Legendary NWOBHM pioneers – Tygers of Pan Tang have done their best to keep the flag of true British metal flying for more than four decades. They have continued to tour and release new music regularly, and they have come back strong with their latest release: Electrifyed. The band influenced many who came after them, including some of the biggest names in metal. James Hetfield from Metallica is regularly pictured wearing a Tygers shirt. Their former guitarist John Sykes (RIP) went on to be a member of Thin Lizzy, Whitesnake and his own project, the wonderful Blue Murder.

The Tygers have given us ten solid (and heavy!) tracks on Electrifyed with some fantastic performances from the individual members. They come together to deliver a great package of traditional heavy metal. Vocalist Jack Meille sounds great, a hint of Robert Plant in his style, he belts out the tracks with gusto, while delivering catchy hooks. His clear articulation enables the listener to pick up the lyrics with ease.

The album kicks off with Rise Up! An atmospheric intro soon gives way to a full – on riff laden track with a huge chorus. Forevermore showcases more vocal gymnastics from Meille, while founding guitarist Robb Weir and fellow lead guitarist John Foottit crunch and shred away to their hearts content. The Powers That Be is another fist pumping anthem with a forceful drum intro courtesy of Craig Ellis. Lyrically, the song discusses the state of the world as it currently stands and the futility of war.

Dark Divinity is a mid paced chugger with some nice bass work from Huw Holding. The album’s title track is an absolute banger, lyrically it reminds me of Metallica’s: Ride The Lightning with its subject matter of the ever controversial electric chair. Some great riffs and vocal melodies help to make it a stand out track. A Shadow On Fire is another solid head banger, more great guitar work on display here. The Nail is another chugfest, a real head nodder.

The production from Marco Angioni is punchy and bright, and makes the album an enjoyable listen. The Fight Goes On has an early Saxon vibe to it, the riff has the NWOBHM all over it. Wonderful stuff. Dark Skies has an ear worm of a chorus that has stayed with me well after the initial few listens. The album closes with the Zeppelin – esque: Revenge Is Sweet. Overall, Electrifyed is a solid heavy metal album. The album’s cover art from Andy Pilkington is superb too.

I’ll leave it to founding member Rob Weir to give us his thoughts on the album: “It’s time to honour the musical movement that we helped to start – the ‘New Wave of British Heavy Metal’. This is a brand new Heavy Metal album from us, steeped in the late ‘70s, flavoured from the ‘80s and ready for consumption right now!”

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Author: Kenny Kendrick