HAMADA, MARI promise in the history VIH-28267

A Pivotal Moment in History: Mari Hamada’s ‘Promise In The History’ (VIH-28267)

Let’s explore the sixth studio album from Japanese rock vocalist Mari Hamada, “Promise In The History.” Released on September 5, 1986, via the Invitation label (Victor), this 8-track, 12-inch vinyl LP (catalog number VIH-28267) captures a key transitional moment in her sound. This copy includes the original obisticker on the cover.

Following the acclaimed “Blue Revolution,” this album further saw Hamada moving from her pure heavy metal roots toward a more polished, accessible sound, yet it’s often considered the last album of her initial era to retain significant metal elements. Produced by Hamada herself and arranged by the “H.M. Project,” the album masterfully balances high-quality, catchy songs with harder-edged tracks.

The album is packed with top-tier musicianship, featuring the notable guitar work of Takahiro “Tak” Matsumoto (later of B’z) and keyboard contributions from Takanobu Masuda (ex-Bluew/Blaze). The 8 tracks showcase this dynamic blend, from the speedy, driving “Fearless Night” and the ultra-fast “Come And Go” (highlighting Hamada’s impressive vocal technique) to the grand, titular ballad “Promise In The History.”

While some tracks lean into a poppier hard rock style, the overall quality and energy are undeniable. “Promise In The History” (VIH-28267) is a dense, high-quality album, representing a crucial bridge between her heavy metal origins and the AOR/pop-rock direction she would soon embrace. It came packaged with a poster-style booklet.