In the grand saga of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM), where legends were forged amidst a storm of leather, denim, and soaring guitar riffs, Tokyo Blade emerged as a band both thrilling and enigmatic. Their 1985 EP, "Undercover Honeymoon," stands as a monument to their musical prowess, a snapshot of a band pushing the boundaries of the genre and flirting with controversy, all while retaining the raw energy that defined the era.
Formed in 1982, Tokyo Blade rode the crest of the NWOBHM wave, sharing stages with the likes of Iron Maiden, Saxon, and Def Leppard. Yet, they were never content to simply follow the well-trodden path. "Undercover Honeymoon" showcases their willingness to experiment, to inject their music with a touch of glam, a dash of hard rock, and a hint of something altogether more dangerous.
The EP kicks off with a remixed version of the title track, "Undercover Honeymoon," a high-octane anthem that marries a driving rhythm section with Andy Boulton's searing guitar work and Alan Marsh's powerful vocals. It's a classic NWOBHM rager, but with a subtle twist, a touch of melody that sets it apart from the pack. The remix adds a layer of polish and power, enhancing the song's already infectious energy.
"Stealing the Thief" follows, a song that pushes the boundaries even further. The guitars are heavier, the vocals more aggressive, and the lyrics explore darker themes. It's a song that hinted at the band's future direction, a move towards a heavier, more mature sound.
Flipping the record over, we're greeted with another remix, this time of "Playroom of Poison Dreams." The original song, from their debut album, is given a new lease of life with a punchier mix and a more dynamic sound. It's a showcase for the band's songwriting skills, with its catchy chorus and intricate guitar work.
The EP closes with "Bottom End," a deep cut that demonstrates the band's versatility. It's a bluesy, mid-tempo rocker with a swaggering groove and a touch of sleaze. Marsh's vocals are full of character, and the guitar solos are both soulful and incendiary.
"Undercover Honeymoon" was produced by the legendary Tom Galley, known for his work with Whitesnake and Phenomena. Galley's touch is evident throughout the EP, adding a layer of polish and professionalism without sacrificing the band's raw energy. The recording took place at Ridge Farm Studios, a renowned facility that had hosted the likes of Queen, Thin Lizzy, and Ozzy Osbourne.
"Undercover Honeymoon" may not be Tokyo Blade's most commercially successful release, but it's arguably their most artistically significant. It's an EP that captures a band at a crossroads, experimenting with their sound and pushing the boundaries of the NWOBHM genre. It's a showcase of their talent, their ambition, and their refusal to be pigeonholed.
In the history of NWOBHM, Tokyo Blade may not be as well-remembered as some of their contemporaries, but their music deserves to be heard. "Undercover Honeymoon" is a hidden gem, a demonstration of a band that dared to be different, to push the envelope, and to create music that was both thrilling and thought-provoking. It's a reminder that the NWOBHM era was more than just leather, denim, and guitar solos; it was a time of musical exploration, of pushing boundaries, and of creating a legacy that continues to inspire and excite to this day.
