Not Fragile | Who Dares Wins | Relics From The Crypt (Reissue)

Release Date: 19 December 2025
Format: 12” Vinyl
Genre: Speed Metal
Country: Germany

Not Fragile formed in Hamburg in 1980 and stayed active until 1990. During that time they released demos, an EP, and a mini album, while a full debut stayed unreleased for years. Their story is tied to bad timing and label problems, not lack of talent. A later reunion kept the name alive, though the early era gained cult status long after the band had stepped away.

“Who Dares Wins” stands as a clear document of late 80s German speed and power metal. The music sits between speed-driven aggression and early melodic power metal, with riffs that push forward and vocals that stay rough and urgent. The songwriting favors momentum and bite, staying focused on strong metal traditions of its time without drifting into excess.

The production is stronger than expected for its background and era. Guitars come across solid and energetic, drums cut through with clarity, and the overall sound stays grounded and physical. There is a clear link to the European scene of the period, with echoes of classic German speed metal mixed with a touch of US-style power metal attitude.

As a reissue, this release finally gives “Who Dares Wins” the presentation it deserved. It captures a band at a hungry point, writing sharp and committed metal during a crowded and competitive era. For listeners interested in authentic 80s heavy metal history, this mini album earns its place without exaggeration or myth-making.

Score: 7.5