EARTHSHAKER midnight flight MFN37

Taking Flight Overseas: Earthshaker’s UK ‘Midnight Flight’ (MFN 37)

Today we look at a key international release for Japanese hard rock legends Earthshaker: their classic album “Midnight Flight,” specifically the UK pressing issued by Music for Nations with the catalog number MFN 37.

Released in 1985, this 12-inch vinyl LP brought Earthshaker’s powerful sound, which had already conquered Japan, to the influential UK and European heavy metal markets via the respected Music for Nations label. This followed MFN’s earlier release of the “T-O-K-Y-O” compilation EP (MFN 35), indicating growing international interest.

“Midnight Flight,” originally released in Japan in 1984, is widely considered the album that perfected Earthshaker’s signature blend of driving hard rock, heavy metal power, and deeply emotive, catchy melodies. This release introduced overseas audiences to their distinctive sound, characterized by soaring vocals, skillful and soulful guitar work, and a tight, powerful rhythm section.

Crucially, this MFN pressing included the band’s massive Japanese hit, “Radio Magic,” giving international listeners a taste of the anthem that had catapulted the band to stardom back home. The entire album serves as a prime example of high-quality, melodic Japanese heavy metal from the genre’s golden era.

MFN 37 is a significant item for collectors, representing Earthshaker’s expansion onto the global stage via a major European metal label. It’s a testament to the quality and appeal of their music, which resonated with hard rock fans far beyond Japan’s borders.