ANTHEM bound to break K28P655

This entry focuses on what many consider to be Anthem’s ultimate masterpiece, “Bound To Break.” Released on March 5, 1987, via the Nexus label (King Records), this 12-inch vinyl LP (catalog number K28P 655) represents a pinnacle of 80s Japanese heavy metal. This copy retains its original obi/sticker on the cover.

As Anthem’s third studio album, “Bound To Break” marked a massive leap forward. Produced and engineered by the legendary Chris Tsangarides (Judas Priest, Thin Lizzy) and mastered by Bob Ludwig at Masterdisk, the album boasts a world-class, powerful sound. This release elevated Anthem to the same level as other major Japanese acts like Loudness and Earthshaker.

The album is widely hailed as a “no-filler” classic, packed with high-quality, orthodox heavy metal anthems. It features the definitive title track “Bound To Break,” the powerful English-language track “Show Must Go On!,” and fan-favorite “Soldiers.” The album showcases the classic lineup at its absolute peak: Eizo Sakamoto’s powerful “straight-ball” vocals, Hiroya Fukuda’s guitar work, Takamasa “Mad” Ohuchi’s drums, and Naoto Shibata’s driving bass and songwriting.

“Bound To Break” (K28P 655) received immense critical acclaim, including a legendary 96/100 score in BURRN! magazine. It’s considered not just Anthem’s best work of that era, but one of the all-time great J-Metal albums. Tragically, it was also the final studio album with original vocalist Eizo Sakamoto, who departed after the subsequent tour, marking the end of a beloved chapter. The original release came with a gatefold insert, merchandise flyer, and sometimes a poster or autographed insert.