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Tigertailz
Tigertailz
Tigertailz
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Tigertailz are a Welsh glam metal band from Cardiff. Their 1990 album Bezerk made the Top 40 on the UK Albums Chart and contained the hit singles "Love Bomb Baby" and "Heaven".[1] The band reformed in 2005.[2]

Key Information

History

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Formation and early years

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Tigertailz (originally Stagefright) formed in 1984[3] when guitarist Jay Pepper joined bassist Pepsi Tate and drummer Ian Welch, responding to their advert in Cardiff record store Spillers Records.[4] Adding guitarist Phil Harling and singer Jim Dovey, the band amassed a local following. Former Treason and Crash KO members vocalist Steevi Jaimz (Steve Denham) replaced Dovey, and drummer Ace Finchum (Stephen Wayne Finchum)[5] replaced Welch to complete the line-up for the band's debut album.[4]

Commercial success (1987-1995)

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Part of the nascent glam metal scene in the late 1980s, Tigertailz issued their debut album, Young and Crazy, in 1987 with Jaimz, Pepper, Tate, and Finchum.[6] The album included their first single, "Livin' Without You".

There was conflict among band members as Tigertailz toured, so the band recruited Kim Hooker to replace Jaimz for follow-up album Bezerk, released in 1990 on Music For Nations.[6]

Prior to the release of Bezerk, the band re-recorded "Livin' Without You" with Hooker as vocalist, releasing it as a single. Bezerk saw the band break through as a headline act, and delivered three singles, "Love Bomb Baby",[7] "Noise Level Critical" and "Heaven". The album peaked at number 36 on the UK Albums Chart.[1]

Tigertailz released Banzai!, a collection of B-sides and re-recorded tracks, in 1991 in Japan. They also issued Wazbones in 1995, by which time the line-up had fragmented. Cy Danahar replaced Pepper on lead guitar, and Andy Skinner replaced Finchum on drums. The band toured, but was unable to secure a record label deal to sustain the band.

Reunion (2005-2009)

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In 2005, the band reformed their classic line-up, replacing Andy Skinner with former City Kidds drummer Matt Blakout. The band won a court order for ownership of the Tigertailz name, reclaiming it from a spin-off band fronted by Steevi Jaimz.

They completed a reunion tour of the United Kingdom, then performed in festivals in Sweden and Spain for more than 70,000 people with Whitesnake and Twisted Sister. Kerrang! magazine wrote in praise of the reunion, journalist Steve Beebee describing it as "persistently entertaining, with monstrous melodies that reach delirious peaks".[citation needed]

Bezerk 2.0 was released on Demolition Records in August 2006.

On 18 September 2007, aged 42, Pepsi Tate died after suffering with pancreatic cancer. He died at Holme Towers Cancer Hospice in Penarth only a few weeks after he had married his longtime partner, Welsh opera singer Shân Cothi.[8]

The band signed a new recording contract with Sanctuary Records, and in August 2007 released Thrill Pistol, a double album packaged with the previously unreleased original version of 1992's Wazbones album. Beebee praised the album in Kerrang!, calling on fans to "kindly hail this rejuvenated band for the time-defying devils they are".[citation needed] It was dedicated to Pepsi and his family.

Following Tate's death in September 2007, Tigertailz continued to tour with former City Kidds lead guitarist Glenn "Nailz" Quinn playing bass. They played numerous European festival shows, supported Ace Frehley in the UK, and performed at the UK's Hard Rock Hell festival in 2008 and 2009.

Bezerk anniversary (2010)

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In January 2010, Tigertailz recruited Sarah Firebrand, briefly a member of alternative band We've Got a Fuzzbox and We're Gonna Use It, as their new bass player. They played Bezerk entirely in sequence at some live shows, recording some performances for a future live album. After an April benefit performance at the Fuel Rock Club in Cardiff for the Amser Justin Time charity, set up in Pepsi Tate's memory, the band headlined the Stockholm Rock Out Festival in Sweden in May.

