HAMADA, MARI love and free VIHX-1705

Here’s a look at the third single from Japanese rock vocalist Mari Hamada, “Love And Free.” Released on December 16, 1986, via the Invitation label (Victor), this 7-inch, 45 RPM vinyl (catalog number VIHX-1705) highlights two key songs from her “Promise In The History” album.

This single features two tracks, both with music by Keiji Katayama and lyrics by Mari Hamada, showcasing her polished, melodic hard rock sound.
A: Love And Free
B: Promise In The History

The release is notable for its all-star backing musicians. “Love And Free” features Takahiro “Tak” Matsumoto (later of B’z) on guitar, Yoshihiro Naruse on bass, Atsuo Okamoto on drums, and Yoshinobu Kojima on keyboards. The title track “Promise In The History” features Matsumoto again, with Takanobu Masuda handling both keyboards and synth bass.

Fans regard the A-side, “Love And Free,” as a “hard-pop masterpiece,” a catchy and passionate song that was symbolic of the foundation for her massive future success. The B-side, “Promise In The History,” is equally praised as a “gem of a ballad,” perfectly showcasing Hamada’s powerful, soulful vocals.