[2026] Recommended Western instrumental bands: Popular overseas bands

The Link Is About To DieLos Bitchos

Los Bitchos – The Link Is About To Die (Live on KEXP)

They may still be relatively unfamiliar in Japan, but let us introduce Los Bitchos, a band that’s been igniting festivals around the world.

Formed in London in 2017, they craft a multinational sound that fuses cumbia with Turkish psychedelic rock and more.

Their debut album, Let the Festivities Begin! (2022), produced by Alex Kapranos of Franz Ferdinand, drew considerable attention and was nominated for an A2IM Libera Award.

In 2024, they released Talkie Talkie, an even more colorful evolution, and its celebratory tracks are a must-hear.

If you’re in the mood to simply have fun and dance, definitely give them a listen!

8 Gates of PleasureNight Verses

Meinl Cymbals – Night Verses – “8 Gates of Pleasure”

Based in California, USA, Night Verses initially featured vocals, but since 2017 they have evolved into an instrumental trio with a distinct identity.

The three members, including drummer Aric Improta, are known for a sound that fuses progressive metal and math rock.

They debuted with the 2012 EP “Out of the Sky,” and cemented their reputation with the 2018 album “From the Gallery of Sleep.” While they haven’t garnered major awards, their ensemble—woven from melodies that stand in for vocals and jaw-dropping, virtuosic drumming—has thrilled many listeners.

They’re a must-listen not only for those who enjoy technical performances, but also for anyone seeking narrative depth without vocals.

PipelineThe Ventures

The Ventures – Pipeline

Isn’t this probably the most famous Western instrumental song in Japan? The ‘teke-teke’ sound is exactly what you’d call electric.

If you’re tired of modern music, it might be good to cleanse yourself by listening to a piece like this once in a while.

You might discover something new that you couldn’t see before.

Year of the SnakeBALTHVS

BALTHVS – Year of the Snake (Audiovision Session)

Bals, a rising star of psychedelic funk from Bogotá, Colombia.

Formed in 2020, they’re a trio led by Baltasar Aguirre, earning attention for their multinational groove that incorporates Latin and Middle Eastern music.

Since their 2020 debut album Macrocosm, they’ve been releasing music energetically, and their 2024 album Harvest has earned international acclaim, including a nomination at the Libera Awards in the United States.

Another part of their appeal is the contrast between the chill, floating feel of their recordings and the fiery funk they unleash live.

If you like guitar tones in the vein of Khruangbin, they’re a must-check.

One Hand One BounceKarate Boogaloo

Karate Boogaloo – One Hand One Bounce [LIVE]

Did you know that Melbourne is a mecca for soul and funk? In that scene, childhood friends came together to form Karate Boogaloo, a band that explores its own unique groove.

They’re a formidable unit who’ve also anchored other bands’ rhythm sections, and they’ve earned acclaim— their 2020 album “Carn the Boogers” was even nominated for a music award.

Devoted to strict mono recording and one-take, no-edit sessions, they craft a distinctive blend of humor and tension.

There’s even a quirky anecdote that Davie D.

Thor ended up handling the accounts because he stayed behind in math class back in school.

Their artisan-like ensemble playing is alive and well on their May 2024 release “Hold Your Horses.” A must for funk fans and anyone who enjoys a film-score-like mood!