Following further Bezerk Live dates, Tigertailz replaced drummer Matt Blakout with former Rachel Stamp drummer Robin Guy. Tigertailz headlined the first night of 2010's Hard Rock Hell and released Bezerk Live - Burnin' Fuel in December. In June 2011, Ace Finchum rejoined the band.

They were expected to record their next studio album in 2011 but in an interview with the Queens of Steel webzine,[9] Jay Pepper cast doubt on the future of the band, saying, "(It's) facing a crossroads as to its survival. I don't know if we can survive the latest troubles."

The band parted company with Sarah Firebrand in late 2011.[10] Frontman Kim Hooker left in 2012, the remaining members citing "a total breakdown of relationship resulting from the singer's unprofessional conduct".[11]

New line-up (2012)

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On 26 June 2012, Tigertailz announced its new line-up, and a European tour for September and October. Joining original members Jay Pepper and Ace Finchum were Jules Millis (vocals), Rob Wylde (guitar) and Jason Sims (bass). The band re-recorded an old song, "Fall In Love Again", and filmed a video for it - with all proceeds going towards a charity set up in Pepsi Tate's memory.[12][non-primary source needed]

After a tour and an appearance at the Hard Rock Hell festival, this line-up fragmented in 2013. In a statement, Jay Pepper confirmed that there would be no reunion but that he would continue to perform as Tigertailz, and in June 2013 it was confirmed that drummer Matthew Blakout had re-joined the band, with Wylde switching from guitar to bass, and a new EP 'Knives' being prepared for release.

On 7 October 2013, the Classic Rock Magazine website premiered Tigertailz latest video "The Shoe Collector", ahead of the release of the "Knives" EP on 15 October. The magazine described it as "a major step on Tigertailz’ road back from the brink".[13] On 17 February 2014, Classic Rock premiered the second video release from "Knives" EP "One Life". On 30 June 2014, Classic Rock once again premiered the final video from "Knives" EP "Punched In The Gutz" Filmed in Cardiff's St David's Hall in November 2013.[14]

Tigertailz announced European tour dates for Autumn 2014 and also made their US debut. They supported Kiss and Cheap Trick on the 2014 Kiss Kruise.

A further line up change happened in 2015 when vocalist Jules Millis was replaced by guitarist turned bassist now turned vocalist Rob Wylde, with the bass position being filled by Berty Burton.

In 2016, this line up released the song "Pipped It, Popped It" which they - unsuccessfully - submitted for consideration as a UK Eurovision Song Contest entry. The song was included on the largely ignored 2016 Blast album released on the band's own TT Records.

In 2019, the band were forced to cancel an appearance at Hard Rock Hell due to guitarist Jay Pepper's worsening hearing loss.

Tigertailz made a headline appearance at the 2021 Hard Rock Hell event in Sheffield 1 August 2021 to a sold out crowd and followed up with a performance at another Hard Rock Hell festival in Great Yarmouth 6 November, with Jay Pepper having overcome his hearing difficulties.

Jay Pepper confirmed Tigertailz would continue to perform and record into 2022.

On 20 May 2022, the Tigertailz FaceBook page announced that Rob Wylde was no longer a member of the band. On 17 December 2022 the band announced that Dendera and Power Quest frontman Ashley Edison would be joining the band as the new vocalist.[15]

Former drummer Ace Finchum died in October 2025, at the age of 62.[16]

Bare Knuckle Messiahs

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A second Tigertailz reunion (of sorts) took place in 2019 when departed vocalist Kim Hooker announced his new band Bare Knuckle Messiahs which features Hooker on vocals and guitar, joined by two former "Wazbones" era Tigertailz members, guitarist Cy Danaher and drummer Andy Skinner, with the line up being rounded out with the addition of bassist JJ.[17] Hooker's new band released their debut album That Which Preys On The Dead through the DIAFOL label in October 2019.

