When it comes to categorising Crimson Rain’s latest release, “Germany’s Next Topmolli”, let’s not get hung up on whether it’s an album or an EP. Clocking in at just over 16 minutes, these five tracks pack more punch, creativity, and intensity than most full-length releases.
Self-recorded, mixed, and mastered entirely DIY, this release embodies the punk ethos while pushing far beyond its traditional boundaries. This is not just a collection of songs; it’s a raw, genre-defying statement.
The album opens with “Body Count”, a brutal and relentless introduction that grabs you by the throat. The riffs are sharp, the pacing unrelenting, and the lyrics are a macabre delight. Lines like “Every victim is a number, a mere figure, nothing more” expose a nihilistic yet biting commentary on desensitisation and violence. The music perfectly complements the theme with grinding guitars and a driving rhythm section that sets the tone for the chaos to come.
“Answer to No-one” shifts gears slightly, delivering a thrash-punk anthem of defiance. The chorus, “Answer to no one – it’s time to stand your ground now,” is a rallying cry for individualism. The drumming here is ferocious, propelling the track forward, while the guitars maintain a modern thrash edge that will resonate with fans of both punk and metal.
“Pennywise” is where the band’s creativity truly shines. Inspired by Stephen King’s It, the track balances eerie atmospheres with blistering riffs. The lyrics – “From the sewers it comes crawling, fangs and claws sharp and bright” – are chillingly vivid, painting a terrifying picture that the music amplifies with doom-laden passages before returning to its punk-thrash roots. This is one of the standout tracks, showcasing the band’s ability to weave storytelling into their music seamlessly.
The penultimate track, “Fairytal€”, slows the pace slightly, offering a more reflective and groove-driven experience. The lyrics are scathing, critiquing capitalism with lines like “Mammon’s the greatest of all gods”. The balance between the rhythmic guitar work and the pounding drums makes this track a highlight, demonstrating the band’s versatility and ability to tackle weighty themes with nuance.
The title track, “Germany’s Next Topmolli”, closes the album with a fiery mix of classic metal and thrash influences. While the song’s transition into its faster sections feels slightly abrupt, the overall execution is masterful. The lyrics – “Enjoy the show, don’t mind the weather; it’s Germany’s next Top Molli” – are a sharp critique of performative activism and media sensationalism. The track ends on a high-energy note, leaving the listener hungry for more.
“Germany’s Next Topmolli” is a masterclass in blending punk, thrash, and metal into a cohesive, powerful package. The DIY production doesn’t just add authenticity; it elevates the music by staying true to the band’s raw, unfiltered ethos. Every track is a tightly woven tapestry of aggression, melody, and social commentary, making this an essential listen for fans of both punk and metal.
Crimson Rain have crafted something extraordinary here. It’s more than just an album (or EP, depending on your perspective), it’s a visceral journey that demands your full attention. From the biting lyrics to the flawless blending of genres, this release is a triumph.
Rating: 9/10
Released: August 15, 2024
Label: None / Self Released
Writer: Andy Baqone
Track list:
- Body Count
- Answer to No one
- Pennywise
- Fairytal€
- Germany’s Next Topmolli
