VOW WOW 3 WTP-90381
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Artist = VOW WOW
Title = 3
Label = EASTWORLD
Catalog# = WTP-90381
Barcode = 4988006000148
Release = JAPAN
Year = 1986
RPM = 33rpm
Disc Size = 12"
Number of Discs = 1
Mono/Stereo = stereo
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Polished Powerhouse: Vow Wow’s Album ‘III’ (WTP-90381)
Today’s entry focuses on a key album from Japanese hard rock legends Vow Wow, representing a significant phase in their evolution. We are looking at their third album under the Vow Wow name, simply titled “III,” released on the Eastworld label (Toshiba EMI) with the catalog number WTP-90381.
Issued on January 22, 1986, this 12-inch vinyl LP cemented the Vow Wow sound, which built upon the hard rock foundation of their previous incarnation (Bow Wow) but incorporated more prominent keyboards and often leaned into a more polished, arena-ready AOR-tinged heavy metal style, suitable for the international market they were increasingly targeting.
Recorded in late 1985 at Japanese studios (Music Inn Yamanakako, Freedom Studio) and mixed at Battery Studios in London, the album features the formidable lineup of Genki Hitomi (vocals), Kyoji Yamamoto (guitar), Kenji Sano (bass), Rei Atsumi (keyboards), and Toshihiro Niimi (drums). Produced by the renowned Tony Platt alongside the band, “III” boasts a powerful and crisp sound.
The album delivers a strong collection of melodic hard rock anthems, with lyrics penned by Jonah Pashby collaborating with Yamamoto and Atsumi on the music. Tracks like “Shot In The Dark,” “Running Wild,” and “Nightless City” showcase their blend of heavy riffs, memorable choruses, skillful musicianship, and Atsumi’s keyboard layers adding depth and atmosphere.
WTP-90381 captures Vow Wow at a creative peak, successfully merging classic hard rock intensity with the slicker, keyboard-heavy sound popular in the mid-80s, benefiting from expert production. “III” remains a fan favorite and a crucial album in the discography of these Japanese rock legends.