G.O.O.N. God’s Only Option Now LP
As the pile of modern hardcore records heightens at speeds previously unseen, the number of them that can be considered “meaningful” entries sharply decreases. There has to be some established mathematical principle that applies to this conundrum, and, whatever it is, Denver’s G.O.O.N. triumphantly defies it with their latest release. On this follow-up to their excellent 2019 debut Natural Evil, they cook up a big, decompressed, and scathing sound with unhinged vocals. For lack of a more apt comparison, it’s along the lines of beloved 2010s miscreant BLACK PANTIES singing for a darker and beefier CEMENT SHOES. With the exception of the five-minute-plus cover of the classic proto-punk PINK FAIRIES incantation “Do It,” the songs here are brief, yet potent, each hinting at potential progressions for this up-and-coming band. I wouldn’t mind witnessing a lengthy evolution of this promising style.