●The concept created by Kato Kazuhiko and his ally Matsuyama Takeshi is expressed through the production of master Chris Thomas and the addition of Imai Yutaka (keyboards), an ironclad band ensemble. Mika Band's second album, released in 1974, was released as "Black Ship." This overwhelming masterpiece, which left its mark on Japanese rock history and gained attention in the UK and the US, is now available on the super high-end vinyl record "100% Pure LP," which was revived last year!

●"100% Pure LP" is a special Made in Japan product that was released in 2012 and is a pioneer of modern high-quality records that has attracted great attention from all over the world. One of its key features is the use of "uncolored virgin vinyl," eliminating all colorants, such as carbon, commonly used on vinyl records that affect sound. Using only pure, straight vinyl chloride ensures superior molding stability.

Another key feature is the use of "metal master pressing." By eliminating the metal mother and stamper from the typical vinyl pressing process, pressing directly from the metal master allows for incredibly faithful groove formation. However, due to its inferior durability, pressings are limited in quantity.

Furthermore, this release uses 45 rpm, the same speed as 12-inch singles, rather than the 33 rpm of a standard LP. While this reduces the recording time on each side, it is a two-disc set, allowing for wider, longer grooves, and the faster rotation speed improves stability, resulting in significant advantages in detail reproduction and richer volume.

●The sound source is a 192kHz/24bit WAV file transferred from the original analog master tape in 2023 (the two tracks on the 7" are 96kHz/24bit WAV files transferred in 2026), and has been mastered as flatly as possible to preserve the freshness and dynamic range of the sound. We have pursued a sound that is natural and faithful to the original.

●As mentioned above, by thoroughly studying every process from selecting the master and vinyl material to pressing, this "100% Pure LP" maximizes the true value of vinyl. While retaining the guts and warmth unique to analog, it delivers a literally pure and clear sound that is completely free of muddiness and impurities.

●Also included is a bonus 7" single on uncolored virgin vinyl that couples "Hi Baby," which was released only as a single the previous year, with "Hanami Boogie," an unreleased track from the album sessions that was later included on a best-of album (this is not a heavyweight metal master pressing).

Importer: Black Screen Records

Black Screen Records GmbH
Neue Weyerstr. 10
50676 Köln
Germany

Contact: blackscreenrecords.com