VENOM guitarist Mantas' more melodic leanings are evident on his 1988 debut solo effort 'Winds Of Change', released in the period prior to his re-involvement with the band. Mantas (real name Jeff Dunn) recruited guitarist Alistair Braacken for the project, with drums supplied by Mark Savage (ex-WAR MACHINE). Mantas rejoined VENOM, requisitioning Barnes for the new line-up. Savage became lead vocalist for XLR8R.

A new MANTAS album, entitled 'Zero Tolerance', recorded at the Demolition Studios in Newcastle and produced by Italian guitarist Dario Mollo of THE CAGE, was scheduled for early 2004 release. Bass would come courtesy of former VENOM and ATOMKRAFT man Tony Dolan. The pair would be joined by singer Bry, guitarist Marsy and drummer Cherisse. The band scheduled appearances at both the New Jersey and Minnesota Metalfests in March. Unfortunately, "due to circumstances beyond the band's control", the band then withdrew from these events. The new look line-up instead debuted with a show at the London Camden Underworld on 23rd June. Originally intended as a support to MALEVOLENT CREATION, the group ended up headlining when the American act got waylayed en route.

Tony Dolan left the band in September, issuing a statement that he had "been forced to walk away" from the project. Within days, drummer Cherisse Osei also decamped due to "contractual obligations", subsequently joining a successful all girl band THE FADERS. MANTAS duly recruited Czech drummer Marthus (a.k.a. Martin Å karoupka) having previously played with GALACTIC INDUSTRY, ENTRAILS, HAPPY DEATH, MELANCHOLY PESSISM, EQUIRHODONT, SYMPHONITY and INNER FEAR.

MANTAS announced an EP release for 2005 billed 'Maximum Brutality'. Label reports gave first week sales figures in Japan for the 'Zero Tolerance' album of over 10,000 units. Live shows included an appearance at the 'Independence D' festival in Tokyo during March. MANTAS would be announced as support act to SIX FEET UNDER's October / November European tour dates. Vocalist Bri exited in early September.

It was learned that Mantas was to join German techno group SCOOTER for European shows throughout March 2006. Martin Å karoupka joined CRADLE OF FILTH in November.