
High-voltage 1977 Japanese hard rock defined by Kyoji Yamamoto’s blistering guitar pyrotechnics and raw, arena-ready energy that predates the speed metal explosion.
December 1, 1977 · Invitation
Charge is the sound of a band finding its peak velocity. Released in late 1977, it captures BOW WOW at their most aggressive and technically proficient, bridging the gap between the bluesy hard rock of the early 70s and the burgeoning heavy metal movement. The album is anchored by Kyoji Yamamoto’s legendary guitar work, which combines the melodic sensibility of Ritchie Blackmore with a proto-shred intensity that was years ahead of its time in the Japanese scene. The sonic palette is dominated by saturated tube distortion and a rhythm section that feels like it is constantly chasing the lead guitar.
How does Charge sound next to the rest of Bow Wow's catalogue?
Basement Show saturates this record far more than the artist's norm.
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