Loudness - Hurricane Eyes - 12" Vinyl LP Album

Loudness' 'Hurricane Eyes' 12" Vinyl LP Album, enriched by background vocals from Ace Frehley of KISS, is a pinnacle of Japanese heavy metal. Released with thunderous energy in the 1980s, the album showcases Loudness' mastery. With powerful vocals and intricate instrumentals, 'Hurricane Eyes' stands as a testament to the band's international collaboration and enduring influence in the global metal scene.

 

High Resolution Photo Loudness Hurricane Eyes

Album Description:

In the realm of rock and heavy metal music, few albums possess the raw energy and melodic prowess as Loudness' "Hurricane Eyes". Released in the 1980s, this iconic album quickly gained popularity and solidified Loudness as one of Japan's most influential rock bands. Notably, the album features a surprising collaboration with Ace Frehley, known for his role as the lead guitarist of KISS. This essay explores the significance of Loudness' "Hurricane Eyes" as a 12" vinyl LP and delves into the impact of Ace Frehley's background vocals on the album.

The Emergence of "Hurricane Eyes":
Released in 1987, "Hurricane Eyes" marked a turning point in Loudness' career. With this album, the band struck a perfect balance between their heavy metal roots and a more melodic sound, captivating fans across the globe. Loudness, comprised of Akira Takasaki (guitar), Masayoshi Yamashita (bass), Minoru Niihara (vocals), and Munetaka Higuchi (drums), showcased their exceptional musicianship and songwriting abilities throughout the record.

Ace Frehley's Contribution:
One of the album's intriguing aspects was the unexpected involvement of Ace Frehley, an iconic figure in the rock world. As a member of KISS, Frehley had established himself as a legendary guitarist, known for his charismatic stage presence and unique playing style. His collaboration with Loudness on "Hurricane Eyes" added an extra layer of excitement and allure to the album.

Frehley's Background Vocals:
Ace Frehley's contribution to "Hurricane Eyes" primarily manifested in his background vocals. While not taking on a lead vocal role, his backing harmonies and occasional interjections added a distinctive flavor to the album's sound. Frehley's vocal prowess complemented the melodic nature of the album, enhancing the overall sonic experience for the listeners.

Impacts and Significance:
The inclusion of Ace Frehley on "Hurricane Eyes" had multiple significant impacts. Firstly, it created a bridge between the Japanese rock scene and the international rock community, further highlighting the globalization of music during that era. Frehley's participation showcased the recognition and admiration of Loudness within the rock fraternity, elevating their status as a formidable force in the genre.

Additionally, the collaboration brought together two legendary guitarists, Akira Takasaki and Ace Frehley, leading to a harmonious exchange of musical ideas. Takasaki's virtuoso guitar skills were complemented by Frehley's unique style, resulting in memorable guitar-driven compositions throughout the album. This fusion of talent elevated the quality and diversity of the tracks, contributing to the album's enduring appeal.

Music Genre:

  Japanese Heavy Metal Music

Album  Production information:

Produced by Eddie Kramer for Remarkable Productions Inc Onkio House, Sedic Studios, Tokyo

Eddie Kramer: Iconic producer & engineer behind Hendrix, Zeppelin, & many more. Explore his life & work that shaped rock music history.

 

Sound City, Encore, & Yamaha Studios, Los Angeles, CA Bearsville Studios, Bearsville, NY

Tory Swenson - Sound Engineer

Thom Cadley - Sound Engineer

Hidemi Nakatani - Sound Engineer

Bill Freesh - Sound Engineer

Scott Mabuchi - Sound Mix Engineer

Masashi Got? - Sound Engineer

Ted Jensen - Mastering Engineer

Media Format:

  12" LP Vinyl Gramophone Record 

Year & Country:

  1987 Made in Germany
Album cover photos of : Loudness Hurricane Eyes
High Resolution Photo Loudness Hurricane Eyes  
Photo of Album's Back Cover  
High Resolution Photo Loudness Hurricane Eyes  
Photo of Record Label 
High Resolution Photo Loudness Hurricane Eyes  

 Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ).

Band Members and Musicians on: Loudness Hurricane Eyes
    Loudness' Band-members, Musicians and Performers
  • Guitars: Takasaki Akira ( Takasaki Akira (Guitars) is an experienced guitarist having played guitar since 1973 in at least half a dozen bands, notable Loudness and M.T. Fuji.)
  • Vocals: Niihara Minoru (Niihara Minoru (Lead Vocals) is an experienced singer having sung since 1978 in at least half a dozen bands, notable Loudness, Earthshaker and M.T. Fuji.)
  • Bass: Yamashita Masayoshi (Yamashita Masayoshi (Bass) is an bass player having played bass since 1982 in half a dozen bands, notable Loudness, and M.T. Fuji.)
  • Drums: Higuchi Munetaka (Higuchi Munetaka (1958-2008) (Drums) is a drummer having played drums since 1981 in half a dozen bands, notable Loudness, Blood Circus, Lazy, Misako Honjoh, Sly.)
Track Listing of: Loudness Hurricane Eyes
    The Song/tracks on "Hurricane Eyes" are:
  • S.D.I. (4'15 )
  • This Lonely Heart (4'08 )
  • Rock 'n' Roll Gypsy (4'22 )
  • In my Dreams (4'30 )
  • Take me Home (4'16 )
  • Strike of the Sword (3'50 )
  • Rock this Way (4'07 )
  • In This World Beyond (4'26 )
  • Hungry Hunter (4'08 )
  • So Lonely (4'43 )
LOUDNESS - Hurricane Eyes 12" Vinyl LP
LOUDNESS - Hurricane Eyes album front cover vinyl record

In the realm of rock and heavy metal music, few albums possess the raw energy and melodic prowess as Loudness' "Hurricane Eyes". Released in the 1980s, this iconic album quickly gained popularity and solidified Loudness as one of Japan's most influential rock bands.

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LOUDNESS - Lightning Strikes  album front cover vinyl record

"Lightning Strikes" was a testament to Loudness' musical exploration. While retaining their signature heavy sound, the album incorporated elements of hard rock and even hints of commercial appeal. Songs like "Let It Go" and "1000 Eyes" showcased their ability to write catchy anthems

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