Bands & artists like X Japan
If you like X Japan, these artists play in similar sounds, ideas, or styles. Use this as a starting point to branch out and find something new to listen to.
New to X Japan? Start with our listening guide.
Artists to try next
Loudness
As pioneers of Japanese heavy metal, their intricate guitar work and melodic hooks resonate with X Japan's powerful sound.
Galneryus
Their blend of neoclassical metal and soaring vocals mirrors the dramatic melodies and intensity found in X Japan's music.
Malice Mizer
Their theatrical approach to rock, combined with complex arrangements and emotional delivery, aligns well with X Japan's style.
Dir En Grey
GuideKnown for their dynamic shifts between melodic and aggressive passages, they share a similar tension and release in their music.
Angra
Their progressive metal sound features intricate guitar solos and symphonic elements that echo the complexity of X Japan's work.
Nightwish
GuideWith their fusion of metal and orchestral arrangements, Nightwish captures a grandiose sound reminiscent of X Japan's epic nature.
Helloween
GuideTheir melodic power metal style, characterized by soaring vocals and harmonized guitars, aligns closely with X Japan's musical ethos.
Kreator
As a thrash metal band with melodic elements, their intense energy parallels the heavier aspects of X Japan's music.
Common questions
Who sounds like X Japan?
Artists similar to X Japan include Loudness, Galneryus, Malice Mizer and Dir En Grey. Each shares elements of X Japan's sound while bringing their own perspective.
What genre is X Japan?
X Japan is primarily known for heavy metal and progressive metal. A powerful interplay of soaring melodies and thunderous rhythms creates a dense atmosphere charged with tension and release.
Where should I start if I like X Japan?
If you enjoy X Japan, start with Loudness — their album "Devil Soldier" is a great entry point. As pioneers of Japanese heavy metal, their intricate guitar work and melodic hooks resonate with X Japan's powerful sound.