With a large music industry such as Japan has, the second largest in the world, it is inevitable that music fans will be inundated with a profusion of good (and also less good) music from this country. It is impossible to keep track of this and write a review about it per video. But to avoid missing out on gems, it is time for a weekly list of new music videos from Japanese music acts that are definitely worth watching and need some extra focus, with an emphasis on the lesser-known names.
We are now looking back on a selection of videos released in week 37 of 2024. We sincerely hope you enjoy the new discoveries!
Transit My Youth – Boy meets Punk Girl
October sees the release of the second album by five-piece rock band Transit My Youth, titled Repechage, which follows up their second EP released in 2022. Looking at the tracklist, the album features tracks that were previously included on earlier (live-limited) releases and received music videos, making it a mix of new and established live tracks. Speaking of Transit My Youth’s musical influences, they range from power pop and electronica to alternative music and American indie music, giving the band a fresh take on rock music. — Recommended by Francisca
The Dahlia – レザーのシューズ (Leather No Shoes)
Earlier this month, the very first album by Osaka-based four-piece punk rock band The Dahlia was released, titled BUZZY KIDS, featuring re-recordings of fan favourites from their three previously released demos. So while this is their debut, it is at the same time a kind of greatest hits collection. Released via PIZZA OF DEATH’s sub-label Jun Gray Records, the four musicians deliver a raw, nostalgic punk sound influenced by punk music from the ’70s and ’80s, while injecting their own youthful energy—the average age is just 21.5—into the mix. — Recommended by Francisca
The Spanky Muds – Dancing in the storm
The Spanky Muds, formed in 2015 when the musicians were still high school classmates, have been blending garage rock, punk rock, alternative, and various other influences into their rock ‘n’ roll sound for nearly a decade. Their energetic performances and distinctive style have earned them a significant place in Japan’s music scene. Over the years, they’ve released several mini-albums, singles, and a split release with ニホンハツ (Nihonhatsu). This is the first music video in two years for the band, but the release of the digital single from Dancing in the storm is also their second release for 2024. — Recommended by Francisca
Reinore – 電脳遷都 (Dennou Sento)
Described as a nostalgic punk band, the Tokyo-based four-piece band Reinore began their activities in 2023. Despite their recent start, they’ve already released two singles. Their latest song, 電脳遷都 (Dennou Sento), though not yet released as a single, has a music video which was released this week. The song is a short one, running at just 1 minute and 46 seconds, but is fast-paced and packed with raw emotion, roaring guitars, and poetic lyrics, while the music video is almost completely drenched in a blue hue. — Recommended by Francisca
バカ力 (Bakadikara) – 戦争 (Fight)
This band has a long track record, formed in 2007, going through several band line-ups over the years, as well as releasing several CDs and several digital singles this year. Known for their sincere approach to their craft, they have been a fixture in the local music scene for years, especially when you know that the vocalist and guitarist of the band is the manager of a studio for rehearsals, recording and music training (among others) in Nishinomiya City, the band’s home base. Their band name, which can be translated as “Foolish Strength,” reflects their commitment to channelling their passion and integrity into every song and performance. — Recommended by Francisca
My Little Devil – Last Beginning
The three ladies of rock band My Little Devil have put a strong focus on performances since forming in April 2023. They are known for their powerful, energetic performances that create an intense connection between the stage and the audience. Their very first music video captures this live intensity perfectly, with fast-paced, dynamic visuals that evoke the atmosphere of a live concert. With three singles under their belt, they are already making good progress in gaining momentum, but early next year they will reach a new milestone that will help in this regard – their first one-man show. — Recommended by Francisca
泥眼 (Deigan) – humanoid
In just a short time, Deigan has made significant strides in the visual kei scene. Originally formed in October 2023 as a project band under the name 消えない痣 (Kienai Aza), on social media they announced themselves as a new mysterious band. They made their debut performance in November of the same year. By February, the band had undergone a line-up change and adopted their current name, Deigan. Since then, they’ve released their first EP and a single, and the four-piece continues to perform unabated. — Recommended by Francisca
Next week we will be back for a new list of new music videos to check out. But you can also look back to the earlier editions of this weekly article series for when you yearn for more musical gems! Want to read more about how this project started or check out the YouTube playlists? Click here for all the information.
