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

Dracula MountainLightning Bolt

Lightning Bolt ” Dracula Mountain “

If you’re looking for intense rock, I think this band is the best.

As you can see in this video, their live shows are pure chaos.

This is what the word “rock” was originally meant to describe, and once you get used to this sound, you’ll likely feel repulsed by so-called commercial rock.

LovefoolCardigans

The Cardigans – Lovefool (Official Music Video)

They’re a rock band from Sweden, the musical powerhouse, that was active in the ’90s.

Above all, they were cute and pop, leaving an impact as a new fashion icon.

A bit retro, yet their fresh musical approach is irresistibly catchy.

It’s the kind of stylish rock sound that makes you want to stroll through the city listening to The Cardigans—so satisfying.

Highway TuneGreta Van Fleet

Greta Van Fleet – Highway Tune (Official Video)

Greta Van Fleet is an American rock band.

Formed in 2012 and debuting in 2017, they are a relatively recent young band, and in 2018 they were nominated in four categories at the 61st Grammy Awards, including Best New Artist.

Their sound is often compared to Led Zeppelin—enough to make old-school rock fans grin—but perhaps history comes full circle; many listeners will sense new possibilities in a young band’s respectful embrace of its roots.

It’s an exciting band to watch as we look forward to the music they will create next.

Moving OnJames

James – Moving On

James are largely ignored in Japan, but they’re a really outstanding rock band.

They’re from Manchester, a city I love, and they’re popular there, which is what matters most.

This is another band I recommend to music lovers.

The House That Heaven BuiltJapandroids

Japandroids – “The House That Heaven Built” (Official Music Video)

Japandroids are a two-piece band from Canada.

Despite their simple setup of guitar/vocals and drums/vocals, the intensity you can feel even on their recordings is truly remarkable.

And they’re not a band that relies on sheer energy alone—their catchy melodies and anthemic choruses are real strengths that make their songs genuinely resonant.

Definitely give them a listen.

Hostage StampsAt The Drive-In

At The Drive In – Hostage Stamps (Official Music Video)

One big reason Western music is so great is that it offers sensations you just can’t get from listening to Japanese bands.

At The Drive-In embodies that in a huge way—they’re a fantastic band.

They became famous as one of the most accomplished bands of the ’90s, so many of you may already know them.

Their approach is so diverse you’ll wonder what kind of music they must have listened to in order to end up like this.

And yet it’s never hard to grasp; like it or not, they’ll crank your adrenaline.

They’re the ultimate rock band.

To Be With YouMr. BIG

Mr. Big – To Be With You 4K Video

An American hard rock band whose members all possess superhuman musicianship, yet whose playing shines by always putting the song first.

From their massive hit “To Be With You” onward, their arrangements that spotlight emotional vocals have captivated many rock fans.

They are also known for their strong bond with Japan: in the wake of the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, they were among the first foreign artists to perform in the affected areas and organize fundraising efforts out of a desire to lift the spirits of people in Tohoku through music.

If you want to get into Western rock but aren’t sure where to start, there’s no better introductory band than this.