The Japanese word for music is 音楽 (ongaku) -- "pleasant sound."
Japan is very well known for its unique music's sound, be it traditional or modern. Let's take a look at it, shall we?
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Unless you live under a rock, you've probably heard of Kyary Pamyu Pamyu (きゃりーぱみゅぱみゅ).
Kyary is a solo act and currently the most well-known Japanese singer (and self-proclaimed Kawaii Ambassador) outside of Japan. Her most popular songs are "Ponponpon" and "Ninjari Bang Bang." Her unique sound includes cutesy tones and lyrics coupled with upbeat electronic sounds. |
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Another popular group is Momoiro Clover Z, a band comprised of five girls. Their popularity scored them an opportunity to sing the theme for the Sailor Moon reboot as well as a cover of the old theme.
Another song of theirs, "Nippon Egao Hyakkei" went viral on the internet as well. |
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Yet another group that went viral on the internet is DOLL$BOXX, a borderline metal group make up of members of several other bands as a side project.
The band's gimmick is cutesy imagery that lulls the audience into a false sense of security before the powerful vocals and chords take them all by surprise and it is revealed that they are, in fact, a metal band. |
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To continue the trend of internet-famous Japanese bands comes BABYMETAL.
Like DOLL$BOXX, they are a cutesy metal band, but unlike them, The trio embraces that cute and metal aren't mutually exclusive of one another -- you can be both. They are most renowned for their song "Megitsune" which protests the notion that women are foxes with deceit set in their hearts. |
If you're looking for a more techno sound to listen to, Capsule may be a good fit.
The duo formed in the late 90s, continuing on into the present day, and has made numerous singles and albums with their music being featured in several television spots and programs. Their work features heavy use of synthesizers and futuristic, electronic sounds. One member of the duo is responsible for the girl group Perfume's success as well as Kyary Pamyu Pamyu's. |
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