War Nation

The Zoo Crew, those groovy hippie DJs at THE ZOO radio station, are spinning the heavy metal anthem "War Nation" by Tank, a track from their 2012 album of the same name, for all the Zoo Freaks out there. This song, the title track of the album, is a powerful, riff-driven beast that captures the band's signature blend of classic heavy metal with a modern edge. One piece of trivia that stands out is the album's cover art, created by infamous London graffiti artist Jay Bryce, marking the first time his work was featured on a band’s album cover. Tank themselves expressed their admiration for Bryce’s art, calling it an honor to showcase his unique style, which adds a gritty, urban vibe to the album’s aesthetic . The song itself is a call to arms, with its pounding rhythm and soaring vocals by Doogie White, making it a standout for fans of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) scene.

Another interesting tidbit about "War Nation" comes from its lyrical content, which takes a surprising turn for Tank. The album includes several tracks with biblical themes, a departure from their earlier, more rebellious and hellfire-focused lyrics. For instance, the song "Hammer and Nails" references the passion of Jesus Christ and Pontius Pilate, with evocative lines like “Bring me the nails, bring me the cross, bring me the Crown of Thorns.” This shift suggests a maturing perspective from the band, moving away from their earlier demonic imagery to explore more spiritual and introspective themes . The title track itself, with its anthemic energy, has been praised for its catchiness, with reviewers noting that its chorus can stick in your head for days, making it a perfect fit for the Zoo Crew’s high-energy broadcasts.

Tank’s journey began in 1980, founded by Algy Ward, a former member of the punk rock band The Damned. Ward, along with guitarist Pete Brabbs and drummer Mark Brabbs, formed Tank as a power trio with a raw, punk-infused heavy metal sound that drew comparisons to Motörhead. Their debut album, Filth Hounds of Hades, released in 1982, established them as a force in the NWOBHM movement, blending aggressive riffs with a gritty attitude. By 1983, Mick Tucker joined as a second guitarist, and Cliff Evans followed in 1984, solidifying the band’s dual-guitar attack. Despite lineup changes and a lengthy hiatus after their 1987 album, Tank roared back in the 2000s with a new lineup featuring vocalist Doogie White, known for his work with Rainbow and Yngwie Malmsteen, and continued to deliver albums like War Nation that honor their legacy while pushing forward.

Fans of Tank, much like the Zoo Freaks grooving to THE ZOO’s airwaves, can connect with the band through their official online presence. Check out their official website for the latest news, tour dates, and merchandise. On Facebook, Tank shares updates and engages with their loyal fanbase. Their Instagram offers behind-the-scenes glimpses and throwbacks to their storied career. You can also follow them on X for real-time updates and interactions. For those looking to dive deeper into the Tank community, the The Metal Realm Facebook group is a great spot for fans to discuss the band’s music, including classics like "War Nation," and share their passion for NWOBHM.