X-RAY outsider JUP-2006

Focusing again on Japanese melodic metal pioneers X-Ray, this entry examines their mini-album “Outsider,” released June 21, 1984, on the Continental label (Teichiku) with catalog number JUP-2006 with obi strip.

It’s a 12-inch vinyl release, pressed at 45 RPM for enhanced sound quality. Arriving after their successful debut “Hard Section,” “Outsider” served to keep the band’s momentum going, offering fans new material recorded in March 1984.

This mini-album delivers five tracks that exemplify X-Ray’s signature polished and powerful melodic hard rock sound. Opening with “Theme Of X-Ray II,” it also features “Singing Away,” “Love Game,” “Bloody Love,” and “Lady Ray.” Listeners can expect soaring vocals, skillful guitar work, driving rhythms, and potentially added keyboard textures from Takahiro Fujiyama.

The release came complete with an obi strip and a 2-sided insert featuring lyrics and live photos, providing a nice package for fans. JUP-2006 captures X-Ray further developing their sound, offering a concentrated dose of high-quality J-Metal from their early, influential period.