Loudness remains the best-known Japanese heavy metal export of the '80s. Guitarist Akira Takasaki tears up Soldier Of Fortune with incredible liquid soloing, two-hand tapping, and a host of Lynch-isms as vocalist Mike Vescera provides ample throat. Co-produced by veteran metal producer Max Norman (Ozzy Osbourne, Megadeth) and Roger Probert, this album is one of their most consistent, and features strong material from top to bottom. You've got Eastern influences ('Twenty-Five Days"), frightening speed ("Demon Disease") and smoky ballads ("Lost Without Your Love") - in short, essential Loudness listening. Hard Rock, total running time, 45:11