With their roots firmly placed in hardcore punk, the German-based quintet of Thumb got together in 1993. Originally consisting of Claus Grabke (vocals), Jan Hendrik Meyer (bass), Axel Hilgenstoehler (guitar), and Steffen Wilmking (drums), Jens Goessling (turntables) was eventually added to the lineup for his contribution of sampling techniques, rather than turning the band into a metal/hip-hop cliché. After self-releasing their first album in 1995, their follow-up full-length Exposure came out exclusively in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland in 1996. Victory Records eventually re-released the album to the States the following year. ~ Mike DaRonco