HONJOH, MISAKO 13th TL-3
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Artist = HONJOH, MISAKO
Title = 13th
Label = TEICHIKU
Catalog# = TL-3
Barcode = none
Release = JAPAN
Year = 1983
RPM = 33rpm
Disc Size = 12"
Number of Discs = 1
Mono/Stereo = stereo
10trk, supported by loudness/x-ray members
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Continuing our exploration of the “Witch Trilogy” from pioneering Japanese female metal vocalist Misako Honjoh, let’s focus on her sophomore album, “13TH.” Released in 1983 on Teichiku Records with the catalog number TL-3, this 12-inch vinyl LP cemented her status in the burgeoning J-Metal scene. This particular copy includes the original obi strip.
Following her debut, “13TH” continued the powerful collaboration with members of Japan’s biggest metal band, Loudness. Guitar virtuoso Akira Takasaki served as the sound producer and arranged most of the tracks, shaping the album’s potent sound. The backing band was an all-star affair, essentially Loudness themselves: Takasaki on guitar, Munetaka Higuchi on drums, and Masayoshi Yamashita on bass. The sound was further enriched by keyboardist Toshio Egawa (Novela) and backing vocals from Minoru Niihara (Loudness) and Akira Fujimoto (X-Ray).
This powerhouse lineup delivered a 10-track collection of high-quality heavy metal, showcasing a blend of lyrical melodies and hard-driving songs. The album features standout tracks like “Endless Chain – The Mercy Of The God,” “Black Wizard,” and “Love Me Forever” (music by Yamashita), all built around Honjoh’s powerful vocals and Takasaki’s signature guitar work. The album also features iconic cover art by the legendary illustrator Noriyoshi Ohrai.
TL-3 stands as a prime example of early 80s J-Metal, heavily supported by the scene’s biggest names. It’s an essential album for fans of Misako Honjoh, Loudness, and the classic, melodic era of Japanese heavy metal. The release came with an obi and an insert.