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 07 of 2025. We sincerely hope you enjoy the new discoveries!
ジェニ・ジェニ (Jenny,Jenny) – 教えてあげる (Oshiete Ageru)
This is the first music video by Jenny,Jenny, an up-and-coming rock and roll trio from Tokyo. Active since spring 2022, multi-instrumentalist Carole ai❣️ brought some musicians together after a call on Instagram inspired by English band The Kaisers. Very soon after, they were performing in identical miniskirts and glitter make-up to steal the hearts of the audiences. Last year, they released their first single featuring Little Richard’s song Jenny,Jenny (but the Japanese version released by Yasushi Suzuki a few years after the original song), the inspiration for their band name. — Recommended by Francisca
roi bob – mirror
After releasing several singles, the three-member band roi bob has reached their fourth single, mirror, a pleasant pop song with a shoegazey vibe. The alternative band started activities in 2024 under the name nuit, but because the name was already being used by another group, the three musicians decided in October to continue under roi bob. A good move, as this new name will make them much easier to find. Curious to see what 2025 will bring them. — Recommended by Francisca
星のあくび (Asteryawn) – 生き化粧 (Yuki Geshou)
Led by vocalist Midori Yamashita, pop-rock band Asteryawn has been creating dreamy compositions that create a recognisable yet unique musical world with compelling vocals that combine power and depth since 2023. Originally a quintet, the band recently parted ways with two members, but that didn’t stop them from continuing to create music. This track is featured on Asteryawn’s first mini-album, fittingly titled After a yawn, (including the comma). The mini-album contains seven tracks, five of which will be completely brand new. — Recommended by Francisca
rillrail – Garden
At the end of January, three-piece band rillrail released their first mini-album containing six songs, titled Persephone. It is also their first release in five years, although they published a music video several years ago but it looks like they officially returned to activities early this year. Formed in 2019 with the city of Fukuoka as their home base, the alternative rock band consists of vocalist Fumiko who also writes the lyrics, guitarist Usako and Mayu on keyboard. Characteristic is the use of irregular time signatures which contrasts precisely with their bright sound, enhanced by dark lyrics, creating a unique quirky atmosphere. — Recommended by Francisca
BALZAC – 死線 (Shisen)
It’s been a while since I came across anything new from the four-member band BALZAC, that doesn’t mean they’ve been out of action, but this week they released a brand-new music video and they announced their 13th album, their first since 2019’s Hybrid Black and 30 years since the release of their debut album. More than enough reason to turn the spotlight on this horror punk band, which has been active since 1992. The upcoming album, titled EVIL LEGEND THIRTEEN, will be released on 19 March. — Recommended by Francisca
cry crow. – アロガント (Arrogant)
In September, the duo cry crow. released a limited-edition CD, the proceeds of which were used for this music video. Besides some demos, they have also released several singles that are also digitally available. The two musicians have a DIY mentality, doing almost everything themselves from songwriting and arranging to recording and mixing the music, designing artwork, and filming and editing videos. Although the band has only been active since spring 2023, they have big dreams, including performing on international stages. — Recommended by Francisca
minako – odd
Last October, singer-songwriter minako released her first full-length album, titled FAREWELL. The musician was introduced to music at a young age through the piano, singing and also musical theatre, but in high school she became increasingly interested in playing in bands. In 2021, she began her solo career under the name minako and the following year she released an album of folk songs. However, the urge to produce music with a band sound still beckoned and in 2024 she made the move to do so. — 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.
