The boys are back and bringing metal

RETURN OF Doom: Back together for a one-off show, from left, Anthony Waigth, Steven Bernstein, Rob Matete, Mike Pomana, Dion Whaanga and Lawrence Rangi are bringing Troops of Doom to Smash Palace this Saturday. Picture by Rebecca Grunwell

After a three-decade hiatus, some of Tairawhiti's most talented musicians are returning to the stage as Troops of Doom for another round at Smash Palace.

In a Wild Hogs-esque style, the band are dusting off the metal regalia and stepping out of modern life to return to the stage this Saturday, with Fuse Box from Te Karaka opening the show.

Band instigator Mike Pomana had been playing on the international circuit in Asia and the Middle East when Covid-19 hit and he decided to make his way home.

“I masterminded this while I was in lockdown in Indonesia last year,” Pomana says.

Apart from Lytton boy Rob Matete, the rest of the members are former Boys' High students.

“It was about getting the boys back together for a one-off and have some fun playing what we used to back in the day.”

Troops of Doom will be playing covers of '80s and '90s classic rock and metal, giving the people a “proper show”.

Being all professional-grade musicians, there is no lack of talent. The likes of Lawrence Rangi and Dion Whaanga used to play in Skankamelia back in the day.

Half the band can play the drums, sing and play guitar so expect to see the band jumping around the instruments.

Troops of Doom, come along for heavy metal music. Smash Palace, Saturday, 9pm. Tickets: $10 door sales.