HAMADA, MARI misty lady VIH-28175

The Power Solidified: Mari Hamada’s ‘Misty Lady’ (VIH-28175)

Completing her initial trilogy of powerful heavy metal albums, Mari Hamada’s third studio effort, “Misty Lady,” arrived on June 21, 1984. Released via the Invitation label (Victor), this 8-track, 12-inch vinyl LP carries the catalog number VIH-28175.

Following the impactful debuts of “Lunatic Doll” and “Romantic Night,” “Misty Lady” saw Hamada taking a greater role in the album’s creation, credited as the sound producer alongside overall producer Daikoh Nagato, with arrangements handled by the “Mari” Project Team. This release further cemented her status as Japan’s premier female heavy metal vocalist.

The album continues to deliver high-energy heavy metal and hard rock, showcasing Hamada’s incredible vocal range and power. It features strong musical backing from skilled players, including Kenji Kitajima on guitar, Yogo Kohno on keyboards, bassists Yoshihiro Naruse and Hiro Nagasawa, and drummer Atsuo Okamoto. Tracks like “Paradise,” “Sweet Lie,” “Fly On Wings,” and the title track “Misty Lady” exemplify the blend of heavy riffing, melodic sensibilities, and powerful vocal delivery that defined her early, classic sound.

VIH-28175 stands as a cornerstone of Mari Hamada’s early career and a classic of the 80s J-Metal era. It captures her immense talent solidifying, delivering pure, high-quality heavy metal as she began to take more control over her musical direction.