Vulture – Sentinels

Reviewed by: Blake Mossey

Review Score: 8

The German five-piece thrash band Vulture is releasing their fourth full-length album, Sentinels. For those unfamiliar with the band, expect a throwback to the early days of thrash, combined with their unique, and fresh ideas.

Brimming with rapid and intense riffs, lightning-fast guitar solos, and a relentless bass and drum barrage, the sound strongly reminds me of the early days of Exodus. This comparison comes largely from Steeler’s style of vocal delivery. Like many thrash bands, they strive to play with increasing speed and heaviness, yet they retain a knack for catchy choruses and demonstrate maturity in their songwriting.

Since their last album in 2021 Dealin’ Death they have played some big German metal festivals like Summer Breeze and Wacken. And in 2022 they joined Canadian Thrash Legends Exciter for a European tour.

This album delivers a rapid and intense experience, scarcely allowing a moment’s breath throughout its entirety. It decelerates slightly with the instrumental ‘Der Tod Trägt Schwarzes Leder,’ which features guitar parts reminiscent of Megadeth.

The remainder of the album features tempo and tonal shifts, yet it is predominantly played at a breakneck speed. The second track highlights Vulture‘s classic style with breakdowns, scorching solos, and rhythmic changes. Lyrically, the song draws inspiration from the Blind Dead Film Series, known for its insatiable bloodlust. ‘Realm Of The Impaler’ pays homage to their classic metal origins with abundant twin guitar harmonies.

My personal favorite tracks include the title track and the closing ‘Sentinels (Heavier Than Time),’ the stomping ‘Where There’s A Whip (There Is A Way),’ and the crowd participation anthem ‘Death Row.’ If you appreciate a nod to the old school ’80s thrash and are in need of some head-banging music, check out this album by Vulture.

Album available April 12th on Metal Blade Records.

Screams From The Abattoir
Unhallowed & Forgotten
Transylvania
Realm Of The Impaler
Draw Your Blades
Where There’s A Whip (There Is A Way)
Der Tod Trägt Schwarzes Leder
Death Row
Gargoyles
Oathbreaker
Sentinels (Heavier than Time)

Vulture:
L. Steeler – Vocals
S. Castevet – Guitar
M. Outlaw – Guitar
A. Axetinctör – Bass
G. Deceiver – Drums

Vulture discography:
Victim To The Blade (EP, 2016)
The Guillotine (LP, 2017)
Ghastly Waves & Battered Graves (LP, 2019)
Dealin´ Death (LP, 2021)
High Speed Metal (Single, 2022)
Sentinels (LP, 2024)

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