Band members

[edit]
Current members
  • Jay Pepper – lead guitar, backing vocals (1984–1994, 2005–present)
  • Matthew Blakout – drums, percussion (2005–2010, 2013–present)
  • Ashley Edison - lead vocals (2022–present)
Past members
  • Steevi Jaimz - lead vocals (1984–1988)
  • Kim Hooker – lead vocals, occasional rhythm guitar (1988–1996, 2005–2012)
  • Jules Millis – lead vocals (2012–2015)
  • Rob Wylde - lead vocals (2015–2022), rhythm guitar (2012–2013), bass (2013–2015)
  • Berty Burton - bass (2015–2024)
  • Cy Danahar - lead guitar (1994–1996)
  • Pepsi Tate - bass (1984–1996, 2005–2007; died 2007)
  • Glenn Quinn - bass (2007–2009)
  • Sarah Firebrand - bass (2010–2012)
  • Andy Skinner - drums (1991–1996)
  • Jason Sims – bass, backing vocals (2012–2013)
  • Ace Finchum – drums, percussion, backing vocals (1984–1991, 2011–2013; died 2025)
  • Robin Guy – drums (2010–2011; died 2024)

Timeline

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Discography

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Studio albums

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Live albums

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  • You Lookin' at Me? (1996) (live)
  • Bezerk Live-Burnin' Fuel (2010)

EPs

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  • Knives (2013)
  • Shoot To Kill (2016)

References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Tigertailz

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Tigertailz are a band formed in , , in 1983 by bassist Pepsi Tate, guitarist Jay Pepper, and vocalist/guitarist Kim Hooker following an advertisement placed in a local record shop. Known for their high-energy, Sunset Strip-inspired image despite hailing from , the band achieved notable success in the late 1980s and early 1990s, particularly with their 1990 album Bezerk, which reached the UK Top 40 and featured hit singles like "Love Bomb Baby." The band's early years were marked by frequent lineup changes, especially at the vocalist position, with Steevi Jaimz joining as frontman for their 1987 debut album Young and Crazy on , which helped establish their presence on the British metal scene. Subsequent releases included the 1995 album Wazbones and a revival in the 2000s with Bezerk 2.0 (2006) and Thrill Pistol (2007), though tragedy struck in 2007 when founding bassist Pepsi Tate passed away from . Despite challenges, Tigertailz have remained active into the , with guitarist Jay Pepper as the sole constant member leading a current lineup featuring vocalist Ashley Edison, Berty Burton, and Matt Blakout. Their music has seen renewed interest, including the licensing of "Love Bomb Baby" for the 2022 HBO Max series Peacemaker, and recent archival releases like the 2025 box set For A Few Dollarz More (The Archives Vol. 1: 1984–1991), underscoring their enduring legacy in the genre.

History

Formation and early years (1984–1986)

Tigertailz originated in , , in 1983, initially operating under the name Stagefright. The band was founded when bassist Pepsi Tate and drummer Ian Welch placed an advertisement in a local record store seeking a , leading to the recruitment of Jay Pepper to form the core lineup. This formation occurred amid the rising popularity of the 1980s glam metal scene, which influenced their developing sound and image. In their early days, Stagefright focused on building a presence through local performances across and recording initial unsigned demos. The group experimented with various frontmen, including Phil Harling and Jim Dovey, while second guitarist Keith Tosh briefly joined in 1984 before departing alongside Dovey. These activities helped refine their high-energy, sleazy rock style, blending with emerging glam elements during small club shows in the Welsh music circuit. By 1985, the band rebranded as Tigertailz to better align with their flamboyant glam metal aesthetic, emphasizing visual flair and melodic hooks inspired by American hair metal acts. Vocalist Steevi Jaimz, formerly of NWOBHM band Treason, joined via a music paper advertisement, bringing a distinctive, raspy delivery that elevated their performances. Drummer Ace Finchum replaced Ian Welch, solidifying the classic lineup of Jaimz on vocals, Pepper on guitar, Tate on bass, and Finchum on drums. Throughout 1985 and 1986, Tigertailz continued playing regional gigs and produced several unsigned demos, including tracks like "Can't Sleep" and "Body & Soul," which captured their raw, party-oriented sound. The buzz from these recordings and live shows attracted industry attention, culminating in a signing with the influential heavy metal label in 1986.

