Kim Hooker - the voice and face of the classic-era of Tigertailz - unveils new band Bare Knuckle Messiahs. Organically growing over the past few years since Kim left Tigertailz - the band he fronted for 25 years - Bare Knuckle Messiahs are completed by JJ (bass), Cy (guitars) and Andy Skinner (drums). Says Kim: "I always knew I'd come back with another band it's just that as I've gotten older there were other things I wanted to do that took priority so the time to throw my hat in the ring again had to feel right for me." "These are guys I've known for many years, which is the most important thing to me. Cy and Andy I knew from my Tigertailz days - both played in the 'Wazbones' era back in 1994 - so I knew they were both brilliant and JJ I'd known for years from his time in S.E.X so I also knew he was quality." The end result is 'That Which Preys On The Dead' a ten-track angry, dark and frankly blistering rock album - that not only captures the spirit of heavy metal but allows its creators to move forward into the next chapter of their musical careers. With some parts written by Kim way back during the 'Bezerk' chapter, and some parts way more recently, 'That Which Preys On The Dead' stands proud as an exceptionally creative album, packed with a distinctive 'Hooker' vibes, riffs, melodies and a sinister and aggressive backbone. Tracks like 'Blood Brothers' - and its accompanying video - is a pure heavy metal anthem; 'My Image In Thee', is driven by a mighty headbanging anthemic power; 'I Need To Feel Your Pain' hints at the darker riffs inspired by classic Seattle legends; while 'Smash It Up' is a riotous, speedball of motorised cacophony that packs a killer punch; and 'Spit In Your Eye' is a thunderous and in-your-face hook-fest. "The album, just like the band name itself, feels quite confrontational when you listen to it," says Kim, "but that's what Heavy Metal is, or at least should be!!"
