VANDENBERG alibi WQCP-1584

A Polished Finale: Vandenberg’s ‘Alibi’ (WQCP-1584)

Today’s entry spotlights the third and final studio album from the original run of the Dutch hard rock band Vandenberg. We are looking at the Japanese CD reissue of “Alibi,” released via Warner Music Japan with the catalog number WQCP-1584. This particular copy includes the original obi strip.

Originally released in 1985, “Alibi” marked a distinct shift in the band’s sound compared to their previous hit, “Heading For A Storm.” Seeking a more contemporary and commercial appeal, the album features a significantly increased use of keyboards, thicker vocal harmonies, and a more polished, “pop-metal” production style. While this change in direction ultimately did not translate into higher sales at the time, the album is regarded by fans as a high-quality work filled with well-crafted songs and no filler.

Guitarist Adrian Vandenberg displays a more mature style here, moving away from obvious Michael Schenker influences to deliver compact, effective, and original solos. Highlights include the beautiful ballad “Once In A Lifetime” and the album’s closer, the driving instrumental “Kamikaze,” continuing the band’s tradition of ending albums with memorable tracks. Vocalist Bert Heerink delivers a powerful, slightly deeper performance throughout.

WQCP-1584 is a desirable version for collectors, capturing the final chapter of Vandenberg before Adrian joined Whitesnake. It offers a polished, melodic hard rock experience that showcases the band’s songwriting strengths.