Tokyo Noizu Osusume

About DIR EN GREY

Formed in Osaka in 1997, DIR EN GREY have become one of Japan's most internationally recognised rock and metal bands, developing a sound that has continued to evolve throughout their career.

If you're new to DIR EN GREY, these are the five songs we recommend starting with.

5 Songs We Recommend

1. THE FINAL

Album: Withering to death. (2005)

Originally released as: Single (2004)

Why we recommend it

This is where we would start.

THE FINAL captures DIR EN GREY's ability to combine emotional songwriting with a heavier rock sound, making it one of the tracks that introduced many listeners to their music internationally.

While the band would continue exploring darker and more experimental territory in later years, this remains an important chapter in understanding their evolution and a natural entry point into their catalogue.

2. 人間を被る (Ningen wo Kaburu)

Album: The Insulated World (2018)

Originally released as: Single (2018)

Why we recommend it

Released more than two decades after the band's formation, 人間を被る represents the heavier direction DIR EN GREY continued developing throughout their later years.

The track showcases the intensity and unpredictability that became central to their modern work, while still maintaining the atmosphere and songwriting approach that runs throughout their catalogue.

For listeners discovering DIR EN GREY through their earlier material, this track provides a clear example of how far the band continued to push their sound.

3. 鱗 (Uroko)

Album: ARCHE (2014)

Why we recommend it

DIR EN GREY's catalogue is not only defined by heaviness, and 鱗 (Uroko) is a strong example of the band's more atmospheric and experimental side.

Taken from ARCHE, the track highlights their ability to create contrast, emotion and atmosphere within their songwriting, showing a different side of the band beyond their more aggressive material.

It represents an era where DIR EN GREY continued refining their sound while exploring new creative directions.

4. THE IIID EMPIRE

Album: VULGAR (2003)

Why we recommend it

Taken from VULGAR, THE IIID EMPIRE represents an important stage in DIR EN GREY's development.

The track captures the darker atmosphere and heavier approach explored during this period, offering a glimpse into the evolution between their earlier visual kei roots and the increasingly complex sound that followed.

For listeners wanting to understand the progression of DIR EN GREY, this era is essential.

5. The Devil In Me

Album: MORTAL DOWNER (2026)

Originally released as: Single (2024)

Why we recommend it

Our final recommendation brings DIR EN GREY into their latest chapter.

Originally released as a single in 2024 before appearing on MORTAL DOWNER, The Devil In Me represents a band that continues to evolve rather than simply revisit their past.

Combining intensity, atmosphere and experimentation, the track provides a strong introduction to where DIR EN GREY continue to move today.

If You Like DIR EN GREY, You May Also Like...

the GazettE - For listeners interested in another influential Japanese band that developed from visual kei roots while exploring darker and heavier sounds.

MUCC - Recommended for fans of Japanese rock that balances emotional songwriting with heavier and experimental elements.

DEZERT - For listeners looking to explore a newer generation of Japanese rock influenced by the darker side of the scene.

Tokyo Noizu Coverage

A–Z Band Profile: Explore DIR EN GREY's history, musical style, notable releases and key milestones.

Listen to the Full Playlist

Continue your DIR EN GREY journey with the complete Tokyo Noizu Osusume playlist on Spotify.

About HANABIE.

Formed in Tokyo in 2015, HANABIE. have developed their own style of music known as “Harajuku Core”, combining elements of metal, hardcore, pop and Japanese pop culture into a sound that is uniquely their own.

Built around heavy riffs, aggressive vocals, catchy melodies and a bold visual identity, the band creates a contrast between extreme musical energy and the colourful creativity associated with Harajuku culture.

If you're new to HANABIE., these are the five songs we recommend starting with.

5 Songs We Recommend

1. Warning!!

Album: Reborn Superstar! (2023)

Why we recommend it:

This is where we would begin.

Warning!! is a strong introduction to the contrast that is central to HANABIE.’s Harajuku Core identity.

The track combines aggressive riffs, sudden changes in direction and memorable hooks, showing how the band can move between extreme heaviness and playful creativity without losing their own character.

Taken from Reborn Superstar!, Warning!! represents the modern HANABIE. approach — a balance of metal intensity, melody and personality that makes the band stand apart.

For new listeners, Warning!! is not simply an example of how heavy HANABIE. can be; it is an example of how much identity they bring into that heaviness.

2. Spicy Queen

Originally released as: Single (2025)

EP: HOT TOPIC (2026)

Why we recommend it:

Spicy Queen is a track that connects HANABIE.’s past with their present.

The song was created as a counterpart to WE LOVE SWEETS, a track that became closely associated with HANABIE.’s identity and was an important entry point for many fans discovering the band.

Where WE LOVE SWEETS explored the “sweet” side of HANABIE.’s world, Spicy Queen takes that idea in a different direction, reflecting how the band have continued to develop their sound while keeping the personality that makes them recognisable.

