Connecticut’s Turkey Vulture returns with their latest EP, On The List out on October 25th, a six-track burst of gritty punk energy and metal-infused intensity. The duo, composed of Jessie May and Jim Clegg, have created a body of work that is unapologetically raw that showcases their signature sound while throwing in a few curveballs.
From the start, it’s clear that Turkey Vulture hasn’t lost any of the ferocious bite they’re known for. Tracks like “Untitled” and “Harvest Moon” channel a no-nonsense punk attitude with layers of heavy riffs and pounding drums. These songs bridge the gap between the band’s earlier projects and their current evolution by blending past inspirations with fresh lyrical themes. Grounded and humorous contrast to the EP’s heavy sound. Jessie May says this of “Harvest Moon”,
“The new lyrics to ‘Harvest Moon’ are a result of our toddlers forcing us to watch Scooby Doo on Zombie Island several times a day for months – and of course there is the nod to quintessential American blues song ‘St. James Infirmary’ in the outro. (The song has nothing to do with Neil Young, btw.)“
Turkey Vulture’s punk attitude isn’t just about aggressive riffs, though. The EP’s standout, “Adults Destroy,” confronts the realities of climate change head-on by adding a socially conscious layer to the mix. This thematic variety is one of the EP’s strengths. Turkey Vulture doesn’t settle into one gear. “Fiends Like Us” adds a Bonnie-and-Clyde flair, complete with a gritty, ride-or-die spirit, while the Frankenstein-inspired “Dollhouse” brings an eerie narrative edge.
A true highlight comes with the final track, “Jill the Ripper.” Featuring guest musician Steve Rodgers on banjo and accordion, this song is an unexpected twist. Folky yet just as grim as the EP’s heavier cuts. It’s a bold step outside their usual sonic palette but it fits seamlessly thanks to the grim humour that runs throughout On The List.
What makes On The List stand out is the balance of Turkey Vulture’s punk-metal ferocity with a willingness to experiment, both musically and lyrically. The EP delivers a fierce, unpolished, and uniquely engaging listen no matter if you’re a fan of stoner rock, punk, or metal. It’s an album that feels personal yet heavy-hitting, with a DIY ethos that only adds to its charm.
Turkey Vulture proves once again that they are a duo that refuses to be boxed in. Whether they’re tackling climate change or paying homage to childhood TV marathons, they keep one on their toes with a sound that’s both aggressive and surprisingly multifaceted.
