Tokyo Blade-Camp 334

Fastball Music
2012

Color me surprised. Who knew this EP was even out? Then again I must have slept through the band's latest full-length album, "Thousand Men Strong", which was released in March of 2011 as well. Granted, I have not paid much attention to what the band has been up to lately as for me this classic N.W.O.B.H.M. band fizzled out during the mid-eighties. Looking back in anticipation of this review I see that "Thousand Men Strong" received positive reviews so maybe just maybe I will have to check it out. Judging by the live cover of the band's 2011 album's title track on this EP it seems like straight-forward heavy metal. Along with the live version of "Thousand Men Strong" you have the 8 minute plus title cut, "Camp 334" which features Tokyo Blade guitarist Andy Boulton's friend Joe Brave Heart performing a intro prayer in his native tongue (Joe's that is!). That make sense (having Joe on the record and all) if you consider the fact that Andy has been working with the charity for several years now. If a eight minute track sounds like a tad much then consider the fact that you also get a edited version of "Camp 334". So, with that in mind and, as stated, the attachment of a live cut it is not too bad of a deal. This EP is the first release of what is said to be three different songs/releases for three charities. Proceeds from the track "Camp 334" will go to the One Spirit charity, which helps make life better for the Lakota Sioux on the Pine Ridge reservation. And you know what I always have to say about that right? Good music for a good cause is something I can always get behind. This seems to be a digital-only release and, from the looks of it, at least available on Amazon and Itunes. "Camp 334" is great classic heavy metal with a slight old-school British flair. After all these years the band does sound good...or at least on these cuts they do.

NWOBHM WEDNESDAY: TOKYO BLADE

Andy Says-


When Tokyo Blade formed in 1981 (first as Killer, then Genghis Khan before finally settling on Tokyo Blade) the NWOBHM movement had already been in full swing for a few years. Bands like Saxon, Iron Maiden and Def Leppard had already paved the way and as their 1983 self-titled debut album hit the stores this new band was all set to light the world on fire. With a sound that took the best parts of those three giants and added touches of Praying Mantis and Angel Witch here was a band that was simply straight up heavy metal gold. With their strong first album they should have had the world by the balls. And yet they are another classic example of how you can start out having it all and blow it big time. Of all the NWOBHM bands to emerge from the late 1970s /early 1980s very few had as much potential and then wasted it. The story of Tokyo Blade has been heard before (poor management, line-up changes, trying to be commercial in nature), but it is never pretty. Theirs' is a confusing story and as such I suggest sites like Wikipedia for more information. What is certain is that they had the look, sound and talent to take them to the top. If the band had played their cards right and built of the strength of their debut album there is no doubt in my mind that we would talk about Tokyo Blade in the same way we talk about Saxon, Iron Maiden and the like. I remain curious about Mark's take on them and if he views them in the same light. That first album is a must hear as it is timeless heavy heavy full of melody and madness. Beyond that the music is hit or miss with certain songs and albums better than others. The band is still active with guitarist Andy Boulton being the one constant member. Although it should be noted that in late 2009 two older members rejoined the ranks in the hope of adding new life to this most interesting band. It probably is too late for the band to suddenly become huge as the band has always been more for those in the know. Perhaps though with time Tokyo Blade will get the proper respect for their 1983 album as it is a landmark in the genre.