Description

Kreator – Outcast – Compact Disc

Kreator’s Outcast, released in 1997, marks an experimental phase in the German thrash metal band’s career, combining thrash with elements of groove metal, industrial influences, and a darker, introspective atmosphere. Known for their aggressive, fast-paced thrash metal sound in the 80s, Kreator took a turn with Outcast, embracing a more mid-tempo approach and exploring themes of alienation, inner turmoil, and societal oppression. The album captures a period of transition for Kreator, as they branched out from the relentless thrash metal they were known for into more melodic and atmospheric territory.

Outcast retains the intensity of thrash but incorporates slower, groove-laden riffs, layered with atmospheric guitar tones and occasional industrial elements, giving the album a darker, more somber mood. Mille Petrozza’s vocals are raw and impassioned, delivering lyrics that dive into themes of despair, existential dread, and feeling marginalized. The riffing is heavy and rhythmic rather than speed-driven, highlighting Kreator’s evolution in sound and their willingness to experiment with new musical ideas.

This thematic shift is also reflected in the song titles and lyrics, as Outcast centers on feelings of isolation and defiance. Rather than focusing solely on aggression and violence, Petrozza’s lyrics explore psychological struggles and critique societal structures, adding depth to the album’s thematic landscape.

Notable Tracks

‘Leave This World Behind’ – The album opens with this powerful track, blending groove-oriented riffs with Petrozza’s anguished vocals. The lyrics speak to themes of alienation and escapism, setting the tone for the rest of the album.

‘Phobia’ – One of the standout tracks on Outcast, “Phobia” is both catchy and intense, featuring a driving riff and a memorable chorus. The song discusses fears and anxieties, and its accessible structure and strong hook made it a fan favorite and a staple in Kreator’s live performances.

‘Black Sunrise’ – This slower, darker song incorporates atmospheric guitar work and haunting melodies, showcasing the band’s experimentation with mood and dynamics. The lyrics are introspective and hint at despair, giving the track a somber, reflective feel.

‘Outcast’ – The title track captures the album’s central themes of feeling marginalized and disconnected. The riffs are heavy and foreboding, matching the song’s dark lyrics and reinforcing the mood of defiance and rebellion.

‘Against the Rest’ – This song highlights the album’s themes of resilience, with Petrozza’s lyrics expressing strength in the face of opposition. Musically, it combines groove with thrash elements, creating a balance of intensity and rhythm.

‘Whatever It May Take’ – This track combines a relentless groove with aggressive vocals and dark melodies, emphasizing themes of perseverance and survival. The lyrics encourage facing adversity, and the music reflects this determination with its forceful, driving beat.

Produced by Vincent Wojno, Outcast has a clean, polished production that emphasizes the album’s darker tone and mid-tempo groove. The guitars are dense and layered, creating a heavy, oppressive sound that reflects the introspective themes of the lyrics. Wojno’s production also brings out Petrozza’s vocals, which sound raw and vulnerable, adding emotional weight to the album’s introspective focus. The cleaner production allows the slower riffs and melodic sections to resonate, giving Outcast a fuller, more textured sound than previous Kreator albums.

Upon its release, Outcast received a mixed response, as fans accustomed to Kreator’s fast-paced thrash were divided over the slower, groove-oriented direction. However, over time, the album has come to be appreciated for its experimental qualities and its role in Kreator’s evolution. Tracks like “Phobia” became popular and helped the band reach a wider audience, even as they explored new styles.

Outcast is often viewed as a bridge between Kreator’s classic thrash sound and the more melodic, sophisticated approach they would adopt in later albums like Violent Revolution. This album marks a pivotal moment in the band’s journey, as they ventured into new territory and expanded their thematic and musical range. For fans of Kreator’s diverse discography, Outcast is a unique and essential listen, capturing the band’s willingness to adapt and push boundaries while still delivering heavy, impactful music.

Track Listing
1. Leave This World Behind
2. Phobia
3. Forever
4. Black Sunrise
5. Nonconformist
6. Enemy Unseen
7. Outcast
8. Stronger Than Before
9. Ruin Of Life
10. Whatever It May Take
11. Alive Again
12. Against The Rest
13. A Better Tomorrow