The EP’s title and cover say a lot about its themes. Overall, it focuses on religious wars, specifically highlighting Israel’s actions in Palestine. The cover features the crucifixion of Jesus with "INRI" inscribed above—standing for "iesus nazarenus rex iudaeorum" (Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews). The dead Jesus and those who died because of him symbolize the harsh reality. Varukers express, in the harshest and simplest way, how the concepts of friendship, brotherhood, and kindness, often claimed by religions, are actually rooted in fascism, destruction, and danger.
This fourth EP, also considered a mini-album, was released in 1984 on Riot City Records, which had previously issued albums from Chaos UK and Chaotic Dischord. The record contains 8 tracks, none longer than 2 minutes. It’s a typical d-beat hardcore punk album, relentless and furious from start to finish.
Dirty, distorted, fast, and sharp guitars combine with nonstop pounding d-beat drums and bulldozer-like bass adding chaotic noise and rawness. However, the most destructive weapon in the band is their sole constant member: vocalist Rat. His shouting, screaming, and hateful vocals are Varukers’ greatest strength.
As expected, the influences mainly come from Motörhead and Discharge. The bass, running like a motor, adds power and chaos to the songs. The riffs are fast and simple, occasionally supported by wailing guitar effects and brief, speedy rock’n’roll solos. The guitars’ deliberately chaotic, twisted playing style makes the record feel angry and gut-wrenching rather than fun.
Drums sometimes use double bass kicks, while cymbals and trumpets are played rapidly and aggressively, as if ready to beat someone down. On top of all this, Rat’s raw, furious, and savage vocals explode. Due to Rat’s speed and anger, many words are swallowed, and the low-budget production complements the classic hardcore punk feel.
This is a high-tempo, fast anarchist, anti-religion, anti-war hardcore punk masterpiece—essential listening and a top choice for anyone chasing this kind of raw, uncompromising sound.