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While Killer Escort Service can't really be called "ancient" history, this release marks the start for the modern Thrashers from Germany, Cripper. Killer Escort Service gave me the chance to see how far Cripper has progressed musically. Although Thrash is their bread and butter, this release, more so than their full-length albums, finds the band sounding a bit melodic and groovy. Even the vocal section, comprised of the rough and angry lady, Britta Gortz, and guitarist Christian Brohenhorst, sounds very different than today.

There are some great tracks on this EP, like "Wake Up Dead," "Cut Me Into Pieces, Till I Fit Your Point of View" and "Dreams Your Master." The songs feature constructive riffs and coarse grooves with a few melodies in place of solos. Today, Cripper sounds harsher, harder, louder and faster than they do on Killer Escort Service, but it remains part of their legacy. Cripper are a band that pushes the envelope of what is modern Thrash. I expect their new album will feature a heavy dose of fists.