Commercial breakthrough and peak (1987–1995)

In 1987, Tigertailz signed a deal with the rock label Music For Nations, which at the time rostered acts like Metallica, Poison, and Stryper, marking their entry into the professional music industry. The band released their debut album, Young and Crazy, later that year, recorded in just two weeks and featuring a raw, heavy glam metal sound with singles including "Livin' Without You" and "Shoot to Kill". Supporting the album's promotion, Tigertailz embarked on extensive tours across the UK, Germany, and the Netherlands, building a dedicated fanbase in the burgeoning glam metal scene through their flamboyant, sleazy stage presence characterized by high-energy performances and exaggerated rock imagery. Founding bassist Pepsi Tate played a pivotal role in shaping the band's sound during this period, contributing driving bass lines that underpinned their aggressive riffs and also handling artwork for the album cover. The band's momentum carried into lineup adjustments that defined their commercial peak. Original vocalist Steevi Jaimz departed amid internal conflicts during touring, replaced by Kim Hooker, while drummer Ace Finchum was sacked in 1991 and succeeded by Andy Skinner. This refreshed configuration delivered Bezerk in , a pop-infused effort that peaked at number 36 on the and produced hit singles "Love Bomb Baby" and the "," both of which charted on the UK rock listings. The album's success led to filmed live performances, including Bezerk: Live 1990 captured at Cardiff's St David's Hall and London's Astoria, showcasing their evolving image—still rooted in glamorous excess but leaning into more accessible, radio-friendly hooks. Tate's bass work remained central, providing a gritty foundation that balanced the album's sleazier edge with melodic accessibility, while the band conducted promotional press in the alongside manager and future Catatonia drummer Jon Lee. Building on Bezerk's momentum, Tigertailz released Banzai! in 1991, a Japan-exclusive compilation of B-sides, re-recorded tracks, and live cuts tailored for their growing international following in , which facilitated tours there and further European dates. The band's glam aesthetic continued to evolve, incorporating harder, funk-tinged elements amid the scene's diversification, though their core visual flair—leather, makeup, and provocative antics—persisted in live shows. By 1995, amid the explosion that overshadowed , Tigertailz issued Wazbones, originally recorded in 1992 but delayed by legal battles and over $200,000 in production costs; the album shifted toward a darker, sleaze-rock style with tracks like "Tear Your Fucking Heart Out," reflecting declining popularity as tastes turned away from their signature sound. Tate's contributions extended to backing vocals and design on Wazbones, underscoring his enduring influence before the band's temporary dissolution.

Hiatus and initial reunion (1996–2009)

Following the release of their 1995 album Wazbones, Tigertailz entered a hiatus in 1996, prompted by the broader decline of the genre amid shifting music industry trends and internal conflicts with management and their . During this period, band members pursued individual endeavors outside the group. Former vocalist Steevi Jaimz, who had departed in 1988, continued his solo career, releasing the EP Kick That Habit - Cat on a Hot Tin Roof through Carlin Music Publishing and later albums such as My Private Hell in 2009, blending with personal themes. Meanwhile, bassist Pepsi Tate focused on recovery and occasional musical collaborations, though his health began to deteriorate due to diagnosed in 2006. Interest in Tigertailz resurfaced in the early through fan-driven demand, leading to deluxe reissues of key albums like Bezerk and Banzai! in 2005, which featured remastered tracks, unreleased photos, and new artwork to appeal to collectors and nostalgic audiences. This renewed attention paved the way for the band's reunion in 2005, reforming the classic lineup of vocalist Kim Hooker, guitarist Jay Pepper, and bassist Pepsi Tate, augmented by drummer Matt Blakout replacing the departed Andy Skinner. The reunited group signed with and recorded Bezerk 2.0, a re-recording of their 1990 album Bezerk, which was released on September 4, 2006, by Demolition Records. They then recorded Thrill Pistol, released on August 27, 2007, which marked a return to their high-energy sound with tracks like "Brain the Sucker" and "Get Real." However, the reunion faced significant challenges from Tate's ongoing illness; despite his contributions to the album, he passed away on September 18, 2007, at age 42, shortly after its release, profoundly impacting the band's momentum and emotional core.

