With a large music industry such as Japan, the second largest in the world, music fans will inevitably 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 43 of 2024. We sincerely hope you enjoy the new discoveries!
ジンバジ (Zinbazi) – これからの物語には (Kore Kara no Monogatari ni wa)
The Osaka-based three-piece rock band Zinbazi have been producing music for several years, but since this summer they have greatly expanded their activities and intensified efforts. This is evident in their plans, including their first-ever solo show in December. With catchy phrases and melodies combined with the distinctive vocals of vocalist and bassist Niki, the band manages to attract a wide audience as they create songs that resonate with listeners’ inner struggles and personal growth. Curious to see what’s next for this three-piece from Osaka. — Recommended by Francisca
mogari – 春がそうさせる (Spring makes me do it)
This week saw the release of Osaka-based rock band mogari’s third EP, アイラ (Aira), the first CD release since the band underwent a name change and also the first release that received a nationwide release in Japan. In spring 2020, the band launched as mogari after euphoria, in summer 2023 they decided to continue as mogari. In the meantime, they have also undergone several line-up changes and last May, with the addition of the bass player, the current band line-up was fixed. In terms of music, the basis of their sound is rock, but they also add other musical styles to make it grungy or just danceable. — Recommended by Francisca
grating hunny – 君が見てる (Kimi Ga Miteru)
These young guys from grating hunny have not been in the scene for very long, almost 2 years, but are making a good impression with their youthful and energetic punk rock songs. If we take a look at this year alone, the four-member band has already released several singles and even a live album. This week they released a new digital single, written by vocalist and guitarist Suzukita. The song is inspired by a personal memory of the musician, which took place in the summer of 2021 and reflects a somewhat nostalgic mood focused on the passage of time. — Recommended by Francisca
Schuwa Schuwa – Mint
Mint is the follow-up to the digital single Rhythm, released a month earlier, making it Schuwa Schuwa’s second release in 2024. This Tokyo-based electropop duo, consisting of Teruko Konse and Kohei Watanabe, produces with a Do-It-Yourself mentality, creating everything from music to artwork and even music videos. In the years they have been active, they have released two EPs and several singles, attracting more and more eyes and ears. They have also had interesting collaborations, such as with Inoue Kan and Arata Hikaru of the experimental soul band WONK. — Recommended by Francisca
tone spoon – 脳から (Nou kara)
Given the limited production of new music, it is extra noteworthy when alternative rock band tone spoon released some new. After releasing their first EP 生活習慣 (Lifestyle Habit) in December 2022, they released a double A-side single last October and this week, a year later, came the follow-up, another single. In the meantime, they were not sitting still at all, as they have been mostly busy performing, but it is good to hear something new from this band again. As always, this catchy new track is filled with irregular and unpredictable developments, as well as double vocals from Ayana and mariӥa. The music video is also noteworthy with the striking choice of pink in the clothes of all the band members. — Recommended by Francisca
しらい (Shirai) – ピラルクの娘 (The Girl of Pirarucu)
Shirai is a versatile solo idol with a decade of experience in this particular corner of the music world. Over the years, she has also been active under the stage names sheislei and Shiraha, with activities in groups such as Parfait♡Girls and Jyujyu, these days she is a part of the idol unit cherish your bubble. Last month, she made her re-debut, under the musical production of URBANGARDE’s Tenma Matsunaga, further expanding her musical horizons. Besides her music activities, she is also active as a model and talent as well as has held several photo exhibitions. — Recommended by Francisca
the Vases – SHE IS UNDERGROUND
This is the fifth digital single from the Vases, a Nagoya-based three-piece rock band with strong rock music influence from the United Kingdom. The band has been active since 2015, although they put everything on hold for a while, but since 2019 they have returned in full force to bring attention to their aggressive guitar riffs and – as they say themselves – lyrics that create a world reminiscent of 90s pop culture fiction. Earlier this year, the band consisted of four musicians, but after the guitarist’s departure, the band has continued as a three-piece and has since released two new singles and music videos. — 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.
