Tankz: The Industrial Rock Powerhouse

Tankz is the moniker of British industrial rock musician and producer Marcus Vale. Hailing from Manchester, Vale has carved a distinct path in the modern rock scene with his fusion of aggressive electronics and melodic guitar work. His 2018 album Ironclad achieved a notable commercial peak, charting within the UK Top 40 and solidifying his reputation for intense, high-energy performances.

Early career

Marcus Vale began experimenting with music production software and hardware synthesizers in his late teens, forming the initial concept for Tankz around 2009. His early work circulated on underground music forums and led to a self-released EP, Rust, in 2011. This DIY effort caught the attention of independent label Sonic Anvil Records, which signed him and released the follow-up EP Wasteland in 2013.

Breakthrough

The Tankz project achieved its mainstream breakthrough in 2016 with the single Hammerfall. The track's viral success on YouTube and subsequent radio play on alternative rock stations propelled it onto the UK Rock & Metal Singles Chart. This momentum led to a major label deal with Vertigo Records and the 2018 release of the debut full-length album Ironclad, which debuted at number 32 on the UK Albums Chart.

Key tracks

Hammerfall — This breakthrough single defined the Tankz sound with its pummeling rhythm and anthemic chorus.

Scrapyard Symphony — A track from Ironclad noted for its complex layering of distorted synths and clean vocals.

Forged in Noise — This later single featured a collaboration with producer Chris Sheldon and received regular rock radio rotation.

Black Powder — A fan-favorite deep cut known for its extended industrial percussion breakdown during live sets.

The success of Ironclad allowed Tankz to embark on extensive touring, including support slots for larger acts and headline shows across Europe. His sophomore album, 2021's Pressure Drop, explored more atmospheric territories while maintaining a heavy rhythmic core, earning positive critical reviews for its evolved production. Vale has also lent his production skills to other artists within the industrial and alternative rock genres, further establishing his behind-the-scenes influence.

For fans of the aggressive, synth-driven side of modern rock, similar artists include 3Teeth who share a similar aesthetic of industrial aggression. Author & Punisher explores even more extreme and mechanically intense soundscapes. Listeners may also appreciate the work of Health for their blend of noise rock and electronic elements. The anthemic quality of Tankz's choruses can also be found in the music of Blue Stahli.

Tankz's music is a staple on many alternative and modern rock radio stations, particularly those with a focus on heavier, electronically-augmented sounds. His tracks are regularly featured in the playlists of dedicated industrial rock programs and on online radio streams that champion guitar music with a futuristic edge. Independent music radio stations frequently highlight his work as a prime example of the UK's current industrial rock output.

The powerful industrial rock of Tankz can be heard on various radio stations featured on our website. Listeners can discover and enjoy his catalog through the dedicated rock and alternative stations available on onairium.com.