W.A.S.P. inside the electric circus S33-1004

Shock Rock Spectacle: W.A.S.P.‘s ’Inside The Electric Circus’ Deluxe Promo (S33-1004)

Today’s entry features one of the most lavishly packaged heavy metal releases of the mid-1980s. We are examining the 1986 Japanese Promo Sample pressing of Inside The Electric Circus by W.A.S.P., released on Capitol Records with the catalog number S33-1004.

Welcome to the Show

Released on November 21, 1986, this album marked a slight shift for Blackie Lawless and his crew. While retaining their shock-rock imagery, the band moved toward a more polished, anthemic heavy metal sound. It was the first album to feature bassist Johnny Rod (formerly of King Kobra), who brought a high-energy stage presence that matched Lawless perfectly. The album is anchored by two high-profile covers that became live staples: the Ray Charles/Humble Pie classic “I Don’t Need No Doctor” and Uriah Heep’s “Easy Living.” Originals like “9.5.-N.A.S.T.Y.” and the title track showcase the band’s ability to write hook-laden, arena-ready metal.

The “Deluxe” Packaging Experience

What makes this Japanese pressing legendary among collectors is the sheer amount of bonus material included. Priced at a premium ¥3,300 upon release, it was marketed as a complete fan package. A complete copy is a treasure trove of memorabilia:

- Bonus 7" Interview Disc (BRP-1013): A unique promotional record titled “Gekidan!! Ryuketsu no Saishin W.A.S.P. Interview!!” housed in a custom sleeve.

- Visual Extras: The package originally included a poster, a sticker, and a set of 9 pin-ups housed in a specific envelope.

- Inserts: A 4-page insert featuring liner notes by Masa Itoh and translated lyrics.

Finding a copy with all these fragile paper parts intact is becoming increasingly difficult.

Promo Specifications

This specific copy is a Promo Sample, making it the ultimate version of this already deluxe release. The main LP and the bonus 7-inch both feature “Promo” markings on the labels. Additionally, a numbered “Sample” sticker is affixed to the back cover. Manufactured by Toshiba EMI, the audio quality is superb, capturing the thunderous production of the 80s Sunset Strip sound with the clarity expected from Japanese vinyl.