Classic Japanese metal songs. Recommended popular tracks.
When you hear the word “metal,” what kind of image comes to mind?
If you don’t usually listen to it, you might think it’s “noisy” or “scary,” and maybe even feel that it’s “hard to listen to.”
Of course, metal does have those aspects in its musical style and themes—but that’s not all there is to it.
From beautifully composed songs with clear classical influences to tracks with comedic lyrics, there’s a wide variety of music, especially in Japan.
So this time, we’d like to introduce some classic masterpieces of Japanese metal!
Masterpieces of Japanese metal. Recommended popular songs (1–10)
Black-robed celestial maidenOnmyo-za
Onmyo-za, known for their heavy metal inspired by Japanese legends and yokai, have captivated many fans with their unique worldview since their formation in 1999.
Released in 2007, this work is a melancholic track themed around love, destruction, and human conflict.
Featuring weighty guitar riffs and grand melodies, it fully showcases Onmyo-za’s signature style.
It was also chosen as the ending theme for TV Asahi’s “Adrena! Garage,” bringing it to a wider audience.
Highly recommended for those who want to immerse themselves in a distinctive world where Japanese tradition and modern heavy metal merge.
AmaryllisUnlucky Morpheus
A world of symphonic metal where beauty and intensity converge.
Unlucky Morpheus’s music blends classical elements with heavy sounds in perfect harmony.
Featured on the album “evolution,” this track is marked by Fuki’s charming vocals.
While it carries an anime-song flair, its bright yet somehow bittersweet melody resonates deeply.
The lyrics, themed around love and secrets, delicately portray the true feelings hidden behind a mask and a fateful encounter.
Released in April 2022, the song captures emotions wavering between a fantastical worldview and reality, making it a piece that will surely speak to those struggling with love and relationships.
ThrillBAND-MAID
With its fierce guitar riffs and powerful vocals, this track is known as one of BAND-MAID’s signature songs.
Included as the B-side to their debut single “Matador of Love and Passion,” it became a number that drew international attention to the band.
It’s a song that fully showcases their musicality, whose charm lies in the striking contrast with their maid outfits.
The lyrics, themed around self-expression and freedom, emphasize a stance of seeking new possibilities in everyday life.
Packed with a blazing message calling for liberation from preconceptions and constraints, this work is sure to resonate deeply with listeners.
Brimming with BAND-MAID’s appeal, this track is highly recommended for anyone craving energetic music.
ivory-colored lieDAIDA LAIDA
A track included on DAIDA LAIDA’s 10th-anniversary album “Issen.” It features vocalist NoB’s passionate, soulful performance and MASAKI’s technical bass playing, resulting in a catchy yet moving finish.
Released in September 2022, the song blends elements of intense rock and delicate balladry, weaving an emotionally rich story of purity and inner conflict.
With lyrics that use the delicate hue of ivory to express the complexity of human relationships and the wavering of inner emotions, it is sure to resonate with many listeners.
This piece is recommended not only for hard rock fans but also for those who want to savor deeply meaningful lyrics.
GraffitiLittle Lilith
A girls’ band drawing attention with their stylish metal sound, Little Lilith delivers a track whose lyrics—set to fierce guitar riffs and pounding rhythms—strikingly explore themes of fragility and despair.
Its call to break free from the constraints of reality is likely to resonate with younger listeners.
Included on the album “Graffiti,” released in July 2022, this song symbolizes a fresh start for the band.
Built on a djent foundation while incorporating progressive elements, its heavy, richly layered sound is sure to satisfy fans of loud rock.
Raitei (Thunderbolt)NEMOPHILA
The girls’ heavy metal band NEMOPHILA is known for a sound that combines intensity and beauty.
The energetic guitar riffs and powerful vocals weave a sonic world that grips listeners and won’t let go.
The lyrics, infused with messages of struggle and hope, give you the courage to face adversity.
Released in August 2020, this track is included on their first album, REVIVE.
It’s the perfect number for when you want to immerse yourself in fierce metal sound or fire yourself up.
Experience this track packed with NEMOPHILA’s appeal for yourself.
Excuse me, I’ll be leaving first.chill of early spring
Hanabie., a hybrid girls’ band whose every move is unmissable—including their appearance at one of the Netherlands’ largest metal festivals, Dynamo Metalfest 2023.
Released in January 2023, this track features a catchy blend of Japanese-influenced ensemble work and melodies that are cool yet cute.
The lyrics, which express a desire to escape the pressures of modern society, are likely to resonate with many listeners.
With sound production by Yuyuyuppe and a spoken-word cameo by voice actress Aki Toyosaki, the star-studded lineup is another draw.
It’s a powerful song you’ll want to play when you’re worn out by busy days.