Praying Mantis

The Profile

Praying Mantis is a British band formed in the 1970s by brothers Tino and Chris Troy and associated with the New Wave of British Heavy Metal. Known for blending heavy riffs with strong melodies and AOR elements, they debuted with Time Tells No Lies (1981) and later returned with well-regarded releases, maintaining a loyal following in the UK and Japan.

Founders: Tino Troy (guitar) and Chris Troy (bass). Associated with the NWOBHM movement; sound often leans toward melodic hard rock/AOR. Debut: Time Tells No Lies (1981). Later highlights include A Cry for the New World (1993) and Sanctuary (2009). Connections with Iron Maiden alumni Dennis Stratton (guitar) and Clive Burr (drums). Sanctuary line-up in the review features Mike Freeland (vocals), Andy Burgess (guitar), Benjy Reid (drums), with Tino and Chris Troy.

Two reviews chart Praying Mantis from their acclaimed NWOBHM-era debut Time Tells No Lies to the AOR-tinged Sanctuary. Writers praise strong melodies, tight rhythm sections, and standout vocals (notably Mike Freeland on Sanctuary). The band’s ties to Iron Maiden alumni and steady popularity in Japan resurface. Overall sentiment is warmly appreciative.