Kiss – Unmasked represents the legendary rockers' venture into power pop and melodic rock territory, captured in this superb Japanese first pressing that preserves the album's catchy hooks and polished production. Released in 1980, this album showcases Kiss exploring a more accessible sound while maintaining their trademark flair, presented in a package that captures their transitional period in exceptional quality. The Japanese pressing reveals the album's polished production with stunning clarity. From the infectious opener "Is That You?" to the anthemic "Shandi," every power pop melody and tight arrangement emerges with crisp definition. While lacking the raw aggression of their earlier work, the album's sophisticated harmonies and melodic sensibilities benefit from the legendary Japanese audio engineering. The band's experimentation with a more radio-friendly sound sounds more vibrant and detailed than ever in this pristine pressing. This copy is exceptional for its near-mint condition throughout. The OBI strip remains crisp and vibrant, the insert is flawless with lyrics and band photos perfectly preserved, and the vinyl surface plays with the crystal-clear sound that Japanese pressings are renowned for. The iconic cover artwork—featuring the band's unmasked comic book personas—looks particularly striking in this Japanese edition, perfectly capturing the album's themes of revelation and musical transformation. A fascinating chapter in Kiss's evolution, preserved in collector's dream condition. DETAILED TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION Artist / Title: Kiss - Unmasked Format / Pressing: Vinyl LP - First Japanese pressing Label & Catalog Number: Casablanca 25S-3 Year / Country: 1980 - Japan Sleeve/Cover Condition: Near Mint - Minimal handling evidence, sharp corners, clean surfaces Media Condition: Near Mint - Visually pristine, no visible defects, plays with perfect clarity Contents: Complete with original OBI strip and insert TRACKLIST Side One: 1. Is That You? 2. Shandi 3. Talk to Me 4. Naked City 5. What Makes the World Go 'Round Side Two: 1. Tomorrow 2. Two Sides of the Coin 3. She's So European 4. Easy as It Seems 5. Torpedo Girl 6. You're All That I Want COLLECTOR'S HIGHLIGHTS Rarity: First Japanese pressing in exceptional near-mint condition Special Features: Includes all original Japanese elements - OBI strip and insert Musical Content: Power pop exploration from Kiss's transitional period Authenticity: Confirmed by Casablanca catalog number 25S-3 SALE TERMS & SHIPPING Shipping: Within 1 or 2 business days after payment Packaging: Professional, secure vinyl mailer | Record shipped outside the cover to prevent seam splits Vinyl Care: All our vinyl records are professionally cleaned with an ultrasonic machine before shipping. We also include a free outer sleeve and new inner sleeve. Shipping Areas: Worldwide Payment: Required within 3 days after auction closes ABOUT THE SELLER A passionate collector for over 30 years, my journey through music has been a lifelong adventure. With the creation of STREAMZER, I've chosen to share this profound love for music and records with enthusiasts around the world. Each record from my collection has been carefully selected, stored in optimal conditions, and handled with the respect that these musical treasures deserve. I'm delighted to offer these pieces to fellow music lovers who understand their true value. Happy bidding! Musically, Olivier