ZENO zeno EMS-81761

Melodic Rock Perfection: Zeno’s Self-Titled Debut (EMS-81761)

Today’s entry highlights a true cult classic of the 80s melodic rock scene. We are examining the 1986 Japanese Promo Sample pressing of the self-titled debut album by Zeno, released on the EMI label with the catalog number EMS-81761.

A Melodic Masterpiece

Released on June 25, 1986, this album is the brainchild of guitarist Zeno Roth, the younger brother of Scorpions legend Uli Jon Roth. While sharing his brother’s neoclassical guitar virtuosity, Zeno channeled it into a much more accessible, radio-friendly AOR sound. The album is revered for its soaring melodies, spiritual lyrics, and crystal-clear production. It features the anthem “Eastern Sun,” the driving “A Little More Love,” and the atmospheric “Don’t Tell The Wind.” With Ule W. Ritgen on bass (who would later form Fair Warning) and the powerful vocals of Michael Flexig, this record is considered a “Holy Grail” for fans of sophisticated European hard rock.

Exclusive Promo Specifications

This specific copy is a highly collectible Promo Sample. The vinyl disc labels are printed with the Japanese characters for “Sample (Not For Sale),” distinguishing it from the standard commercial release. These promotional copies were originally distributed to radio stations and industry insiders and are prized for their scarcity.

Complete Japanese Packaging

Manufactured by Toshiba EMI, the physical presentation is stunning. The album is housed in a high-quality sleeve and comes complete with the original Obi strip and a 4-page insert containing English lyrics and Japanese text. It is a pristine artifact of one of the most underrated albums of the 1980s.