Ryker's Life's A Gamble Clear Glow In The Dark Vinyl Edition

It was 1992 when a hardcore band was formed in the tranquil town of Kassel: The Ryker's were born. A name that, even decades later (!), is familiar to anyone who is even remotely familiar with hardcore in general and the scene in Germany and Europe in particular. There was no getting around them, especially in the 90s. Massively influenced by the sound of the Cro-Mags, Agnostic Front and Sick of it All, the Ryker's gradually gained a foothold on larger stages in clubs and at festivals.

After the 1995 album First Blood, Germany was covered in dark blue hoodies with the Brother Against Brother print. Everyone knew the band. After various singles and LPs, a real masterpiece of an album was released in 1999: "Life's A Gamble... And So Is Death". The band was technically at their peak and in top form, with ultra-brutal groove, hard metal guitars and a really strong drumming that sets the pace for hard pits. Add to that the distinctive, deep and ultra-angry voice of Kid D. - to this day rarely achieved by other shouters. "Life's A Gamble" was released on Century Media Records, the only right step after the relevant experience with a major label. The label, which was still manageable at the time compared to today, offered the band exactly the right platform for this smash album. 18 songs, including 3 brilliant cover versions, make up a whopping 49 minutes. Almost an epic by HC standards. All killers – no fillers.

Of course there was also a vinyl version in 1999. This is now a sought-after rarity and has never been re-pressed. Why not? Well, then Noisy Plastics Records and Backbite Records are taking over at this point and are finally presenting you with a vinyl repress of this milestone almost 25 years later. The record will be released on December 20th, 2024 and collectors can look forward to chic colored vinyl editions and the legendary liquid-filled vinyl from “ Vinyl Manufaktur ”. This reissue was created under license from Century Media Records and in collaboration with the band.

For us, Nico and Mo, it's a real matter of the heart. Working on a repress of such a legendary LP is simply the best job in the world. 'nuf said.