Gollum's second album is one of those sophomore releases shadowed by tragedy, in this case the death of drummer, lyricist, and founding member Hunter Holland some weeks after he finished recording. Unsurprisingly, the album's eventual release became a tribute to him, allowing him to literally have the last word with his spoken word performance on "Omens." Seen as it was originally intended, the band's four-years-in-the-making follow-up to its self-released debut, it's a sharp enough piece of work, perhaps most notable for the recorded debut of singer/keyboardist Shawn Corbett, who adds a bit of
Darkthrone style shrillness to the group's crisp, no-frills style. In fact, much of
The Core feels almost astringent but in an enjoyable way, thick riffs curving around Holland's brisk then swinging parts on songs like the title track. Lusher moments turn up as well, such as the attractively moody introduction to "Ominous Winds," one of a couple of songs with understated female vocals from Cassie Sipe. Other guests include
Weedeater's Dixie Collins, Hope & Suicide's Scott Angelacos and, in an unlikely turn of events, George Zervos, a college professor from most of the band's alma mater. ~ Ned Raggett