Tygers of Pan Tang Roar Again with Animal Instinct Reissue

Review By Glen Parkes

Few bands embody the spirit of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal quite like Tygers of Pan Tang, and the reissue of their 2008 album Animal Instinct—due November 22, 2024, via Mighty Music—shows why their legacy endures. Featuring a refreshed sound and lineup that revitalized the group at a critical juncture, this release is an essential chapter in the band’s storied history.

The Band Reforged

Robb Weir, the band’s founder and driving force, had reached a critical crossroads by the mid-2000s. Determined to keep the Tygers’ legacy alive, Weir found the perfect vocalist in Florence-based Jack Meille. Meille’s dynamic range brought both the grit and melody the band needed to tackle their back catalog and forge ahead with new material. Complemented by Craig Ellis on drums, Brian West on bass, and Dean Robertson on guitar, this lineup delivered a sound that seamlessly merged classic heavy metal with modern rock influences.

The album roars to life with “Rock Candy,” a hard-hitting opener that sets the tone with searing guitar riffs and Meille’s commanding vocals. “Cry Sweet Freedom” showcases the band’s ability to blend melody with a fierce edge, while “Live For The Day” delivers soaring hooks that feel both urgent and timeless.

Tracks like “Let It Burn” and “If You See Kay” highlight Robb Weir and Dean Robertson’s twin guitar prowess, weaving intricate solos with powerful rhythms. Brian West’s thundering basslines drive tracks such as “Hot Blooded” and the fiery “Devils Find A Fool,” while Craig Ellis’s drumming keeps the pulse relentless and precise.

Standouts include “Winners and Losers,” with its anthemic chorus, and “Dark Rider,” a brooding number that balances atmospheric tension with raw power. The album closes on a high note with “Don’t Say R’n’R Is Gonna Die,” an unapologetic declaration of the band’s commitment to their rock roots.

A Cohesive Rock Revival

The reissue of Animal Instinct is more than a nostalgia trip. The production is crisp, giving each instrument room to shine while maintaining the band’s trademark raw energy. Meille’s vocals elevate the material, breathing new life into the Tygers’ sound, while Weir’s leadership ensures the album feels cohesive and true to the band’s legacy.

This reissue is a testament to the enduring power of Tygers of Pan Tang. From its powerful opener to its defiant closer, Animal Instinct captures the band’s ability to evolve while staying true to their heavy metal roots. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the Tygers’ ferocious sound, this reissue deserves a spot in your collection. With Robb Weir at the helm and Jack Meille’s fiery vocals leading the charge, Tygers of Pan Tang prove that their roar is as fierce as ever.