SUICIDAL ANGELS – Profane Prayer

Suicidal Angels have been moving at a steady pace since 2001. The lineup has remained the same for over a decade. Their output improves with each album. Above all, they have maintained a solid identity. This consistency has brought only benefits. These are clearly reflected in their last releases: Division of Blood (2016) and Years of Aggression (2019). These albums stand among the best expressions of post-2000 thrash.

 

It’s no coincidence that Suicidal Angels have become one of Greece’s flagship bands. They started as a revivalist act. They channeled Slayer, Kreator, and other thrash masters before gradually adding ambition and personality. The result has rewarded them. It has pushed their sound to new heights with Profane Prayer.

 

The core of the album doesn’t stray far from their previous work. The mantra remains “hit hard and fast,” following classic thrash patterns. However, the approach feels different, thanks to arrangements that are still violent but more intricate, intense, and occasionally epic. This comes from more sophisticated songwriting. High-octane tracks like When the Lions Die and Crypts of Madness show this well. They stand in contrast to measured pieces like Guard of the Insane, which remains proud and combative. The two longer tracks—Deathstalker and The Fire Paths of Fate—stand out. They feature more complex, “heroic” arrangements. Part of this is due to guest contributions from seasoned musicians Sakis Tolis, Efthimis Karadimas, and Fotis Benardo on the first track. The second track serves as a melting pot of the band’s new stylistic approaches, dellivering a satisfying and engaging result.

 

In conclusion, Profane Prayer is an album to be appreciated for what it is. It is not drastically different from previous releases, but it has more dynamic structures and a cleaner production. Experience and talent are firmly on their side. If they continue this way, there’s only room to grow.