Anniversary celebrations and lineup shifts (2010–2015)

In 2010, Tigertailz celebrated the 20th anniversary of their 1990 album Bezerk with a dedicated tour, performing the record in its entirety at select shows across the , including a headline slot at the Hard Rock Hell festival. The tour captured the band's high-energy style, drawing fans nostalgic for their early peak. To commemorate the milestone, they released the live album Bezerk Live - Burnin' Fuel on December 6, 2010, via TT Records, featuring recordings from the tour with vocalist Kim Hooker, guitarist Jay Pepper, bassist Sarah Firebrand, and drummer Robin Guy. However, internal challenges emerged, culminating in Hooker's exit in March 2012 due to a "total breakdown of trust and communication" with bandmates Jay Pepper and Ace Finchum, who had rejoined on drums in June 2011. In response, Tigertailz unveiled a revamped lineup in June 2012, introducing vocalist Jules Millis, guitarist Rob Wylde, and bassist Jason Sims alongside Pepper and Finchum, which enabled the recording of reinterpreted tracks from their catalog. This configuration supported continued activity, including and European headline dates. The group released the Knives EP in September 2013 on Scarlet Records, a five-track effort showcasing raw, sleaze-infused with tracks like "Shoe Collector" and "One Life," marking their first new studio material since bassist Tate's death in 2007. Despite the creative output, persistent internal tensions—stemming from creative differences and personal conflicts—led to additional lineup instability by 2015, including the departure of Finchum in 2013 and further adjustments that tested the band's cohesion during European tours and appearances like the 2014 Kruise.

Recent activities and lineup changes (2016–present)

In 2016, Tigertailz released their album Blast on April 25 through TT Records, marking their first full-length studio effort in a decade and featuring new vocalist Rob Wylde, who had joined the band in 2015 alongside core member Jay Pepper on guitar. The album showcased a return to the band's roots with tracks like "Just For One Night" and a cover of Mud's "," produced by Pepper and emphasizing high-energy hooks. Later that year, on November 14, the band issued a limited-edition vinyl reissue of their debut EP Shoot to Kill on pink pressing, re-recording the original 1987 tracks with the evolving lineup including Wylde on lead vocals, Pepper on guitar, and supporting members Matt Blakout and others to refresh the material for contemporary audiences. As live music resumed following the COVID-19 pandemic, Tigertailz made notable appearances at the Hard Rock Hell festivals in 2021, including a headline set at HRH Sleaze IV in Sheffield on August 28–29 where they performed their 1990 album Bezerk in full to a sold-out crowd, and another at the main HRH event in Great Yarmouth on November 6. These performances highlighted the band's resilience amid global recovery efforts, with reviews praising their party-hard energy and crowd engagement in the post-lockdown era. Significant lineup changes occurred in 2022 when vocalist Rob Wylde departed the band in May, a move initially described by the group as due to issues of and , though Wylde later clarified that he chose to leave rather than being fired. By December 17, Tigertailz announced Ashley Edison—previously of Power Quest and —as their new lead singer, bringing a hard-hitting vocal style to the lineup alongside Pepper, bassist Berty Burton, and drummer Matt Blakout. This transition aimed to stabilize the band for future endeavors, with Edison's addition noted for injecting fresh dynamism into their live shows. On October 8, 2025, former Tigertailz drummer Ace Finchum— an original member who played on the band's first three albums—passed away at age 62, prompting tributes from bandmates and fans that underscored his foundational role in the group's early sound. In January 2025, the band released the archival For A Few Dollarz More (The Archives Vol. 1: –), compiling early demos, EPs, and rarities from their formative years. The loss impacted ongoing plans, including potential commemorative events tied to the band's 40th anniversary, as Pepper and others reflected on Finchum's contributions amid a period of renewed interest in their catalog. In the post-pandemic landscape through 2025, Tigertailz maintained an active touring presence with and European dates, such as their 2024 tour culminating at in , where sets drew strong fan reception for blending classic hits like "Love Bomb Baby" with newer material under Edison's vocals. Fan feedback has highlighted the band's enduring appeal, with sold-out festival slots and positive reviews emphasizing their high-octane performances and adaptability, though no major 2025 tours were confirmed immediately following Finchum's death.

