Vortex – Metal Bats (1985)

Reigning as one of the Netherlands’ finest heavy metal bands, Vortex are surely known for their distinct sound, as perpetrated by the gritty vocal stylings of Thundervox.  At times, this record feels like a conglomeration of Mercyful Fate tracks, but obviously not as powerful.  Nonetheless, “Metal Bats” is nothing but a solid EP; no surprises, no technical fillers… just raw and gritty heavy metal!