Theoretically, Lappeenranta, Finland based purveyors of death thrash, Scumripper, dropper their self-titled EP on November 30, 2015. That was, however, merely a digital release via the band’s Bandcamp page. Thankfully, Tampa, Florida based tape label, Caligari Records, stepped in to put out a limited run of a cassette version. Scumripper is a fast paced, six-track EP that instantly bring to mind bands like Nekrofilth, Repulsion, Impetigo, Autopsy and Deathhammer. So while this demo EP is not necessarily anything new it’s a super inspiring and headbanging take on some of the more aggressively punk-laden metal we have been lucky to witness as fans.

While we’ve covered Caligari releases in the past we probably haven’t given enough credit to the cassette-only label (e.g. Jupiterian and Heavydeath). It’s always beyond refreshing to see a label like Caligari existing and thriving. The tireless search for underground metal can be, well, tiresome. So leave it to Caligari to pump out cassettes in limited runs like there’s no tomorrow. When Caligari releases something you can bet your bottom dollar that it’s going to be uniquely tremendous, energizing and inspiring music. So kudos to the label.

With tracks like “Cum Killa” and “Burning of the Midnight Tramp” it’s easy to where Scumripper is headed. Their brand of demented death thrash is direct, honest and anything but gentle. The vocals are excited, very much in the style oft the young but extensively influential Deathhammer. But don’t worry, they don’t only focus on twisted fetishes, there’s plenty of drug worship on the short EP with tracks like “Run to the Pills.”

Scumripper is beyond fun. The kind of band you listen to on long summer drives through the desolate midwest. Better than coffee, Scumripper’s pacing and aggression will keep you awake long through the afternoon lull of the highway. There are bands that are merely fun and there are bands that are merely good. Luckily, Scumripper is a combination of the two. A band that is both good at what they do and able to make it fun for the listener. An experience sure to leave your fists bloodied and your nose bleeding.

– Manny-O-War

Scumripper will be available on Cassette 2.5.2016 via Caligari Records. For more information on Scumripper check out their Facebook page.