When current SHAI HULUD frontman Mike Moynihan and two of the touring band members decided to form a hardcore outfit, it was always likely it could blow the roof off. When said outfit decided that it is time to revert hardcore to its traditionalist form as a reaction to their perceived lack of energy and anger in a number of recent bands, it is likely to be absolutely immense. Whether you choose to agree with the band’s comprehension of the current hardcore scene is a matter of opinion, but regardless this perception has led to one hell of a brutal record.
The dissatisfaction with the scene has pulled HOLLOW EARTH (now a five-piece, completed by a second guitarist and a bassist) almost in a backward direction. Sounding dated may be a negative in a number of critic’s minds, however ‘We Are Not Humanity’ succeeds in reenergizing the sheer intensity which fuelled the genre. With Moynihan taking on guitar duties, it is down to Steve Muczynksi to lead the rage – which is done in fitting style. The vocals are pushed to breaking point, often splitting from screams into enraged bellows. For a band aiming to put the anger back into music HOLLOW EARTH sound not just despondent, but alltogether pissed off.
The vocals are supported by a barrage of gloomy guitar riffs, excellently amplified by a dual guitar set-up that allows for melody under the madness. Hardcore music often runs the risk of lacking any distinction, whereas this quintet allow every moment to stand out. Particularly, ‘On the Bounty of Gods’ is almost unbearably brutal on the surface while remaining immensely technical.
If there is one criticism to level at ‘We Are Not Humanity’, it is that the ferocious style of hardcore on offer has been done before – but in a way that’s largely the point. They have demonstrated that the traditions developed throughout the late 90s are still relevant, and a space for them definitely still exists in the world. HOLLOW EARTH are a no bullshit band, and you won’t want to be messing with them anytime soon.
BEN TIPPLE