X-RAY first and final live concert 28MX1244

Capturing the Final Bow: X-Ray’s ‘First And Final Live Concert’ (28MX 1244)

Let’s explore a poignant release from the influential Japanese melodic heavy metal band X-Ray, documenting their final performance. This is the live album “First And Final Live Concert,” released on Polydor with the catalog number 28MX 1244. This copy retains its original shrinkwrap with the obisticker.

Issued on June 25, 1986, this 12-inch vinyl LP holds a bittersweet significance. It marked the band’s first release after moving from Teichiku to the major label Polydor, yet it simultaneously served as their farewell live album before disbanding. The recording captures their performance on January 27, 1986, at Tokyo’s Yubin Chokin Hall.

Produced by Makoto Shinohara, the album showcases X-Ray’s polished and powerful melodic heavy metal in a live setting. It features energetic renditions of tracks spanning their career, including fan favorites like “Man In Black,” “Burnin’ Like The Fire,” “Lonely Guys,” and “Foolish Boys,” performed with the technical proficiency and soaring vocals the band was known for. It serves as a comprehensive summary of their live sound during that era.

“First And Final Live Concert” (28MX 1244) represents the culmination of X-Ray’s journey. For fans and collectors, it’s an essential document capturing the band’s complete and final live statement, preserving the energy and skill that made them legends in the 80s J-Metal scene. The included 4-page insert provides further context to this significant release.