[Western Music] Must-Know: A Roundup of Popular Overseas Fusion Bands
Fusion is often described as a subgenre of jazz, and—as the name “fusion” suggests—it’s characterized by a crossover sound that incorporates musical elements from a variety of genres.
Overseas it’s also called “jazz fusion,” but in Japan the fusion boom gave rise to popular bands that are still active today and exceptional players, making it a pivotal genre that has influenced many areas, including the recently popular city pop.
In this article, we’ve put together an overview of must-know international fusion bands to start with.
By learning not only about the bands but also the renowned players who were in them, your knowledge of fusion will deepen significantly!
- [Western Music] Classic Jazz Fusion Masterpieces: Must-Listen Recommended Albums [2025]
- [2025] Recommended Instrumental Bands in Western Music: Popular Overseas Bands
- Classic fusion music masterpieces. Recommended staple tracks.
- Masterpieces of crossover. Recommended popular songs.
- Masters who perform jazz fusion: A roundup of representative international artists
- A roundup of classic Western jazz-funk albums—from staples to the latest releases
- Recommended Western funk bands. Popular overseas bands.
- [Western Music] Start with this one! Classic and popular songs of alternative rock
- [For Beginners] A Roundup of Classic Popular Soul/Funk Bands
- Summary of representative Western funk artists and groups
- A classic jazz-funk masterpiece. A popular recommended track that offers a different flavor from traditional jazz.
- [For Beginners] Introducing Recommended Overseas Reggae Bands and Groups!
- A roundup of popular Western blues bands—also recommended for rock fans!
[Western Music] Must-Know! A Roundup of Popular Overseas Fusion Bands (1–10)
Nuclear BurnBrand X
We take a closer look at the appeal of Brand X, the jazz fusion band from London.
Formed in 1974, they drew attention with a unique sound that fused art rock and jazz rock.
Their debut album, Unorthodox Behaviour, released in 1976, became a hot topic among fusion fans.
The band’s core member, John Goodsall, had a guitar style that greatly influenced the development of guitar fusion.
They’re also well known for having Phil Collins as their drummer.
Brand X’s music is characterized by advanced musicianship and an innovative approach, and is recommended for music fans seeking a new sound that transcends the boundaries between jazz and rock.
Sneakin’ Up Behind YouThe Brecker Brothers
Let me introduce the Brecker Brothers, who have close ties with Japan.
They were a brother duo consisting of Michael and Randy.
Although they originally pursued their musical careers separately, they decided to form a duo on the advice of their record label.
After that, starting with Best New Artist, they went on to win the Grammy Awards four times.
The Brecker Brothers also performed with popular Japanese artists such as SMAP.
You might have listened to their playing without even realizing it.
Rock YouDIRTY LOOPS
One of Sweden’s leading fusion bands is Dirty Loops.
They began their musical activities in 2013, gaining recognition by posting covers of popular songs by famous artists on the internet, and eventually making their major-label debut.
The vocalist, Jonah Nilsson, has an impressively high range, so one of the band’s charms is enjoying his beautiful singing voice.
By the way, Dirty Loops have also covered famous Japanese songs, so be sure to give them a listen.
[Western Music] Must-Know! A Roundup of Popular Overseas Fusion Bands (11–20)
Birds of FireMahavishnu Orchestra
John McLaughlin is a guitarist who represents the United Kingdom.
The Mahavishnu Orchestra, the band he formed, is a fusion group you should definitely listen to.
Their music is unique even within the fusion genre, incorporating not only jazz and rock but also Indian music, funk, and the sound of the violin.
As a result, they’ve produced many intriguing tracks that don’t quite fit into any single genre.
For a starting point, The Best of Mahavishnu Orchestra, which serves as a kind of greatest-hits collection, is a good choice.
God Make Me FunkyThe Headhunters
For bands with strong rock and funk elements, The Headhunters are also highly recommended.
Formed in 1973 around pianist Herbie Hancock, they became instant stars when their debut album, Head Hunters, became a sensational hit.
By the way, many of their songs subtly incorporate elements of African music and music originating in the Caribbean as a hidden touch.
You’ll surely be captivated by their soulful vocals.
Matinee IdolYellowjackets
Formed in Los Angeles in 1977, the jazz fusion band Yellowjackets is known for its diverse musicality that transcends the boundaries of jazz.
They quickly gained attention with their debut album Yellowjackets and found success with albums such as Mirage A Trois and Samurai Samba.
Their achievements have been highly acclaimed, with two Grammy wins and seventeen nominations to date.
Their music spans a wide emotional range—from energetic and joyful to romantic, melancholic, and sentimental—and is crafted to suit various situations, such as relaxation or driving.
While rooted in jazz, their sound incorporates styles like crossover jazz and smooth jazz, making it a great choice for listeners who enjoy music unconstrained by genre.
JoyShakti
For those who want to hear a more unique fusion, Shakti is also highly recommended.
The band consists of guitarist John McLaughlin, violinist L.
Shankar, and percussionists Zakir Hussain and T.
H.
Vinayakram.
It’s made up of an international lineup, and their tracks have a distinctly exotic atmosphere.
The music strongly incorporates elements of both North and South Indian traditions.