With the departure of lead singer and founding member Algy Ward, the 2010 version of the heavy metal machine called Tank takes a little different approach to their new album War Machine. Yes there is still the metal anthems that is the backbone of the band but with new lead singer Doogie White they have turned from the ground chewing assault vehicle that left a path of destruction in its wake to a more sophisticated fighting machine that does its damage with finesse and a precision that will bring them into the modern age of metal music.
When I first listened to the album it struck me that they seem to be following a path that Doogie is leading them down. Music that is more accustom to his previous bands like Rainbow and Yngwie Malmsteen. The terrific opening song "Judgement Day", "Feast Of The Devil" and "Phoenix Rising" kick off the disc with a trio of power metal classics that bring visions of Dio or Iron Maiden to mind. It is quite an epic start for this new line-up. It is also one that really perked up the ears with an outstanding display of what makes this style so hard to resist. White is in fine voice and together with guitarist Mick Tucker and Cliff Evans they show you that this is not the same band that last hit the studio in 2002. This new and improved slick Tank takes you places that the old band would never venture.
This is not to say that long time fans will be disappointed. There is still plenty of the foot stompin', ass kicking heavy metal anthems that the band made their mark with. The grinding title track "War Machine", "Great Expectations" and "My Insanity" are all destined to have massive audiences pumping fist and roaring along with the hooky choruses.
I am really glad to see and hear that Tank is back on track. They are a different band without Algy but by no means are they any less of a metal force. Doogie White is an excellent choice to fill the shoes of his predecessor and he does so admirably. This is a fine heavy metal release that took me by surprise and a very welcome one at that. Let's just hope that this new Tank keeps rolling along, I can't wait to see where they take us.
Track listing:
1. Judgement Day
2. Feast Of The Devil
3. Phoenix Rising
4. War Machine
5. Great Expectations
6. After All
7. The Last Laugh
8. World Without Pity
9. My Insanity
Related reviews:
Filth Hounds Of Hades
Honour And Blood (reissue)
Power Of The Hunter
Still At War
Tank
The Return Of The Filth Hounds (live)
This Means War
War Of Attrition Live 1981
Printer Friendly Page
Send to a Friend
