ALCATRAZZ - Dangerous Games Capitol Records 12" Vinyl LP Album

- The Forbidden World of 'Dangerous Games

"Dangerous Games," Album Description:

In the world of heavy metal history, ALCATRAZZ's third and final studio album, "Dangerous Games," stands as a distinctive and experimental chapter in the band's repertoire. Released in 1986 under Capitol Records, this 12" Vinyl LP Album marked a significant departure from the band's previous works, embracing a heavily Japanese-influenced style that set it apart in the metal landscape of its time.

The production of "Dangerous Games" was entrusted to Richie Podolor, a seasoned figure in the music industry, whose touch brought a new sonic dimension to ALCATRAZZ's sound. Bill Cooper handled the intricate process of recording, ensuring that every note and riff resonated with precision. The mastering, a critical step in shaping the final auditory experience, was skillfully undertaken by Mike Reese.

The visual identity of the album was not left to chance, with a striking album cover designed and drawn by the talented trio of Tommy Steele, Ray Kahara, and Manuel Nuñes. The cover art encapsulates the essence of the album, offering a visual journey into the amalgamation of metal and Japanese influences that define "Dangerous Games."

What sets "Dangerous Games" apart is its audacious exploration of Japanese musical elements, a departure from the band's previous more conventional metal offerings. ALCATRAZZ, known for their virtuoso performances and Graham Bonnet's distinctive vocals, embraced this stylistic shift with fervor, infusing traditional Japanese melodies and structures into their compositions.

The album kicks off with a powerful statement in the form of its title track, "Dangerous Games," where the fusion of metal and Japanese influences becomes immediately apparent. The intricate guitar work, the dynamic rhythm section, and Bonnet's commanding vocals create a sonic tapestry that is both unconventional and captivating.

Tracks like "Undercover" and "No Imagination" further showcase the band's willingness to experiment with sound. The incorporation of traditional Japanese instruments and scales adds a layer of complexity to the music, creating an album that transcends the boundaries of conventional heavy metal.

"Dangerous Games" serves as a testament to the band's willingness to evolve and take risks, even if it meant deviating from the established norms of the genre. While the album may not have achieved the commercial success of its predecessors, its influence can be heard in subsequent generations of metal bands willing to explore new sonic territories.