SEIKIMA-II adam no ringo 07SH1842

The Forbidden Fruit: Seikima-II’s ‘Adam no Ringo’ (07SH1842)

Let’s take a bite out of a classic single from Japan’s legendary heavy metal demons, Seikima-II. This is their second “Small Scripture” (single), “Adam no Ringo” (Adam’s Apple), released on November 1, 1986, via the Fitzbeat label with the catalog number 07SH1842.

Released just before their third album, “From Hell With Love,” this 45 RPM 7-inch vinyl captures the band during a pivotal creative period driven heavily by guitarist Jail O’hashi. O’hashi composed the title track, which became an enduring anthem for the band, remaining a staple of their live shows (“Black Masses”) long after his departure.

“Adam no Ringo” is famous for its driving, hard rock energy. It features a bold opening guitar riff and technical solos utilizing sweeping and tapping techniques that were highly advanced for the time. The rhythmic drive and vocal phrasing in the verses are often cited as a respectful homage to the classic Led Zeppelin track “Immigrant Song.” The track was a critical and commercial success, winning composition awards and being featured as an insert song in the OVA “Wanna-Be’s.”

The single features two tracks:
A: Adam no Ringo
B: Akumu no Sakebi (Shout of the Nightmare)

The B-side, “Akumu no Sakebi,” features lyrics and music by the band’s founder Damian Hamada, with arrangement by Jail O’hashi. 07SH1842 is an essential piece of Seikima-II history, representing the band breaking through to a wider audience with a catchy, technically proficient metal hit that defines their early era.