Lovely Vocaloid

[Latest & Classic] A Special Feature on Rock Vocaloid Songs [VOCAROCK]

A Vocaloid producer who is also a music writerWakachan Araki
I started playing guitar in middle school and focused on band activities during my student years. I’ve been a hobbyist Vocaloid producer for over 15 years. After entering the workforce, I gained experience in various roles, including event sound engineering and videography/photography. As a writer, I’ve contributed introduction articles for music and manga websites, and in 2022 I had the opportunity to write the bonus liner notes for IA SUPER BEST. My specialties are Japanese rock, Vocaloid, and manga.

There are various coined terms in the Vocaloid scene, and among them, Vocaloid rock songs are written as “VOCAROCK.” In this article, I’ve put together a selection of popular VOCAROCK tracks.

From timeless classics to newer releases, it’s a well-rounded lineup.

So I can confidently say it’ll resonate with both rock fans and Vocaloid fans! If you read through to the end, you might just catch a glimpse of the history of rock in the Vocaloid world.

Be sure to find your new favorite track!

[Latest & Classic] Rock Vocaloid Song Collection [VOCAROCK] (161–170)

If it's a lovers' double suicide, then with the snake-woman at the mansionSLAVE V-V-R

If it's a lovers' suicide, then with the snake woman at the mansion / SLAVE.V-V-R feat. Seikai

If it's a double suicide, then with the snake woman at the mansion: SLAVE V-V-R

While incorporating a touch of Japanese aesthetics, “If We’re to Die Together, Then With the Snake Woman in the Manor” is also a must-listen for its exotic worldview.

This track, produced by SLAVE.

V-V-R, unfolds a story like none you’ve seen before.

Its premise features a snake that has become a spirit and takes human form, and parts of the lyrics are sung in “snake language.” The subtitles reveal what’s being said, so be sure to check out the music video.

Also, pay close attention to how the story ends.

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I keep a cat in my mind.beco

[Hatsune Miku] Keeping a Cat in My Mind – beco

Beco, who keeps a cat in his mind

If you like band sounds and upbeat dance rock, be sure to check this out! This Vocaloid track by beco—who has also released many instrumental numbers under the name “Noiseless World”—was published in March 2023 and was an entry for VocaColle Spring 2023.

The riffs and phrases are fantastic; if you can play guitar, you’ll probably want to try them yourself.

The humorous, cat-themed lyrics are another highlight of its worldbuilding.

If you’re looking for a song to cover with your band, why not give it a shot?

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[Latest & Timeless] Rock Vocaloid Song Special [VOCAROCK] (171–180)

slightly spicyKuritanika

Kasukabe Tsumugi “Pirikara”

Pirikara Kuritanika

This is a Vocaloid track with a delightfully crisp tone that makes you want to start dancing.

It’s by the Vocaloid producer Kuritanika, who also created “Apollo” and “Tarante La Musica,” and it was released in June 2023.

If you’re into dance rock, this is a must-listen.

The flow and rhythm of the lyrics feel incredibly satisfying.

And the standout feature of this work is that it’s sung by VOICEVOX Kasukabe Tsumugi.

Since VOICEVOX is software that reads out typed text, it doesn’t actually have a “singing” function.

You can really see Kuritanika’s technical prowess.

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Additional Memoryjin

JIN − Additional Memory

Additional Memory Jin

If you’ve ever been into the Kagerou Project series, you probably know this one! Additional Memory, released in 2018 by Jin (aka Shizen no Teki-P), is a piece centered on Ayano, a character from KagePro.

It’s a fast-unfolding piano rock number whose intense arrangement really gets your heart racing.

The lyrics trace Ayano’s emotions, and if you know the story, they’ll hit hard.

By the way, it’s included on the album Mekakucity Reload, released the same year.

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Nukega Ridescrew-type

[Yuzuki Yukari] Slough Ride [Original] / [Yukari Yuzuki] Slough Ride [Original]

Nukegara-ride screw type

This is a cool dance-rock style Vocaloid track built around a four-on-the-floor beat.

It’s a song by Vocaloid producer Nejishiki—known for popular tracks like “Freedom Lolita” and “Copyright”—released in 2016.

The sharp guitar riffs are the first thing that sticks in your ears! In contrast, Yuzuki Yukari’s somewhat wistful vocals are also striking.

The lyrics—“Shed your current self and become someone new”—are stirring and ignite a fighting spirit.

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Past Recollection DiaryHaruna.

Haruna. “Past Recollection Diary” feat. Hatsune Miku

Past recollection diary, Haruna.

The resounding tones of piano and guitar pierce straight through the heart.

It’s a track by Vocaloid producer Haruna, released in June 2023.

The fast, driving tempo feels emotional—by the time you finish listening, you might be swept up in nostalgia and even shed a tear.

The lyrics, which express feelings for a cherished “you,” really hit home as well.

It’s part of the series that began with “Future Creation Diary,” released in 2022, so if you haven’t heard that yet, be sure to give it a listen too!

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listAsai Umi

List / Otomachi Una Restart feat. Una Otomachi

Restore Saiumi

A piano rock number that blends a sense of speed with bittersweet emotion, evoking the end of summer.

“List,” produced by Vocaloid creator Asai Umi, was released in 2019.

Its powerful yet fragile band sound is deeply moving.

Pay special attention to Una’s high-tone vocals in the chorus—they’re one of the elements that amplify the song’s momentum.

Caught up in the protagonist’s wish to “see someone important,” I can’t help but transpose it onto my own feelings as I listen.

Turn up the volume and enjoy.

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