Band members

Current members

The current lineup of Tigertailz, as of 2025, consists of four members who have been instrumental in the band's recent activities and performances. Jay Pepper serves as the lead guitarist and , having been involved with the band continuously since its formation in , making him the sole original member to remain throughout its history. Pepper's longstanding presence has provided continuity, drawing from his foundational role in shaping the band's signature sound during its early years. Berty Burton handles bass, having joined in 2015 and contributing to the band's in recent releases and tours. Matthew Blakout handles drums and percussion, with tenures spanning 2005–2010 and 2013 to the present, contributing significantly to the band's reunion efforts and live stability. Ashley Edison joined as lead vocalist in 2022, infusing the band's performances with renewed energy and a powerful stage presence that has revitalized their shows.

Former members

Steevi Jaimz served as the original lead vocalist of Tigertailz from 1984 to 1991 and rejoined the band from 2005 to 2011, delivering high-energy performances that defined the group's early glam metal sound on albums like Young and Crazy (1987). His tenure ended in 1991 amid reports of internal conflicts and his reputation for tumultuous behavior, leading to his replacement by Kim Hooker for the album Bezerk. Jaimz later pursued solo projects and other bands, occasionally referencing his time with Tigertailz as a formative but challenging period marked by creative clashes. Pepsi Tate, the band's founding bassist, contributed from 1984 to 1995 and returned briefly from 2005 until his death in 2007, co-writing key tracks such as "Shoot to Kill" and providing the driving rhythm foundation for Tigertailz's commercial hits during their peak years. Diagnosed with in early 2007, Tate passed away on September 18, 2007, at age 42, prompting tributes from bandmates and fans for his pivotal role in shaping the band's songwriting and stage presence. Ace Finchum, the original , anchored Tigertailz's from 1984 to 1995 and rejoined from 2011 to 2013, contributing to the band's raw, energetic style across their first three studio albums and live performances. Finchum died on October 5, 2025, at age 62, with his former bandmate Jay Pepper confirming the news and highlighting his enduring influence as the "backbone" of the group's sound. Kim Hooker fronted Tigertailz as from 1988 to 1996 and again from 2005 to 2012, bringing a more mature edge to albums like Bezerk (1990) and Thrill Pistol (2006) while handling guitar duties on select tracks. He departed in 2012 citing personal and creative reasons, subsequently forming projects like Bare Knuckle Messiahs with ex-bandmates. Rob Wylde joined as lead vocalist in 2012 and remained until 2022, contributing to releases such as Shoot to Kill (2013) with his powerful, arena-ready delivery that revitalized the band's live shows during a period of lineup transitions. Wylde left voluntarily in May 2022 to focus on his band Midnite City, later clarifying that the departure was amicable despite rumors of discord.

