Tailgunner may be one rare exception to the mainstream rock and metal media's resistance to traditional metal.

The quintet has made a strong case for being one of the contemporary world's most radical new bands with their debut album 'Guns for Hire' in summer 2023, receiving acclaim for their no-nonsense, distinctly British take on classic melodic metal.

With a raw, feral spirit and youthful fearlessness, Tailgunner has erased any doubt that they are the real thing.

Their second album 'Midnight Blitz,' produced by ex-Judas Priest legend K.K.

Downing, eschews glossy power metal production in favor of a grittier blend of '80s metal aggression and deft detail.

The album's opening title track is an invigorating anthem with hooks big enough to snare a sperm whale, already sounding like a timeless classic.

Guitarists Zach Salvini and Rhea Thompson are certified beasts, vocalist Craig Cairns has a unique and powerful voice, and the rhythm section of bassist Bones and Italian drummer Eddie Mariotti is solid and propulsive.

Everything fizzes with energy.

"Midnight Blitz" features fine choruses, razor-sharp guitar melodies, and twin-leads, bombastic heavy metal drama.

Heavy hitters like "Tears In Rain," "Follow Me In Death," and "War In Heaven" showcase the band's songwriting prowess.

There are musical depths and subtle shifts here that put most comparable bands to shame.

The album whizzes by in a heartening storm of pomp and power, paying perfect tribute to the rush of melodic euphoria established as part of this genre 45 or so years ago.

Meanwhile, "Night Raids" is a subtly cinematic whirlwind of double kicks and classy soloing, and the closing "Eulogy" is a phenomenal piece of retro-modern composition.

It's a deeply satisfying exercise in honoring the past with maximum intensity and melodies big enough to squash a roadie.

Above all, Tailgunner has successfully tapped into the sheer joy that heavy metal can bring.

"Midnight Blitz" is an album to listen to when the world seems like a nasty, ungracious place.

For those who love the genre, it will lift their spirits like nothing else.

Heavy metal, ladies and gentlemen: still the best cure for all your ills.