Behind The Tracks: Patchwork - The Vulture (Single) (2025)
Every song tells a story, and The Vulture by Patchwork carries with it a deep well of emotion, loss, and creativity. This track stands out on the Scars album not only for its musical complexity but also for the heartfelt journey that led to its creation. The lyrics, written by Mark Sheetz, were inspired by a profoundly emotional moment. After attending the funeral of Brad Carlson’s mother, Mark stood at the burial site and noticed a vulture circling ominously in the sky. The sight stirred thoughts about the cruel nature of sickness and death—their ability to steal loved ones without care or remorse, much like a vulture preying on the vulnerable. This visceral imagery became the foundation for the song, a reflection on grief and the shadow of loss.
Musically, The Vulture is Patchwork’s most dynamic and diverse piece. It begins with frantic energy, burning through the lyrics early before slowing into a calm acoustic interlude. The song then roars back to life with a thunderous solo and an aggressive, electrifying conclusion. This shifting structure mirrors the turbulence of grief, swinging between chaos and calm. The track’s creation evolved significantly from its initial conception. The opening section, for instance, was recorded at a slower tempo. However, once Brad Carlson recorded the first riff, the band realized the song needed a faster pace to achieve the intensity they envisioned.
The acoustic interlude also underwent a significant transformation. Initially a much simpler arrangement, it came to life when Jason and Brad asked Dave to craft an acoustic part to complement the existing leads. Rising to the challenge, Dave composed and recorded the section in a single night. That interlude was nearly complete until the bass lines were recorded when the band realized the section demanded more impact. Brad stepped in to write and record the solo, solidifying the interlude as a centerpiece of the track.
For Mark Sheetz, The Vulture was his sole physical contribution to the Scars album. Due to the extreme neuropathy in his hands caused by chemotherapy, Mark could no longer play or record his guitar parts. Despite this, his influence on the album was immense. He acted as a sounding board for ideas, providing feedback on riffs and passages and helping to shape the music into what became distinctively Patchwork. His lyrics for The Vulture became a poignant and lasting legacy, a testament to his artistry and connection with the band.
The Vulture is more than just a song; it is a powerful tribute to resilience, creativity, and the enduring bonds of friendship. It captures the raw emotions of its creators while inviting listeners to reflect on their own experiences with loss and hope. Through its masterful composition and deeply personal backstory, The Vulture stands as a cornerstone of Patchwork’s artistry and a reminder of the profound impact music can have on both its creators and its audience.
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