Tank - The Power of the Hunter (Metal Mind Productions) (1982)
Tank - This Means War (Metal Mind Productions) (1983)
Tank - Honour & Blood (Metal Mind Productions) (1985)
I’m gonna have to tackle these three Tank re-issues as a batch as there really isn’t a massive difference in sound and frankly, you’re either gonna love em or hate em. Fact is that Tank were a semi-legendary early 80’s NWOBHM band that never reached anywhere near the heights of the likes of Duff Leppard, or the mighty Maiden or Priest. Unfortunately there is a good reason for it. Tank specialize in a ploddy, workmanlike, typical early 80’s Metal, which back then may have been de-rigeur, but sounds rather dated nowadays. I don’t like to say it but I can hear where Bad News stole their sound from! While I hate to be negative about Tank, given the time and age and also the seeming good time attitude; there are a few cover versions spread around and a lot of gang-vocal choruses. However it’s still fair to say that the music is mostly fairly unremarkable plodding basslines, straight 4/4 beats and rather un-exciting riffing, topped off with Algy Ward’s gruff Venom-esque vocals just a little lacking in bite. There are a few uptempo numbers around and the guitar solos are quite appealing, being tasteful and effortless, but it’s not enough. Tank just didn’t have enough variety, hook, heaviness or melody to appeal to a wider audience, though they would likely appeal to fans of Saxon, old schoolers from way back when and trad-Metal aficionados. New school Metal fans are unlikely to warm to Tank in the same way that kids in the 80’s looked to the more exciting fare of bands like Metallica. Well respected, worth a look and worth a listen, but don’t expect to have your world turned upside down.
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