We are saddened to report the passing of Algy Ward, the former frontman of the esteemed New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) band Tank, as well as a former bassist for The Damned and The Saints. Algy Ward’s death occurred on May 17, 2023, leaving behind a rich musical legacy. In this article, we will delve into the life and career of Algy, shedding light on his contributions to the music industry, the circumstances surrounding his passing, and additional details about his remarkable journey.
Who was Algy Ward?
Alasdair Mackie, more commonly known as “Algy” Ward, was born on July 11, 1959, in Croydon, south London. He was a highly influential English musician, known for his skills as a bass guitarist and singer in both punk rock and heavy metal genres. Ward embarked on his musical journey in 1977 when he joined the Australian band The Saints as their bassist. Following this experience, he became a member of The Damned before eventually forming his own band called Tank in 1980. Tank played a significant role in the new wave of British heavy metal movement, contributing to its development and growth. Algy Ward’s contributions to the music industry, spanning across different bands and genres, have left a lasting impact and continue to be celebrated by fans and fellow musicians alike.
How did Algy Ward die: What was his Cause of death?
Algy Ward, the former frontman of the renowned New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) band Tank, as well as a former bassist for The Damned and The Saints, has sadly passed away at the age of 63. Ward’s death occurred on May 17 at Tunbridge Wells hospital, although the specific details regarding the cause of his passing have not been disclosed. It is known, however, that Ward had been grappling with significant health problems for a considerable period of time. Ward’s contributions to the music industry, particularly within the NWOBHM movement, will be remembered, and his passing leaves a void in the rock and metal community.
We were shocked to hear of dear old Algys passing last night.. the guy was simply immense as a player and a personality. In Damned terms Machine Gun Etiquette is his legacy.. that thunderous bass sound was never bettered. RIP. ♠️♠️♠️ pic.twitter.com/eecMHmqs4I
— The Damned (@thedamned) May 22, 2023
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Career of Algy Ward
Alasdair Mackie Ward, widely known as Algy Ward, made his mark in the music industry through his involvement with various bands. His journey began in 1977 when he joined the Australian punk rock band The Saints, replacing their previous bassist. Ward’s debut with The Saints was on their single “This Perfect Day” in the same year, followed by his contributions to their albums “Eternally Yours” and “Prehistoric Sounds” in 1978, during a phase when the band explored a more jazz-infused R&B sound. After a brief disbandment of The Saints, Ward became a member of the English punk band The Damned, featuring prominently on their comeback album “Machine Gun Etiquette” in 1979. However, tensions between Ward and drummer Rat Scabies led to his dismissal from the group, and he was replaced by Paul Gray.
Inspired by the influential band Motörhead and the emerging new wave of British heavy metal (NWOBHM) movement, Ward’s interest shifted towards a heavier sound. In 1980, he formed his own band, aptly named Tank, recruiting Peter and Mark Brabbs as bandmates. With the release of their debut album “Filth Hounds of Hades” in 1982, produced by Fast Eddie Clarke of Motörhead, Tank became a notable presence within the NWOBHM movement. Throughout Tank’s career, there were lineup changes, with Mick Tucker joining as a second guitarist and the departure of the Brabbs brothers. The band released several albums, including the self-titled “Tank” in 1987, but faced internal disputes and limited commercial success, leading to their dissolution in 1989.
Tank experienced multiple reunions and lineup changes in subsequent years. Ward returned as the vocalist and bassist for a reformed Tank in 1997, resulting in the release of the album “Still At War” in 2002. However, this reunion was short-lived due to legal issues and conflicts during the recording of their supposed seventh studio album. In 2008, a new iteration of Tank was formed, featuring Tucker and Evans as frontmen. This version of the band produced three albums: “War Machine” (2010), “War Nation” (2012), and “Valley of Tears” (2015), accompanied by extensive touring.
Meanwhile, Algy Ward continued his musical pursuits. He formed another version of Tank, where he was the sole musician, working on the album “Breath of the Pit” in 2013. Additionally, Ward collaborated with his friend EVO from Warfare to create the EP “Damned unto Death” under the moniker EVO/ALGY. Confirming longstanding rumors, Ward announced his involvement in the studio recording of the eighth Tank album, “Sturmpanzer,” which was eventually released in November 2018.
Throughout his career, Algy Ward left a significant impact on punk rock, heavy metal, and the NWOBHM movement, showcasing his versatility as a bassist and vocalist. His contributions to various bands and his pioneering spirit within the music industry will be remembered by fans and musicians alike.
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Tributes to Algy Ward
Lee Drage Wrote,
This is Alasdair Mackie Ward… better known to the world as “Algy”. One-time bassist of The Damned… involved in numerous projects such as Warfare, The Saints, Atom God, Warhead and Necropolis.
But most notably, he was the lead singer, bassist, founder and main songwriter of NWOBHM legends, Tank.
I’m so sorry to hear that he has left the building… 
Rock in Power Algy, I’ll shall be blasting some Tank for you today.
“Hammer On!”
Doro Pesch Official German Wrote,
R.I.P., Algy Ward of TANK!
It was great rocking with you in the early days. Everything was so fresh, new and exciting! It was such an awesome atmosphere of change!
Algy, you will be missed!
Here’s a pic from back then with TANK and some other folks who also were quite new at that time…
Love, Doro
Bulldozer Wrote,
“I want to remember our producer and friend Algy Ward! We spent a great time and he did an excellent job producing “the Day of Wrath”. This the only picture of us I found. He also enjoyed Italian Red Wine!!! R.I.P.”
AC Wild.
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