[Definitive] An introduction to Western mixture rock: a roundup of recommended classic tracks
If you find yourself instinctively reacting when you see the term “mixture rock,” you’re probably, like me, a Western music fan who came of age in the ’90s.
“Mixture rock” refers literally to a blend of various genres—rock and metal mixed with hip-hop, funk, Latin music, reggae, and more—but it’s actually a Japanese-made term.
Overseas, similar sounds are labeled as rap metal, funk metal, crossover, and the like.
In this article, we’ve compiled quintessential tracks that Japan would categorize as “Western mixture rock.”
If you’re a younger music fan, be sure to experience that streetwise vibe of the ’90s to early ’00s!
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[Classic] An Introduction to Western Mixture Rock: A Collection of Recommended Masterpieces (11–20)
CannibalStatic-X
A song by the industrial metal band Static-X, formed in Los Angeles, USA, in 1994.
It is the title track of their fifth album, released in 2007.
The album reached No.
36 on the U.
S.
charts and became a hit in countries such as Australia and Austria.
AngerDownset.
Characterized by fierce guitar riffs and socially critical lyrics, this song was born against the backdrop of the 1992 Los Angeles riots.
It voices anger toward police brutality and gang culture, sharply capturing the social issues of the time.
Released in 1994 as the lead single from Downset.
’s debut album, it didn’t chart but has been highly regarded as a defining track of mixchore rock.
Imbued with a spirit of anger and a demand for justice, this song is recommended for those who feel rage at society’s injustices or want to experience the essence of 1990s rap metal.
Feel Good(Hed) P.E.
I chose this track from (Hed) P.
E.
’s album “Broke,” released in August 2000—the standard-bearers of the “G-punk” style in the rap-rock scene—not because it was a single, but because it’s a must-listen for fans of rap-rock and nu-metal.
It’s classic (Hed) P.
E.
with a fusion of hip-hop, funk, and metal, but what makes it special is the guest vocals by Serj Tankian of System of a Down and Morgan Lander of Kittie! Their distinct styles blend beautifully, resulting in one of the most unique cuts on the album.
Definitely give it a listen!
EpicFaith No More
Faith No More is a legendary band that pioneered funk metal and alternative rock, profoundly influencing the bands that followed.
After the brilliant Mike Patton joined, they achieved commercial success, propelled by the hit Epic.
Released as a single from their classic 1989 album The Real Thing, it broke into the Billboard Top 10.
While packed with the band’s signature funk-metal elements, its incredibly catchy, pop-leaning chorus had all the makings of a hit.
It’s practically a template for the hybrid rock that flourished from the ’90s onward, so you should definitely give it a listen at least once!
New WavePleymo
This track stands out with its explosive sound that fuses fierce guitar riffs and rap.
It carries a passionate message of defiance toward the music industry and a pursuit of authenticity in self-expression.
Packed with the musical identity of Pleymo—whose uncommon French origins also drew attention—this work is included on their breakthrough second album, Episode 2: Medecine Cake, released in 2002.
It’s also recommended for those who want to savor the unique appeal of French-language crossover music.
CowboyKid Rock
A song released as a single by Kid Rock in 1999.
It reached No.
5 on the U.
S.
charts and became a hit in countries such as the UK and Australia.
The music video is an homage to the 1977 film Smokey and the Bandit.
[Classic] An Introduction to Western Mix-Metal/Rap Rock. A roundup of recommended masterpieces (21–30)
NumbLinkin Park
A song that portrays the suffering of children who struggle to live up to their parents’ high expectations, conveying the message that parents need to better understand their children.
It was released as a single by Linkin Park in 2003.
A version titled “Numb / Encore,” a collaboration with Jay-Z, was also recorded.