Lovely Western music

Recommendation of Western Rock: Recommended Foreign Rock Bands, Popular Bands

Editor-in-Chief, RAG MUSICKeisuke Hane
Editor-in-chief of RAG MUSIC. After working at a music studio and in wedding sound engineering, joined the RAG MUSIC editorial team in 2016. Experienced with various instruments: marching band in elementary school, clarinet in middle school wind ensemble, and drums in a band from high school onward. Drawing on personal music activities and professional experience, produces daily articles, including song introductions, features on music festivals around Japan, and live reports. Enjoys a wide range of music, from domestic and international rock to, more recently, a broad spectrum of J-pop.
music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and have been contributing to music magazines and web media for over 15 years. Although Western music is my main field, I always strive to stay curious with the motto, “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in a band, where I was a bassist responsible for songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve performed on include bass, guitar, and piano. I resumed piano lessons after turning 40 and have been continuing ever since!

You still hear people say things like, “I listen to Japanese rock bands, but I’m not so good with Western music,” even today, when it’s easier than ever to listen online to music from any era and anywhere in the world from the comfort of your home.

There are many reasons for this, but it seems some people feel a hurdle simply because the lyrics aren’t in Japanese.

So this time, we’ll introduce recommended Western rock bands for those who are thinking of getting into Western rock.

From legendary big names to bands lighting up the 2020s, we’ve picked a diverse lineup to enjoy!

Recommendation of Western Rock: Recommended Western Bands, Popular Bands (71–80)

Pull Me UnderDream Theater

Dream Theater – Pull Me Under [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

Pull Me UnderDream Theater

Dream Theater is a progressive metal band that represents the United States.

Formed in 1985, they released their debut album, When Dream and Day Unite, in 1989.

With a hit from their second album, Images and Words (1992), they gained worldwide acclaim.

Since then, they have continued to release numerous classic albums and remain at the forefront of the scene, even earning a Grammy nomination for a track in 2013.

Their appeal lies in complex song structures, virtuosic musicianship, and a grand, immersive worldview.

Blending elements of progressive rock and heavy metal, their distinctive sound captivates music lovers and never lets go.

Despite the high level of difficulty in their compositions, they also feature compelling melodies that draw listeners in.

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Mary Queen Of Scotseugenius

Eugenius – Mary Queen Of Scots

Mary Queen Of Scotseugenius

There are many Nirvana fans in Japan, but fans of this band are very few.

Since Kurt openly said he wanted to be the band’s Eugenes, please give them a listen and experience their guitar music for yourself.

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More Than WordsExtreme

Extreme – More Than Words (Official Music Video)

More Than WordsExtreme

Extreme, formed in Massachusetts, USA, in 1985, are known for their unique sound rooted in heavy metal and hard rock, while incorporating elements of funk and glam metal.

Their 1990 album “Extreme II: Pornograffitti” was a major hit, and a ballad from the album reached No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

The musical blend of Gary Cherone’s vocals and Nuno Bettencourt’s guitar work shows influences from Queen and Aerosmith, characterized by joyful, groovy tracks.

Their appearance at the 1992 Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert won them even more fans.

Highly recommended if you want to experience classic, straight-ahead rock!

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West CoastFIDLAR

FIDLAR – West Coast (Official Music Video)

West CoastFIDLAR

Do you know what punk rock is? You might think, “Isn’t that old music?” but punk bands still exist, and their brilliance continues to shine untarnished.

The four-piece California-based band FIDLAR is a top-tier punk band that hurls that kind of youthful radiance straight at you.

Their name comes from “Fuck It Dawg, Life Is a Risk,” shortened to FIDLAR.

They make you feel that guys can stay foolish forever—and that there’s something cool about that.

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SkylineFKJ

FKJ – Skyline

SkylineFKJ

Fkj is a French band created by a Paris-based creator of New Zealand descent, known for mellow sounds and sophisticated compositions.

Their charming, elegantly chill vibe really stands out, and the beats have a distinctive feel.

It all comes across as very stylish—in a good way, distinctly French.

The soft, gentle tone of their music is especially memorable.

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Talk You Out Of ItFlorida Georgia Line

Florida Georgia Line – Talk You Out Of It

Talk You Out Of ItFlorida Georgia Line

Florida Georgia Line is a high-profile country band that has won numerous awards, including top honors at the Billboard Music Awards.

After graduating from college, the two members reportedly worked day and night for their music.

Their style is solid, straight-ahead country, marked by slightly husky vocals, and they’ve been racking up award after award.

They’re a band you just can’t take your eyes off!

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The PretenderFoo Fighters

Foo Fighters – The Pretender

The PretenderFoo Fighters

Nirvana, whose history came to an end with the death of Kurt Cobain, a frontman with an overwhelming magnetic presence.

While every fan was steeped in grief, one person rose to his feet.

Dave Grohl, who had played drums in Nirvana, took the helm and launched Foo Fighters, with himself as the frontman handling vocals and guitar.

Their sound shifted dramatically from Nirvana’s grunge days, featuring many bright and catchy songs, and as a result they became a global band supported by a wide range of listeners.

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