MURASAKI murasaki TKCA-70485

A key reissue of a foundational Japanese hard rock album is the focus for this entry: the self-titled debut from Okinawan legends, Murasaki. This CD (catalog number TKCA-70485) was released on September 25, 1994, via the Japan Record label (Tokuma).

This release was part of the popular “Q-ban” / “CD Sensho” reissue series, bringing the band’s landmark 1976 debut album to the digital format for fans. The original album is a cornerstone of Japanese hard rock, showcasing Murasaki’s pioneering sound, which was heavily influenced by British hard rock (like Deep Purple) and defined by the powerful interplay between heavy guitars and prominent keyboards.

This 1994 reissue contains the original seven album tracks, including classics like “Double Dealing Woman,” “Devil Woman,” and their cover of “Lazy.”

Significantly for collectors, this CD version also includes three bonus tracks: “(Now I’m) Free,” “Rock’n Roll Singer,” and “Wrath Of The Gods,” making it a comprehensive edition of their early work.