For new listeners, Spicy Queen is a great example of HANABIE. understanding their own identity and continuing to expand it.

3. Invisible wall

Album: Girl's Reform Manifest (2021)

Why we recommend it:

Invisible wall gives listeners a look into an earlier stage of HANABIE.’s catalogue.

Taken from Girl's Reform Manifest, the track shows the foundations of the band’s approach — heavy instrumentation, sharp contrasts and a willingness to combine different musical influences into something uniquely their own.

For listeners discovering HANABIE. through newer material, Invisible wall offers a chance to explore the ideas that helped shape the band’s Harajuku Core identity.

4. KaruGaru Everyday!!

Release: Single (2025)

Anime Theme Song: Araiguma Calcal-dan

Why we recommend it:

KaruGaru Everyday!! highlights another side of HANABIE.’s creativity.

Released as the theme song for the anime Araiguma Calcal-dan, the track shows how the band can bring their distinctive approach into a different creative setting while maintaining their own identity.

The song captures the contrast that makes HANABIE. unique: the ability to combine their heavy foundations with a more playful, colourful and accessible side of their songwriting.

For new listeners, it demonstrates why the band’s Harajuku Core concept works so well — it is not simply about combining genres, but about bringing different parts of Japanese culture and personality together through heavy music.

5. ICONIC

Originally released as: Single (2026)

EP: HOT TOPIC (2026)

Why we recommend it:

Opening the HOT TOPIC EP, ICONIC provides a snapshot of HANABIE.’s current direction.

The track showcases the combination that has become central to the band’s identity: heavy musical foundations, memorable songwriting and a visual world that feels completely their own.

For listeners discovering HANABIE. today, ICONIC represents a band that has developed a recognisable style while continuing to explore what their Harajuku Core sound can become.

If You Like HANABIE. You May Also Like…

Maximum the Hormone - For listeners who enjoy unpredictable arrangements, extreme changes in style and a band that refuses to stay within traditional genre boundaries.

PassCode - For fans interested in another Japanese act that combines heavy music, electronic influences and an energetic performance style.

Broken By The Scream - Recommended for listeners looking for another Japanese heavy act that blends extreme vocals, melody and a distinctive visual identity.

Tokyo Noizu Coverage:

A–Z Band Profile: Explore HANABIE.’s history, musical style, notable releases and key milestones.

Listen to the Full Playlist

Continue your HANABIE. journey with the complete Tokyo Noizu Osusume playlist on Spotify.

About FATE GEAR

Formed in Tokyo in 2015 by guitarist, composer and founder Captain Mina, FATE GEAR has built a distinctive identity through heavy metal, fantasy-inspired storytelling and a strong visual world that connects their music and creative concepts.

Combining heavy metal influences with dramatic arrangements and fantasy-inspired themes, FATE GEAR have created a sound that connects traditional metal influences with their own unique creative universe.

If you're new to FATE GEAR, these are the five songs we recommend starting with.

5 Songs We Recommend

1. Kill the Shadow King (feat. NANA & Hime Hashimura)

Album: Kill the Shadow King (2024)

Why we recommend it

As the title track from Kill the Shadow King, this song introduces the darker chapter of FATE GEAR's continuing fantasy world while bringing together guest vocalists NANA and Hime Hashimura.

It provides a strong introduction to the band's modern sound, combining heavy metal foundations with storytelling and atmosphere that have become central to the FATE GEAR identity.

2. Super Sonic Samurai

Originally released on: Battle Against Justice single (2021)

Release type: Coupling/B-side track

Why we recommend it

Super Sonic Samurai shows another side of FATE GEAR's catalogue.

While the band are known for their original fantasy-driven compositions, this track highlights their ability to explore different approaches to heavy metal while maintaining the energy and musicianship that define the project.

As a coupling track from Battle Against Justice, it is also a reminder that some of the most interesting discoveries can come from exploring beyond the main album releases.

3. The Aggressor (feat. okogeeechann)

Originally released as: Digital Single (2026)

EP: 冥王と慈愛の天使 (When the Angel Fell for the Devil) (2026)

Why we recommend it

The Aggressor represents the latest chapter of FATE GEAR's evolving world.

Originally released as a digital single before appearing on 冥王と慈愛の天使 (When the Angel Fell for the Devil), the track introduces listeners to the darker direction explored throughout this release.

Featuring okogeeechann, it also highlights FATE GEAR's continued use of collaboration as part of their storytelling, while showing how Captain Mina continues to expand the project's musical universe.

4. MEGABULLETS

Album: Headless Goddess (2019)

Why we recommend it

MEGABULLETS is one of the tracks that helped introduce FATE GEAR to a wider audience.

The song gained additional attention through its connection with the Netflix anime Kengan Ashura, where it was selected as the entrance theme for the character Mikazuchi Rei.