Timeline of lineup changes

Tigertailz was founded in 1984 in , , with the core lineup consisting of vocalist Steevi Jaimz, Jay Pepper, bassist Pepsi Tate, and drummer Ace Finchum. In 1988, following the release of the band's debut album Young and Crazy, Jaimz departed and was replaced by Kim Hooker as , a change that carried through to the 1990 album Bezerk. By the mid-1990s, further shifts occurred: Finchum was replaced on drums by Andy Skinner, and Cy Danaher joined as a second for the 1995 album Wazbones, while Hooker, Pepper, and Tate remained. The band went on hiatus after Wazbones until reforming in 2005 with vocalist Kim Hooker, guitarist Jay Pepper, bassist Pepsi Tate, and Matt Blakout. Bassist Tate died of on September 18, 2007, at age 42. In June 2011, original Ace Finchum rejoined the band alongside Hooker and Pepper. In June 2013, drummer Matt Blakout rejoined the band, replacing Ace Finchum. Hooker left in March 2012, leading to the introduction of vocalist Jules Millis and guitarist Rob Wylde, with the lineup announced in June 2012 as Millis (vocals), Pepper (guitar), Wylde (guitar), Finchum (drums), and bassist Jason Sims. Millis departed in March 2015 due to personal reasons, after which Wylde shifted to lead vocals and Berty Burton joined on bass. In May 2022, Wylde left the band, and on December 17, 2022, Ashley Edison joined as the new lead vocalist, completing the current lineup with Pepper, Burton, and drummer Matthew Blakout. Original drummer Ace Finchum passed away on October 5, 2025, at age 62.
YearKey Lineup Change
1984Formation: Steevi Jaimz (vocals), Jay Pepper (guitar), Pepsi Tate (bass), Ace Finchum (drums).
1988Steevi Jaimz departs; Kim Hooker joins as vocalist.
Early 1990sAce Finchum replaced by Andy Skinner (drums); Cy Danaher joins (guitar).
2005Reunion: Kim Hooker (vocals), Jay Pepper (guitar), Pepsi Tate (bass), Matt Blakout (drums).
2007Pepsi Tate dies.
2011Ace Finchum rejoins (drums).
2012Kim Hooker departs; Jules Millis joins (vocals), Rob Wylde joins (guitar).
2013Matt Blakout rejoins (drums), replacing Ace Finchum; Rob Wylde shifts to bass.
2015Jules Millis departs; Rob Wylde shifts to lead vocals; Berty Burton joins (bass).
2022Rob Wylde departs; Ashley Edison joins (vocals).
2025Ace Finchum dies.

Discography

Studio albums

Tigertailz's studio discography reflects their evolution from high-energy to heavier, sleaze-influenced rock, with releases marked by lineup changes and shifting production styles. Their debut album established a raw, street-level sound, while subsequent works achieved commercial peaks and explored international markets before a hiatus. Post-reunion efforts brought modern production and renewed vigor, maintaining the band's core glam ethos amid personnel shifts. Young and Crazy (1987), released on Music for Nations, served as Tigertailz's debut full-length album, emphasizing a gritty glam rock style with energetic riffs and anthemic choruses that captured the late-1980s hair metal scene. The record featured original vocalist Steevi Jaimz and showcased the band's Cardiff roots through tracks blending punk attitude with glossy hooks, earning praise as an underappreciated gem in the genre for its vibrant energy and memorable melodies. While it did not chart prominently, the album achieved moderate sales in the UK, helping to build a cult following and setting the stage for their breakthrough. Bezerk (1990), also on , marked Tigertailz's commercial breakthrough, peaking at number 36 on the and spawning hit singles like "Love Bomb Baby" and "." Produced by renowned engineer at Great Linford Manor Studios, the album shifted toward a more polished, pop-infused sound with layered vocals and bombastic arrangements, receiving widespread critical acclaim for its infectious hooks and high production values. Reviewers hailed it as one of the era's standout glam records, praising its wild energy and radio-friendly appeal that propelled the band to wider recognition. Banzai! (1991), issued exclusively in by , functioned as a follow-up collection of B-sides, outtakes, and singles tailored for the Asian market, incorporating thematic nods to Japanese culture through its explosive title and content. The album retained the flair of its predecessor but with a looser, experimental edge, including covers and rarities that highlighted the band's versatility. Its release coincided with Tigertailz's popularity in , leading to tours across that solidified their international fanbase in the region. Critics noted its solid songwriting despite its compilation nature, rating it highly among the band's output for its raw charm. Wazbones (1995), released on Minority One Records after delays due to label issues and lineup instability, represented Tigertailz's heaviest pivot yet, blending sleaze rock with thrash-influenced riffs and darker themes. Recorded in 1994 with vocalist Kim Hooker and a reduced core lineup, the album featured aggressive tracks like "Wazbonez" that echoed influences from KISS and Mötley Crüe but with greater intensity, earning positive reception for its bold evolution and replay value. As the band's final pre-hiatus release, it underscored their resilience amid challenges, though it saw limited commercial distribution. Bezerk 2.0 (2006), released on Demolition Records, served as a sequel to the band's breakthrough , featuring re-recorded versions of original tracks alongside new material in a polished style. With production emphasizing the band's classic sound, it included songs like "Bezerk" and "I Believe," receiving attention from fans for its nostalgic yet refreshed approach during the early reunion phase. Thrill Pistol (2007), issued on Castle Music as part of a double-CD set including the bonus Wazbones disc, marked Tigertailz's reunion effort following an 11-year gap, reuniting key members like bassist Pepsi Tate and guitarist Jay Pepper with Hooker on vocals. The album returned to sleazy, riff-driven with modern touches, self-handled in production to capture a raw, band-in-the-room feel across tracks emphasizing high-octane energy and hooks. Reception was mixed, with praise for its unpretentious fun and nods to classic glam, though some critiqued its uneven execution; it nonetheless reaffirmed the band's enduring appeal to fans. Blast (2016), released independently via TT Records—the band's own imprint—the album introduced new vocalist Rob Wylde and featured contemporary production that revitalized Tigertailz's sound with fresh lineup contributions. Tracks like "Just For One Night" and "FnA" delivered upbeat, hook-laden rock with polished mixes, drawing acclaim for its vitality and return to the band's fun-loving roots after years of lineup flux. Critics lauded its energetic execution and modern relevance, rating it among the band's strongest post-reunion works for blending nostalgia with forward momentum.

