BOW WOW guarantee VIH-6035

Solidifying Their Sound: Bow Wow’s ‘Guarantee’ (VIH-6035)

Let’s delve into the fourth studio album from Japanese hard rock pioneers Bow Wow, titled “Guarantee.” Released in 1978 on the Invitation label (Victor) with the catalog number VIH-6035, this 12-inch vinyl LP captures the band during a significant stylistic transition. This particular copy includes the original obi strip.

Following their initial trilogy of powerful hard rock albums, “Guarantee” represented a notable shift. Driven by a desire for greater commercial success, the band moved towards a more pop-oriented rock sound, sometimes described as ‘kayōkyoku rock’ (Japanese pop-rock). This change was marked by several key factors: all lyrics were now in Japanese (a departure from some earlier English tracks), and most were penned by famous outside lyricists like Aku Yu and Itsuro Shimoda. Additionally, lead vocal duties shifted primarily from guitarist Kyoji Yamamoto to fellow guitarist Mitsuhiro Saito, whose background perhaps lent itself more to the poppier direction.

This stylistic change made “Guarantee” a controversial release among some fans of their earlier, heavier sound. However, the album still showcases the band’s strong musicianship. While Yamamoto’s signature guitar work might be slightly more restrained overall, the album features well-crafted songs, including two compositions contributed by Masahiro Kuwana. Yamamoto’s sole writing and lead vocal contribution, “いつもの場所” (Itsumo no Basho – The Usual Place), reportedly stands out as a more straightforward hard rock track, perhaps hinting at his underlying musical preferences.

VIH-6035 captures Bow Wow navigating a significant crossroads, attempting to blend their hard rock roots with mainstream pop sensibilities. While divisive for some, “Guarantee” remains an important album documenting this unique phase in their evolution and showcasing their versatility.