MARI, HAMADA rainbow dream VIH-28204

Chasing the Rainbow: Mari Hamada’s ‘Rainbow Dream’ (VIH-28204)

Today’s entry explores the fourth studio album from Japanese rock vocalist Mari Hamada, titled “Rainbow Dream,” released on the Invitation label (Victor) with the catalog number VIH-28204.

Issued on January 21, 1985, this 9-track, 12-inch vinyl LP marked a continuation of Hamada’s powerful presence in the Japanese heavy metal scene following her initial trilogy of albums. Produced by Hamada herself, with arrangements credited to the H.M. Project, “Rainbow Dream” showcases her formidable vocal talents against a backdrop of high-quality heavy metal and hard rock instrumentation.

The album features a strong lineup of musicians, including notable contributions from guitarist Takahiro Matsumoto, who would later achieve immense fame with B’z. His involvement highlights the caliber of talent supporting Hamada. The 9 tracks blend original compositions penned by Hamada with skillful guitar work from Matsumoto, keyboard textures from Yogo Kohno, and a powerful rhythm section.

Interestingly, “Rainbow Dream” also includes two cover songs: Survivor’s iconic “The Moment Of Truth” (from The Karate Kid soundtrack) and Gary Moore’s “Love, Love, Love.” These choices further showcase Hamada’s vocal power applied to well-known rock anthems. The album came packaged with an obi strip and an insert sheet that doubled as a fold-out poster.

VIH-28204 captures Mari Hamada solidifying her status as Japan’s premier female heavy metal vocalist. “Rainbow Dream” delivers another strong collection of powerful, melodic metal tracks, featuring excellent musicianship and highlighting her own songwriting abilities alongside well-chosen covers.