Live albums

Tigertailz's initial foray into live recordings came with the 1996 compilation You Lookin' at Me? The Best of Tigertailz Live, released by the independent label TT Records. This 11-track album features selections from the band's live performances during their active period, including staples like "Tyfho," "Love Overload," and "Dirty Needles," emphasizing their high-octane delivery on . Clocking in at around 41 minutes, it served as a of their touring energy post the Wazbones era, without the polish of studio productions. The band revisited live material over a decade later with Bezerk: Live... Burnin' Fuel, released on December 6, 2010, by TT Records to mark the 20th anniversary of their seminal album Bezerk. Recorded in 2010 at Aerial Studios in Carmarthenshire during anniversary celebrations, this 12-track set includes full live interpretations of all ten songs from Bezerk—such as "Sick Sex," "Love Bomb Baby," and "Noise Level Critical"—plus covers of "Heaven" by Ratt and "Cum on Feel the Noize" by Quiet Riot. Running 51 minutes, the album captures the lineup's revitalized performance at events like Hard Rock Hell, blending raw crowd interaction with faithful reproductions of fan favorites.

Extended plays and singles

Tigertailz released their debut extended play, Shoot to Kill, in 1987 through the independent label TT Records, consisting of three tracks—"Shoot to Kill", "She's Too Hot", and "Living Without You"—that showcased the band's early glam metal style and served as an introduction ahead of their full-length album. Among the band's notable singles from their commercial peak, "Love Bomb Baby" (1989, Music For Nations) stood out as a promotional release from their album Bezerk, reaching number 75 on the UK Singles Chart over three weeks and featuring a live rendition of "She'z Too Hot" as its B-side. Similarly, "Heaven" (1990, Music For Nations) charted at number 71 in the UK for two weeks, highlighting the band's melodic hard rock elements. In the reunion era, Tigertailz issued the Knives EP in on Scarlet Records, comprising five tracks of new material—"Shoe Collector" (5:12), "One Life" (4:20), "Bite the Hand" (4:00), "Spit It Out" (3:21), and "Punched in the Gutz" (4:34)—which marked the recording debut of vocalist Jules Millis alongside guitarist Jay Pepper, bassist Rob Wylde, and drummer Matt Blakout following significant lineup shifts. The Shoot to Kill EP followed in 2016 as an independent re-recording on TT Records, revisiting the originals with the contemporary lineup for a limited-edition vinyl pressing limited to 250 hand-numbered copies, emphasizing an aggressive, high-energy glam sound that complemented the band's ongoing revival activities. The release included the same three tracks and acted as a bridge to their later full-length efforts. "You Can't Stop The Rock" (2023), an independent digital single, marked the band's first new original material in seven years, featuring high-energy with guitarist Jay Pepper leading the current lineup, and was accompanied by a .

References

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  2. https://www.loudersound.com/features/tigertailz
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  15. https://melodicrock.com/artist/steevi-jaimz
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  63. https://www.loudersound.com/news/tigertailz-jules-millis-quits
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