Tankard is a thrash metal band from Frankfurt am Main, Germany, founded in 1982. After losing their guitarist because of their image as a bunch of drunks, they moved on to issue their first record in 1986. From that 1986 on, the band has continuously made songs and records in the same style they started out with - fast metal songs in honor of alcohol. Thus they claim to have invented a new genre called "alcoholic metal". Tankard are self-proclaimed "Kings of Beer" in honour of the folkloric character Gambrinus.
On the discography listing below you will find TANKARD ( Thrash Metal , Germany ) vinyl records released during the 1970s and 1980s. For each record you will have the record company's catalognr, album title, year and country of release. Complete information for each record can be viewed by selecting the corresponding links. Albums have been ordered in ascending alphabetical order of the album titles.
Tankard is a thrash metal band from Frankfurt, Germany that was formed in 1982. The band's name comes from the fact that they often drink beer from tankards while playing. Tankard is known for their humorous lyrics that often focus on drinking and partying, but they are also musically talented and have a loyal fanbase.
The band's original lineup consisted of Andreas "Gerre" Geremia on vocals, Axel Katzmann and Andy Bulgaropulos on guitars, Frank Thorwarth on bass, and Oliver Werner on drums. They released their debut album, "Zombie Attack," in 1986, which featured fast, aggressive riffs and Gerre's distinct, rough vocals. The album was well-received by the metal community and helped to establish Tankard as one of the top thrash bands in Germany.
Over the years, Tankard has released a total of 18 studio albums, as well as several live albums, compilations, and EPs. Their music has evolved over time, with the band incorporating elements of punk, hardcore, and even traditional German folk music into their sound. However, they have always maintained their thrash metal roots and continue to write high-energy, fast-paced songs that are perfect for headbanging.
One of the things that sets Tankard apart from other metal bands is their sense of humor. While many metal bands focus on darker themes like death, Satanism, and politics, Tankard takes a more lighthearted approach to their lyrics. Many of their songs are about drinking beer, partying with friends, and enjoying life. For example, their song "Chemical Invasion" is about a group of aliens who come to Earth to drink all of the beer. Similarly, "A Girl Called Cerveza" is an ode to the joys of drinking beer and hanging out with friends.
Despite their humorous lyrics, Tankard is a serious band with a lot of musical talent. Their guitar riffs are fast and intricate, and their drumming is powerful and precise. Gerre's vocals are raw and aggressive, but he also has a great sense of melody that helps to elevate the band's music. Tankard's songs are catchy and memorable, with choruses that are easy to sing along to.
Tankard has faced some criticism over the years for their humorous lyrics and party-focused image. Some metal fans argue that the band is not "serious" enough and that they are just trying to capitalize on the metal scene's love of drinking and partying. However, Tankard has always maintained that they are a legitimate metal band with serious musical chops. They have also been vocal about their love of beer and their belief that metal should be fun and inclusive.
In addition to their music, Tankard is also known for their live shows. The band is energetic and engaging on stage, and they often interact with the audience during their performances. Gerre is known for his charismatic stage presence, and the rest of the band members are talented musicians who know how to put on a great show.
Musically, "Alien" is a pure thrash metal masterclass. The title track explodes with a sci-fi infused narrative set against breakneck riffs and frantic drumming – a testament to the genre's penchant for fun and escapism.
Alien 12" Vinyl EPThe creation history of "Chemical Invasion" is deeply rooted in the thriving German thrash metal scene of the late 1980s. The album emerged in 1987, a time when the genre was experiencing a surge in popularity
Chemical Invasion 12" Vinyl LPThe album's creation history unveils a fascinating journey of collaboration and creative ingenuity. The cover concept, attributed to Buffo, sets the tone for the visual representation of "The Meaning of Life."
The Meaning of Life 12" Vinyl LPThe recording of "The Morning After" took place at Music Lab Studio in Berlin, with Harris Johns serving as the producer. Harris Johns, known for his work with other thrash metal acts like Kreator and Sodom
The Morning After 12" Vinyl LPThe creation history of "Zombie Attack" is a tale of raw energy, unbridled passion, and the relentless pursuit of musical excellence. Formed in 1982 in Frankfurt, Germany, Tankard was part of the burgeoning thrash metal
Zombie Attack 12" Vinyl LP