BLIZARD blizard of wizard K-12511
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Artist = BLIZARD
Title = blizard of wizard
Label = ATLANTIC
Catalog# = K-12511
Barcode = none
Release = JAPAN
Year = 1984
RPM = 33rpm
Disc Size = 12"
Number of Discs = 1
Mono/Stereo = stereo
9trk, track b2 & b4 are written by neal schon/steve perry/jonathan cain(journey)
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Forging Metal Magic: Blizard’s Debut ‘Blizard Of Wizard’ (K-12511)
Venturing back to the explosive beginnings of the 80s Japanese heavy metal scene, we spotlight the debut album from the influential band Blizard. This is “Blizard Of Wizard” (暗黒の聖書), released on the Atlantic label (Warner-Pioneer Corporation) with the catalog number K-12511. This particular copy comes complete with its original obi strip.
Issued on July 10, 1984, this 9-track, 12-inch vinyl LP marked the powerful arrival of Blizard. Even for a debut album, “Blizard Of Wizard” showcased a remarkably polished and sophisticated brand of heavy metal. It immediately established the band’s signature style, often referred to as the “Blizard sound,” characterized by highly melodic, often melancholic twin-guitar work (led by the prodigious talent of Toshiya “Ran” Matsukawa), soaring high-pitched vocals, and a tight, driving rhythm section.
The album delivers pure 80s J-Metal energy across tracks like the opening band anthem “Blizzard,” “Lady Stardust,” “Stealer,” and the fan-favorite “Orion.” It masterfully blends heavy metal power with memorable hooks and technical proficiency, setting a high standard right out of the gate.
A unique and significant aspect of this debut is the inclusion of two cover tracks “Only The Young” and “Liberty,” which were written by Neal Schon, Steve Perry, and Jonathan Cain of the American rock supergroup Journey during their peak popularity.
K-12511 stands as a landmark debut in Japanese heavy metal history. Considered a classic of the genre, “Blizard Of Wizard” launched the career of a significant band and remains an essential album for fans and collectors seeking the powerful, melodic sound that defined J-Metal’s golden era.