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 20 of 2025. We sincerely hope you enjoy the new discoveries!
Trooper Salute – 天使ちゃんだよ (Tenshi-chan dayo)
This Nagoya-based five-member band makes symphonic indie rock with nostalgic melodies. Formed in 2022, Trooper Salute made the move to perform on the stages of music venues in 2024 and were support acts for both Japanese and international touring bands. In a short time, they managed to carve out a name for themselves in the local music scene, but also beyond. In December, they released their first EP, a self-titled one, through their own label Buriki Records. Keep an eye on this band, because I believe they can make it far. — Recommended by Francisca
超右腕 (Super uwan) – バーサス想い出 (Versus Omoide)
This song can be found on the third album by alternative rock band Super uwan, I WAS WAITING FOR YOU AT OKAYAMA-STATION, which was released this week. This album was released a year and a half after their second album, titled OBAKE IN TSUSHIMA-NAKA. The Okayama-based band is heavily influenced by American alternative rock, yet presents it in an accessible, pop-infused style with their own unique twist. The lyrics are raw and honest, with a unique perspective on everyday life. — Recommended by Francisca
Hebi Katana – Dead Horse Requiem
After releasing several albums, quite a few live recordings, and a mini-tour in Italy and France, stoner/doom metal trio Hebi Katana have taken the next step by signing to US independent record label Ripple Music to release their fourth studio album Imperfection. To be released on 25 July, the album features tracks with lyrics inspired by the Japanese concepts of wabi-sabi, the beauty of imperfection, simplicity, and impermanence, and enso, a Zen Buddhist symbol. — Recommended by Francisca
miu mau – motif 21
This week artpop band miu mau released a new single, Motif21, with an accompanying music video animated by Kuri Studio. The trio was formed in Fukuoka, but the band members are currently based in cities such as Takamatsu, Fukuoka, and Tokyo. Consisting of singer-songwriter Masami Takashima behind the microphone and keyboard, guitarist Hiromi Kajiwara (who was active in Hyacca), and drummer Miwako (who is also active in alternative rock band Sacoyans). They already have several releases to their name, but this one seems to be the first via Call And Response Records and also their first release in about 8 years, but I could be wrong. — Recommended by Francisca
TAMIW – Anthem of Sutra
I have written before about TAMIW, an alternative band that likes to push the boundaries in terms of musical styles, and this is proven with ease with the song Anthem of Sutra. Unlike previous songs that are much lighter in tone, this track has a much heavier feel with a delightful dominating bass line. Working with a do-it-yourself mentality, the four-piece band has just released their fourth album, Farewell Party, said to be an emotionally raw work, created after a difficult period for the band, with setbacks and loss. Slowly, the band found the strength to make music again, and a new beginning has been made with this album. — Recommended by Francisca
capri=lante – doomer
This past January saw the release of rock band capri=lante’s first EP, HIGHFIVE, a digital release that, according to the band, contains everything from intensity to fun. Combining punk rock with piano, the band manages to stand out a little more with this new style. Founded in 2024, the quartet aims to innovate within the Japanese rock scene and released their debut completely independently. In addition to this new music video, the young band has posted a handful of other videos online in recent months to showcase a bit more of the band. — Recommended by Francisca
Yusuke Terauchi – UnpackAge
After being active in several bands, including his own band FaRange, Yusuke Terauchi decided to take a different path with a solo career in 2022. His solo work is best described as genre-transcending and progressive. He works from the concept of ‘conceivable music’: compositions that invite deep reflection, but can also simply be listened to and felt. While living with a rare muscle disease, myofibrillary myopathy, he explores duality and emotion through sound as a composer, guitarist, vocalist, and keyboardist. — 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.
