German hardcore legends Ryker´s are back with a new album, I listened and reviewed the record for our zine. The record will be out with BDHW Records.

There were couple of last years that were turbulent for these hardcore veterans from Kassel. Line-up change, taking some ugly words spoken from the former fans who were indeed never fans at all, but that only made the band stronger. Hence, this new record contains 15 songs of awesome hardcore punk with metalic influences. Compared to their classic material from the 90-ies this new stuff is a bit more catchy and melodic, but also remaining hardcore with a sharp edge.

There are couple of songs that are bound to become instant classics in my opinion like awesome Let´s Ruin The Scene with great melodic hooks, lyrics and awesome trumpet in the end of the song. Also, Cast In Stone is bound to become a hit in the band´s live setlist for sure. Dead End Street is a hardcore anthem featuring guest performance by none other than Roger Miret. One more guest performance that is awesome is Matt Henderson delivering wicked guitar solo on Collateral Damage. What surprised me the most on this record is the new version of and old hit Cold Lost Sick done in piano/atmospheric way combined with great vocals and it still gives me goosebumps when I listen to this new version. The album is varied, there are no fillers on this album, so that makes it one awesome and strong record.

9/10

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