This thread still going? OK than, going to recommend an artist I just discovered. The band itself is new (well, fairly new as in their major debut was only recently this year).

Its an all-girl rock band called Akai Koen (Red Garden). They have their own unique sound that I am quite impressed by. The band leader, Maisa Tsuno, is a very talented guitarist and songwriter who is highly regarded in the industry despite her young age.




The fact that Japan still has talented artists popping up from the indies scene is why Jpop > Kpop anyday.