Review of Vinyl Edition of Gentle Beast’s Vampire With Reptilian Super Soldier
Swiss stoner rock group, Gentle Beast, showcases their heavy riffs and psychedelic doom on their second album, ‘Vampire With Reptilian Super Soldier.’ Hailing from the mesmerizing city of Basel, Switzerland, Gentle Beast doesn’t hold back on their hard-hitting stoner heavy rock sound. Formed in 2017, they released their debut album in 2023 and now present their follow-up in 2025, this time on vinyl, a format that truly complements their music.
The band’s lineup includes vocalist Timo Dinter, bassist Tobias Rickli, guitarists Manu Ciofalo and Janek Huschke, and drummer Alex Streit, who collectively produce a blend of classic stoner rock with hints of doom metal and modern heavy rock influences. Drawing inspiration from bands like KYUSS, FU MANCHU, and QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE, Gentle Beast crafts a heavy psychedelic stoner rock/doom sound that resonates with fans of the genre. Timo’s powerful vocals, coupled with the dynamic guitar work by Manu and Janek, evoke a raw energy reminiscent of classics like BLACK SABBATH.
As the album progresses, tracks like ‘Mammoth Roams’ and ‘Witch of the Mountain’ stand out for their captivating guitar riffs and intense energy. The second side of the album continues the same hard-hitting stoner rock/doom metal vibe, with standout tracks like ‘Endless’ and ‘Revenge of the Buffalo,’ which is hailed as the best song on the entire album by many listeners. Gentle Beast’s ability to combine massive downtuned guitar riffs with psychedelic melodies and aggressive vocals creates a unique sound that captures the essence of the stoner rock genre.
Gabor Kleinbloesem, in his review of the album, praises Gentle Beast for their authentic approach to stoner rock and doom metal, giving them a solid 8/10 rating. The band’s ability to blend heavy riffage with melodic nuances and rough vocals showcases their musical prowess and commitment to the genre. ‘Vampire With Reptilian Super Soldier’ is a testament to Gentle Beast’s dedication to crafting music that speaks to fans of stoner rock and doom metal.
Overall, Gentle Beast’s sophomore album is a testament to their musical evolution and commitment to the stoner rock genre. With powerful vocals, infectious guitar riffs, and a dynamic sound that resonates with fans, ‘Vampire With Reptilian Super Soldier’ solidifies Gentle Beast’s place in the stoner rock scene. For fans of heavy, psychedelic rock with a touch of doom, Gentle Beast’s latest offering is a must-listen.