LOUDNESS disillusion AX-7407

Let’s focus on a pivotal release in Loudness’ journey to international fame: “Disillusion – English Version.” This 12-inch vinyl LP, issued by Columbia (Nippon Columbia) on July 1, 1984, carries the catalog number AX-7407. This album represents the band’s first major step in re-recording their material specifically for an English-speaking audience.

Following the Japanese-language release (AF-7246), this version features the same powerful collection of songs—including “Crazy Doctor,” “Esper,” and “Ares’ Lament”—but with all vocals performed in English by Minoru Niihara (lyrics translated by Tammy MacCleandon).

Indicative of their global ambitions, the main tracks were recorded at Sarm Studios in London with engineer Julian Mendelsohn and mastered at Tape One by Geoff Pesche, giving the album a crisp, international sound. This version also uniquely features the addition of the instrumental “Anthem (Loudness Overture)” as the opening track.

AX-7407, which was a limited pressing of 30,000 copies, stands as a crucial bridge between their domestic success and their eventual breakout with “Thunder in the East.” It’s an essential item for collectors, capturing the moment Loudness began to look seriously toward the world stage. The release came complete with an inner sheet.