Tangaroa

Tangaroa is the second studio album by New Zealand's Alien Weaponry, marking a significant evolution from their 2018 debut, Tū. Released via Napalm Records, the album expands the band's 'Te Reo Metal' sound by incorporating more progressive elements and traditional Māori instrumentation like the pūtātara and kōauau. Lyrically, the album pivots between historical narratives of Māori resistance (Titokowaru) and urgent contemporary issues like climate change and ocean pollution (Tangaroa). It is the final recording to feature original bassist Ethan Trembath, whose heavy, distorted tone defines the record's low end. Critics noted the band's maturation, comparing their rhythmic sophistication to Gojira and their cultural impact to early Soulfly. The production is polished but retains an earthy, analog warmth that allows the traditional elements to breathe alongside the high-gain guitars. It stands as a landmark for indigenous representation in global heavy metal.