Tailgunner are a heavy metal band from the UK and this is their second album.
Following on from 2023’s Guns for Hire, we now get treated to a new platter of classic heavy metal shenanigans by Tailgunner. With a refreshed lineup, the band burn through Midnight Blitz like it’s the last thing they’ll ever do. Hopefully it won’t be, as the progress they’ve made from their debut album is noticeable.
The spirit of Iron Maiden and Judas Priest is strong with Midnight Blitz. However, Tailgunner have somehow managed to forge their own personality within the shadow of these and other greats from the 80s. Part of the reason for this is the power metal influence, (think Gamma Ray/Helloween), that coexists with the old-school heavy metal heart of the band, but the other part is simply the passion and talent that Tailgunner bring to the table. Delivered with contemporary skill and ability, Midnight Blitz is a riot.
Packed with hooks, this is a collection of songs that is hard to dislike. It’s a blend of classic heavy and power metal, and sounds great. If your idea of a killer metal song is catchy choruses, electrifying solos, and molten leads, then you need Tailgunner in your life. Thankfully, the new lineup doesn’t include a new singer, as I love the voice of Tailgunner’s vocalist, and here he shines as brightly as ever.
The various songs have their own strengths and proclivities within the framework of the album’s whole. Some are faster, others slower, some lean more into the heavy metal side of things, whereas others soar fully into the power metal heavens. There’s the legally mandated ballad, but even this is a top drawer song. Whatever Tailgunner do, the quality levels remain consist – Tailgunner’s songwriting makes the most of their heavy/power metal ingredients and the band spit out songs that satisfy easily. Midnight Blitz goes down effortlessly well and tastes damn good.
Tailgunner’s enthusiasm is infectious, and their energy contagious. This is an album that screams to be replayed over and over again, and the more you do the better it gets. Midnight Blitz is great fun, and an absolutely essential listen for anyone that wants a hit of the classic metal style.
Wonderbox Metal 