2020 was wack. It started being wack one day in January, followed by another wack day, and then by 365 more. If your name not Bezos, you can relate. As far as hardcore, the scene has seen better days but I had no problem coming up with a few rippers. The list below proves that even in a dry year, you can still find some legit gems.
Here’s my top of 2020 (spoiler: no Higher Power):
The best: Pain Of Truth - No Blame... Just Facts
It was a blessing to get this ep at the tail end of 2020 to wrap up this fucked up year feeling strong and undefeated. At least that’s how I feel listening to this heavy ass record.
Second best: Mindforce - Swingin Swords, Choppin Lords.
Mindforce never disappoints.
Best split record: Out For Justice / Sector - This Thing Of Ours
No lie, ever since I came across Out For Justice bandcamp I knew this split was gonna be in your face gutter hardcore.
Most vicious: Criminal Instinct - Skull Fucked
It’s just two tracks on digital release but both are sure to get your ass stomped.
Best groove: Three Knee Deep - Three Knee Deep
A record that should not be missed, this album delivers some of the best grooved out rap core of 2020.
Best NYHC: Big Cheese - Punishment Park
Brightside-era Killing Time meets 90' Madball by way of Backtrack (
review)
Best rap album: Freddie Gibbs and The Alchemist - Alfredo
It was alright, won only because the competition was not that great.
Best Reissue: One Second Thought - Queens Style 1995 - 1999
FWH did a great job combining everything from these Queens heavyweights into a nicely put together digipack.
Second best reissue: Sunrise - Generation Of Sleepwalkers
I never had any strong feeling about Sunrise back in the day, but this album deserved vinyl treatment.
