LOUDNESS lightning strikes P-13333

Striking the Global Stage: Loudness’ ‘Lightning Strikes’ (P-13333)

Today we focus on the international version of a pivotal mid-80s album from Japanese heavy metal giants Loudness. This is “Lightning Strikes,” specifically the Japanese vinyl pressing released by Warner-Pioneer Corporation with the catalog number P-13333.

Issued in 1986, this 9-track, 12-inch LP is the internationally marketed counterpart to their Japanese album “Shadows of War.” While featuring the same core songs, “Lightning Strikes” (P-13333) presents the US mix version, produced by Max Norman. This version includes vocals sung entirely in English by Minoru Niihara and features production choices tailored for the Western market, following the successful formula established with “Thunder in the East.”

The album delivers the signature Loudness sound that had captivated international fans: a potent combination of high-energy heavy metal, technically dazzling guitar work from Akira Takasaki, powerful vocals with memorable melodic hooks, and the thunderous rhythm section of Masayoshi Yamashita and Munetaka Higuchi, all wrapped in Norman’s polished, arena-ready production.

P-13333 represents Loudness solidifying their presence on the international stage. “Lightning Strikes” was another successful step in bringing Japanese heavy metal to a global audience, demonstrating the band’s consistent power and skill. This Japanese pressing of the international version is a key item for collectors tracing the band’s global journey.