Examining the classic metal sound generated by the heavy metal band Sacred Steel, their most recent album, Ritual Supremacy, delivers music that can be classified as “doom metal.” Released in 2025, the long-awaited album is Sacred Steel’s first release since 2016; however, the group has been releasing albums since the 1980s. Sacred Steel is led by the frontman, Gerrit Mutz, on vocals and backed by four other band members who add a speed thrash sound on top of Mutz’s gloomy vocals.
The album’s band lineup consists of three core musicians and two others who joined in 2023: vocalist Gerritt Mutz, guitarist Jonas Khalil, guitarist Jonas Langefield, bassist Tony Ieva, and Mathias Straub on drums. All the members share a passion for classic metal bands, ranging from Metallica to Slayer. Additionally, Sacred Steel, while having its own style of thrash, shares a similar, driven thrash metal sound reminiscent of the aforementioned bands.
The second track, “Leather Spikes and Chains,” showcases some of the band’s strengths, featuring a blistering tempo and anthemic, speedy riffs. This song is one of the catchiest ones on the album. Additionally, it tells a story about a biker gang, which aligns with the band’s image.
The third track, “Watcher Infernal,” features a musical structure that begins with hardcore thrash, soon to be followed by gritty vocals, a deep, pulsating bass, and soaring guitar solos. The cyclical arrangement creates a solid foundation, making it a strong offering from Spiritual Steel. It showcases the ensemble’s ability to play death metal and seamlessly intertwine it with lyrics that portray horrific events.
The ninth track, “Omen Rider,” laced with foreboding lyrics, is another song that is the epitome of the album. It is a typical guitar-driven speed thrash song that is consistent and evokes a galloping rhythm, with an impending sense of doom. Moreover, Mutz’s high-pitched singing, along with the lyrics, is very ominous, giving the track another dimension.
If heavy metal music fans want to immerse themselves in classic European metal, with speed and aggression, then Sacred Steel is a good pick. However, if one is searching for an album that features a more modern-day sound, Sacred Steel’s Ritual Supremacy may not quite make the list.
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