KILLER MAY joy stick WTP-90444

Glam Rock Generations: Killer May’s Debut ‘Joy Stick’ (WTP-90444)

Let’s dive into the glam-infused origins of some future Japanese rock legends with the debut album from Killer May, “Joy Stick.” Released on December 20, 1986, via the Eastworld label (Toshiba EMI), this 12-inch vinyl LP (catalog number WTP-90444) captures the band’s unique style. This particular copy includes the original obi strip.

“Joy Stick” served as the introduction to this visually striking glam and hard rock band, known for their outrageous fashion. Sound-produced by the band themselves, the album delivers a raw, decadent hard rock sound across its 10 original tracks (plus one cover). It features driving, sleazy rock ‘n’ roll, often compared to the style of T. Rex, whose classic “The Slider” is covered here.

This debut album is historically significant as it features the early work of brothers Hideaki “Emma” Kikuchi on guitar and Eiji “Annie” Kikuchi on drums, who would both later achieve massive international fame as members of the legendary rock band The Yellow Monkey.

“Joy Stick” (WTP-90444) is an essential document for fans tracing the roots of The Yellow Monkey and for collectors of 80s Japanese glam and hard rock. It captures the raw energy and unique aesthetic of Killer May right at the beginning of their journey. The release came complete with an obi and a double-sided insert.