore and screamo bands, Saosin is especially cool.

What makes this band great, I think, is the voice.

Of course, the songs are good and the playing is awesome too.

But the weapon that truly defines this band is undoubtedly the voice of the vocalist, Anthony.

Even the slightly off-key parts in the middle of the chorus sound incredibly cool.

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Surfin’ USAThe Beach Boys

Beach Boys – Surfin Usa HD

Surfin' USAThe Beach Boys

The Beach Boys are a quintessential West Coast rock band.

Many people have probably heard their signature song “Surfin’ U.S.A.,” and they’re a great recommendation for anyone just getting into Western rock.

They debuted in 1962, right at the dawn of rock’s golden age.

Their early songs were inspired by the lifestyle of California youth, so many tracks focus on familiar themes like surfing and girls on the beach.

Enjoy their feel-good rock ’n’ roll that will make you want to head straight for the ocean!

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Kado(guchi) Shichigatsu

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Song 2Blur

Blur – Song 2 (Official Music Video)

Song 2Blur

In Japan, he’s overshadowed by Oasis, but the vocalist Damon is actually incredibly talented.

Beyond his solo albums, he’s active in multiple projects like Gorillaz and other collaborations.

He might be the most gifted of his generation.

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Star SignTeenage Fanclub

Teenage Fanclub – Star Sign

Star SignTeenage Fanclub

When it comes to four-minute pop songs, I honestly feel there’s no band that can top them—to the point where I sometimes think most Japanese guitar rock is basically a copy of this band.

They’re veterans now, but you can still enjoy music that feels like a textbook of rock.

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Don’t Look Back Into The SunThe Libertines

The Libertines – Don’t Look Back Into The Sun (Official Video)

Don't Look Back Into The SunThe Libertines

They’re the most quintessentially British indie rock band.

This stripped-down sound might seem dull to ears accustomed to J-pop.

But once you get used to these non-overdubbed recordings, it starts to feel like rock.

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