Beyond that association, MEGABULLETS remains an important track within the FATE GEAR catalogue, capturing the band's energetic songwriting style and ability to create memorable heavy metal songs.

5. Unbreakable Wings (feat. NANA)

EP: Killers in the Sky Part 2 (2022)

Why we recommend it

Unbreakable Wings combines the dramatic songwriting approach of FATE GEAR with guest vocals from NANA.

The track also represents one of the band's most ambitious visual productions, with the music video filmed at Japan Air Self-Defense Force Iruma Air Base.

It is a strong example of how FATE GEAR connect their music, imagery and concepts into a complete creative experience.

If You Like FATE GEAR, You May Also Like...

LOVEBITES - For fans looking to explore another Japanese metal band known for powerful performances, technical musicianship and a strong heavy metal foundation.

Aldious - A natural next step for listeners interested in Japanese female-led metal with strong guitar work and memorable songwriting.

Mary's Blood - Recommended for fans who enjoy energetic Japanese metal with a strong live identity and distinctive vocal style.

Tokyo Noizu Coverage:

A–Z Band Profile: Explore FATE GEAR's history, musical style, notable releases and key milestones.

Interview: FATE GEAR Guitarist & Composer Captain Mina

Listen to the Full Playlist

Continue your journey with the complete Tokyo Noizu Osusume playlist on Spotify.

About SiM

Formed in Shonan, Kanagawa in 2004, SiM have built a distinctive sound by combining elements of punk, reggae, metal and rock.

Led by vocalist and songwriter MAH, the band have developed a style that moves between aggressive energy, memorable hooks and genre-crossing experimentation.

Internationally, many listeners discovered SiM through “The Rumbling”, their 2022 opening theme for Attack on Titan: The Final Season Part 2. While that song introduced the band to a huge new audience, their catalogue stretches back many years and shows the evolution of their sound across multiple eras.

If you're new to SiM, these are the five songs we recommend starting with.

5 Songs We Recommend

1. KiLLiNG ME

Album: SEEDS OF HOPE (2011)

Why we recommend it

This is where we would begin.

KiLLiNG ME captures the foundations of SiM's sound, combining heavy guitar-driven rock with reggae influences and MAH's distinctive vocal approach.

Taken from SEEDS OF HOPE, the track represents an important stage in the band's development and remains one of the clearest introductions to the balance of heaviness, rhythm and attitude that defines SiM.

2. Blah Blah Blah

Album: PANDORA (2013)

Why we recommend it

Blah Blah Blah is a strong example of SiM's ability to combine different influences without losing their identity.

The track balances energetic rhythms, memorable hooks and the band's trademark attitude, showing how SiM continued expanding their sound beyond straightforward rock structures.

For listeners discovering SiM after The Rumbling, this track offers a look at the creativity that had already been developing throughout their earlier career.

3. RED

Album: PLAYDEAD (2023)

 Originally released as: Single (2023)

Why we recommend it

RED represents SiM's modern era and the direction the band continued moving after years of experimentation.

Released as a single before appearing on PLAYDEAD, the track showcases a more refined approach to songwriting while keeping the energy and intensity that have always been central to SiM.

It is a strong example of a band that has continued evolving without losing the identity that made them stand out.

4. Make Me Dead!

Album: THE BEAUTiFUL PEOPLE (2016)

Why we recommend it

For listeners looking for the heavier side of SiM, Make Me Dead! is an essential choice.

The track highlights the band's aggressive edge through intense arrangements and powerful vocal delivery, showing another side of the sound explored throughout THE BEAUTiFUL PEOPLE era.

It demonstrates that SiM's appeal has always come from their ability to move between different styles while maintaining a recognisable identity.

5. BLiNDEYES (feat. HANABIE.)

Release: Single (2026)

Why we recommend it

Our final recommendation brings SiM into their latest chapter.

BLiNDEYES connects SiM with HANABIE., bringing together one of Japan's established heavy music acts with one of the newer generations of the scene.

Released as a standalone single, the track represents SiM's continuing willingness to collaborate and explore new directions while remaining connected to Japan's evolving rock and metal community.

If You Like SiM, You May Also Like...

Maximum the Hormone - For listeners who enjoy unpredictable arrangements, heavy riffs and a band that refuses to stay within one genre. Their ability to move between extreme heaviness, punk energy and unexpected musical changes makes them a natural recommendation for SiM fans.

coldrain - For fans of powerful vocals, modern rock and heavy guitar-driven songwriting with an international approach.

Paledusk - For listeners looking to explore a newer generation of Japanese heavy music that blends metal, hardcore and alternative influences.

Tokyo Noizu Coverage

A–Z Band Profile Explore SiM's history, musical style, notable releases and key milestones.

Interview: SiM (Silence iz Mine) Songwriter & Vocalist MAH

Listen to the Full Playlist

Continue your journey with the complete Tokyo Noizu Osusume playlist on Spotify.