SILVER STARS see TRSH-1004

Let’s delve into the second album from the fascinating Japanese band Silver Stars, “See.” Released in 1980 on the Trash label (Trio Records) with the catalog number TRSH-1004, this 12-inch vinyl LP marked a significant evolution from their debut. This particular copy includes the original obi strip.

Unlike their eclectic, synth-pop-infused debut “Ginseidan,” “See” finds the band transforming into a “masked” group, delivering a solid, straightforward hard rock sound. All the techno-pop elements were gone, replaced by powerful, melodic hard rock sung entirely in English, with a new member taking over lead vocal duties.

This album is often hailed as their best work, presented as a concept album following the story of Marco Polo across its 10 tracks, including the standout opener “Marco Polo.” It’s praised for its solid, catchy hard rock sound and excellent melodic twin-lead guitar work, appealing to fans of classic, Bon Jovi-style rock.

While the band maintained an air of mystery, it’s widely understood that Silver Stars was a “masked” project centered around the legendary guitarist Kyoji Yamamoto (Bow Wow), showcasing his talents in a different, solid hard rock context.

“See” (TRSH-1004) stands as a high-quality, melodic hard rock album from the era, highly sought after by collectors for its fantastic music and its connection to one of Japan’s guitar legends. The release came with an obi and a dedicated inner sleeve bag with liner notes and lyrics.