Warfare - Two Tribes - Metal Noise Mix NWOBHM 12" Vinyl Single

- Metal Noise Mayhem from the Heart of NWOBHM – Warfare's Ferocious 1984 Anthem

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Warfare's "Two Tribes," a 1984 NWOBHM 12" vinyl single, epitomizes the band's raw power and influence. Formed in 1982, Warfare, led by charismatic frontman Evo, crafted a sonic onslaught with ferocious guitar riffs and primal vocals. The EP, a product of the vibrant NWOBHM movement, showcased the band's commitment to a hard-hitting, DIY ethos. "Two Tribes" remains a pivotal chapter in British Heavy Metal's rich history.

Two Tribes by Warfare Album Description:

In the world of British Heavy Metal, the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) movement of the late 1970s and early 1980s stands as a pivotal moment. Among the myriad of bands that emerged during this era, Warfare earned their place with their electrifying sound and uncompromising style. The release of their second EP, "Two Tribes," in 1984 marked a significant chapter in the band's history.

Warfare, hailing from Newcastle, England, was formed in 1982 by vocalist and guitarist Evo (real name Ian Davison). The band quickly gained recognition for their high-energy performances and a raw, unapologetic approach to heavy metal. Evo, a charismatic frontman, led Warfare through the trenches of the burgeoning NWOBHM movement, leaving an indelible mark with their distinctive sound.

The genesis of "Two Tribes" can be traced back to Warfare's relentless dedication to their craft. The EP, released as a 12" vinyl single, showcased the band's evolution since their debut. It encapsulated the essence of NWOBHM, blending ferocious guitar riffs, thunderous drums, and gritty vocals that defined the genre.

The title track, "Two Tribes," exemplifies Warfare's commitment to a hard-hitting, no-frills sonic assault. The song, with its pulsating rhythm and memorable guitar hooks, resonated with fans hungry for the intense energy that characterized NWOBHM. Evo's distinct vocal delivery added a layer of authenticity, making the track an anthem for those immersed in the heavy metal subculture.

The creation of "Two Tribes" not only represented Warfare's musical prowess but also mirrored the DIY ethos prevalent in the NWOBHM scene. Independent record labels played a crucial role in providing a platform for bands like Warfare to unleash their sonic onslaught upon the world. The 12" vinyl format, a staple of the era, allowed for an extended sonic experience, giving fans a more immersive journey into Warfare's sonic battleground.

Despite the EP's significance in Warfare's discography, the band faced challenges that would alter their trajectory. Internal conflicts and lineup changes plagued the group, impacting their subsequent releases. However, "Two Tribes" remains a testament to Warfare's contribution to the NWOBHM movement and their unyielding commitment to the spirit of heavy metal.

Production & Recording Information:

Music Genre:

Speed Metal, NWOBHM new wave of british heavy metal Music

Collector Notes / Liner Notes

On Warfare's album "A Conflict of Hatred", Keith Nichol takes care of the production, sound engineering and as guest musician playing violin and keyboards.

Keith Nichol, Producer, Sound Engineer, ( Guest ) musician has been in-house producer for the NEAT Record label. He has been responsible for the production and sound engineering of many NWOBHM bands during the 1980s. Most notable these bands include: Atomkraft, Blitzkrieg, Fist, Raven, Venom, Warfare, and many others.
Label & Catalognr:

Neat Records Neat 45

Media Format:

45rpm 12" EP / Maxi-Single

Year & Country:

1984 Made in England

Producers:
  • Keith Nichol – Producer, Engineer

Band Members / Musicians:

Band Members, Musicians:
  • Falken – Bass
    Falken was the original bassist for the British heavy metal band Warfare, formed in 1982 alongside drummer/vocalist Paul "Evo" Evans and guitarist Gunner. He played on the band's early releases, including their debut album Pure Filth (1984), produced by Algy Ward of Tank. Falken's tenure with Warfare lasted until 1985, after which he was replaced by Zlaughter. His real name is David Taylor.
  • Evo – Drums, Vocals
    Evo is the stage name of Paul Evans, a British musician best known as the founder, drummer, and vocalist of the influential metal band Warfare, formed in 1984. Known for fusing punk’s raw energy with the speed and heaviness of early thrash and NWOBHM, Evo helped pioneer the punk-metal crossover sound. Warfare’s debut album Pure Filth was produced by Venom’s Cronos, reflecting their underground credibility. As the driving force behind Warfare, Evo became a cult figure in extreme metal for his aggressive style, anti-mainstream attitude, and unapologetic approach.
  • Gunner – Guitar
    The guitarist known as Gunner from the British metal band Warfare is Kelvin Johnson. He was a founding member of the band, which formed in 1984 alongside drummer/vocalist Paul "Evo" Evans and bassist Falken. Gunner played a significant role in shaping Warfare's aggressive blend of punk and metal during the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) era. He remained with the band until 1990, contributing to their early and influential releases.

Complete Track-listing:

Tracklisting Side One:
  1. Two Tribes
Tracklisting Side Two:
  1. Hell
  2. Blown to Bits

Warfare Two Tribes Album Photo Gallery:

Album Front Cover Photo
Front cover of Warfare's 'Two Tribes (Metal Noise Mix)' EP featuring the band in black leather with WARFARE spelled in bold white letters pierced by bullet holes.

This is the front cover of the 1984 EP "Two Tribes (Metal Noise Mix)" by the British heavy metal band Warfare, issued during the peak of the NWOBHM movement.

Dominating the top half of the cover is the word WARFARE in massive, bold white capital letters across a stark black background. Five of the letters—W, A, F, R, and E—are punctured by realistic bullet hole graphics, suggesting violent impact and rebellion.

Below the band’s name stands a high-contrast, black-and-white photo of the three band members in leather jackets and metal-studded belts, exuding raw energy. Their poses are aggressive and confrontational, echoing the band’s sound and attitude. They are pictured standing outdoors, possibly on a bridge or industrial platform.

At the bottom of the sleeve, the EP title "TWO TRIBES (Metal Noise Mix)" appears in bold white capital letters, slightly curved with a distressed, spray-painted appearance, reinforcing the gritty, underground aesthetic of 1980s British metal.

Photo of Record Label
Side One label of Warfare's Two Tribes (Metal Noise Mix) 12-inch vinyl EP from 1984, showing track info, production credits, and Neat Records logo in bold print.

This image shows the Side One record label of the 1984 12-inch vinyl EP "Two Tribes (Metal Noise Mix)" by the British metal band Warfare, released on Neat Records.

Centered at the top is the band's name, WARFARE, printed in large, solid black block letters. Behind the text is a subtle image of a clenched fist, part of the Neat Records logo, faded into the white background of the label. Encircling the top edge is the faint outline of the word NEAT RECORDS in stylized, grey bubble letters.

Just below the center hole, the track title "TWO TRIBES" is printed in uppercase, followed by the songwriting credits: (Gill / Johnson / O'Toole) Perfect Songs. Beneath that is a line noting: Produced and Engineered by Keith Nichol at Impulse 24.

The label also includes pressing and rights details such as MCPS, SIDE ONE, © 1984, and STEREO 45 rpm, along with the catalog number NEAT 45 (12''). Along the lower rim, small text reads: Original sound recording made by Neat Records (D.W.E. Ltd) ©1984.

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