Jealousy

Released in 1991, Jealousy stands as X Japan's most commercially successful work and a pivotal moment in Japanese music history. Recorded in Los Angeles after the band was given a 'blank check' by Sony, the album reflects a significant jump in production quality from its predecessor, Blue Blood. It is the final album to feature the band's original name 'X' and the last with bassist Taiji, whose technical contributions gave the record a distinct hard-rock groove often missing from later releases. While the band is famous for power metal, Jealousy showcases a diverse range of styles, including the speed-metal anthem 'Silent Jealousy,' the sleaze-rock influenced 'Desperate Angel,' and the avant-garde 'Love Replica.' Critics often point to this album as the perfect balance between their aggressive early roots and the symphonic balladry that would dominate their later career. Its million-selling status solidified X Japan as national icons, leading to their historic Tokyo Dome performances.