LOUDNESS thunder in the east AF-7337
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Artist = LOUDNESS
Title = thunder in the east
Label = COLUMBIA
Catalog# = AF-7337
Barcode = none
Release = JAPAN
Year = 1985
RPM = 33rpm
Disc Size = 12"
Number of Discs = 1
Mono/Stereo = stereo
10trk,
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The Storm Arrives: Loudness’ Breakthrough ‘Thunder in the East’ (AF-7337)
Few albums hold such a pivotal place in the global history of Japanese heavy metal as Loudness’ “Thunder in the East.” This entry focuses on the original Japanese pressing, released on January 21, 1985, via the Columbia label (Nippon Columbia) with the catalog number AF-7337. This particular copy includes the original obi strip.
As their fifth studio album, “Thunder in the East” marked a bold and calculated move towards international stardom. Produced by Max Norman (renowned for his work with Ozzy Osbourne) and recorded entirely in English at Sound City Studios in Los Angeles, the album was meticulously crafted for the Western market. Mastered by the legendary Bernie Grundman, every aspect aimed for world-class impact. This was Japanese rock ready to battle on the world stage.
The result was a landmark achievement. The album perfectly captured the signature Loudness sound – Akira Takasaki’s breathtaking guitar wizardry (praised for its high-level technique and melodic feel), Minoru Niihara’s powerful English vocals, Masayoshi Yamashita’s driving bass, and Munetaka Higuchi’s thunderous drumming – and presented it in a polished, powerful package with an American rock flashiness. It spawned iconic anthems like “Crazy Nights,” “Like Hell,” and “Heavy Chains.”
While released internationally to great acclaim (famously breaking the US Billboard chart), the Japanese pressing AF-7337 represents the album’s origin point for their home audience. It came generously packaged with an obi, a 4-page liner notes/lyrics insert, and a sheet of logo stickers. It stands as a monumental release, signifying Loudness’ successful bid for global recognition.