RSS Feed


TYGERS OF PAN TANG
Bloodlines

Mighty Music (2023)
Rating: 8.5/10

Respect to original member Robb Weir for dragging this band through the decades of turbulence and reforming the Tygers Of Pan Tang in 1999. Since then the guys have been quite prolific, coughing out albums every few years. Bloodlines comes four years after 2019’s Ritual and is evidence further of the steady growth of the UK band since forming in the late 70s.

Okay, so the last batch of records may not boast the swagger and grit of those issued in the early 80s but there are some fans who prefer the Tygers now, and with this record one can see why. Opener ‘Edge Of The World’ begins with ominous tones but then gallops with a convincing and melodious wonder bolstered by the clear, driving vocals of Italian frontman Jacopo Meille who, since 2004, has brought an exotic steeliness to the band. The chorus is stunning as are the kicks of drummer Craig Ellis.

The quality continues with the gritty chugs of ‘In My Blood’, and the nifty yet clinical ‘Fire On The Horizon’ which crushes modern day Metallica in one swoop of its mighty talons. Meanwhile, ‘Light Of Hope’ brings another infectious chorus built upon the bruising bass of Huw Holding who joined the band two years ago. But what really gels this platter together is the axe work of Weir and another Italian acquisition Francesco Marras; together they construct flighty yet fully armoured vehicles of metallic belligerence that soar aloft with melody too. ‘A New Heartbeat’ sizzles with energy, ‘Taste Of Love’ is a smouldering powerhouse ballad and personal favourite ‘Making All The Rules’ simmers then explodes with passion and grace.

Bloodlines is an excellent album that any true heavy metal fan should explore. It also stands as a testament to the potency such elders still harbour. In my opinion, Black Rose, Holocaust and Tygers Of Pan Tang have never got the credit they deserve and yet they have released some of the finest heavy metal albums over the last decade and they deserve your attention.

Neil Arnold

<< Back to Album & EP Reviews



Related Posts via Categories
Share