Cripper - Hyëna (2014)

   Similar to most German bands in general, Cripper also tried to do things a bit different if it's about concept and lyrical topics. At one hand this always turns out to be a good idea, cause this way many bands could have the chance to form their own (and many times odd) character. But the forced struggles to avoid clichés led to the development of hipsterization, that of course in Germany became the strongest trend, and ended up as the biggest cliché ever.
   However, Cripper's endeavours more reflected the "want to be different" ambitions of the '90s German scene, that was pretty much consolidated compared the followings, and therefore despite Cripper had a pretty modern sound of thrash and their music was far from any '80s or '90s nostalgia, still sounded quite old school in their own time. Their energetic, intense thrashing always had a rougher, slightly death metal influenced tone, and excellent production. If it's about themes and quality, they were never joking. Social criticism was always an essential part of thrash metal, but Cripper always offered a slightly different down-to-earth perspective, that also had certain portions of truly rebellious language, on a not too insulting level. This golden middle way approach was always very typical to the scene, and this was also the reason why similar bands never gained the attention that they have been theoretically worthy of by avoiding clichés. Rigidness isn't a supporting feature in this genre, and even though the band always had potential, this frequently returning (typically German) issue served as a factor that raked out the fire.
   Anyways, "Hyëna" is still a highly enjoyable album for the fans of thrash metal.