Diamond Head guitarist Brian Tatler has suggested the band may have reached the end of their journey. He shared his thoughts about the group’s future in an interview with Metal Journal.
When asked about Diamond Head’s plans beyond their upcoming live album release, Tatler provided insight into the band’s uncertain status and his current priorities with Saxon.
“At the moment, the live album is the main thing,” Tatler said. “That comes out July 11th on Silver Lining. And after that, who knows? We haven’t got any plans to record a new album. And there are no dates in the book.”
Tatler explained how his commitment to Saxon has created scheduling conflicts that led to Diamond Head’s hiatus. He joined Saxon in March 2023.
“I just thought once I joined Saxon — and I joined in March 2023 — I just thought it was gonna be difficult to book Diamond Head gigs because Saxon is so busy that we could easily land right on top of a Diamond Head gig,” he said. “‘Cause, as you know, you book six months in advance, nine months in advance, and I didn’t wanna be in a position where I said, ‘Well, I’ve gotta do the Saxon gig, so we’ll have to cancel the Diamond Head gig and let people down,’ and et cetera, et cetera.”
The guitarist revealed that both he and the band’s management agreed on taking a break to reassess the situation.
“So I said, ‘Let’s just take a break,'” Tatler continued. “And the management advised us the same saying, ‘Take a break. Let’s see how the land lies in a year or two years.’ And then we’ll just see.”
Tatler expressed satisfaction with his current role in Saxon and reflected on his long tenure with Diamond Head.
“I’m happy where I am,” he said. “I’m really enjoying being in Saxon. We’ve done a lot of gigs already. There’s a lot more gigs coming up and we’re working on the next record. So I’ve got a lot on my plate, and I’ve almost got everything I need to fulfill my needs.”
“So I’m not craving to do Diamond Head again,” Tatler added. “I feel like I’ve been doing Diamond Head since I was 16, and it’s been a long road. But I’m happy where I am at the moment. I’m enjoying the challenge and the change. And playing with different people is fun as well.”
Tatler’s comments mark a potential end to a band that has been a cornerstone of British heavy metal for over four decades. The band faced numerous challenges throughout their career despite their influential status.
Wikipedia reported that Diamond Head didn’t perform in the United States until 2002. This represented a significant missed opportunity compared to many of their peers in the New Wave of British Heavy Metal movement who toured extensively during the 1980s. This delayed entry into the crucial American market may have contributed to the band’s struggle to achieve the commercial success that eluded them despite their influential status.
The band’s legacy remains firmly established in heavy metal history. Louder Sound documented that Diamond Head’s 1980 debut album “Lightning To The Nations” became a heavy metal classic that directly inspired bands like Metallica. Metallica covered several of its tracks including “Am I Evil?” and “The Prince.” This influence helped cement Diamond Head’s reputation as pioneers of the genre, even as commercial success remained elusive.
Diamond Head never achieved significant mainstream recognition. However, their impact on the metal scene has been undeniable. Metal Storm noted that the band continued to release albums and tour consistently throughout the decades. They maintained a dedicated fanbase and earned respect from fellow musicians and critics alike. Their persistence in the face of industry challenges exemplified the spirit of the underground metal movement.
The potential conclusion of Diamond Head’s journey would mark the end of an era for a band that helped shape the sound of heavy metal. Tatler’s focus has shifted to Saxon. However, Diamond Head’s influence on generations of metal musicians ensures their place in the genre’s history will remain secure, regardless of whether they continue as an active touring and recording entity.
Diamond Head’s live album ‘Live And Electric’ is scheduled for release on July 11th through Silver Lining Music.
