Core by 90’s alt rock band Stone Temple Pilots is definitely one of my top albums at the moment. I’ve only recently been getting into STP and checking out their full albums, past some of their more popular releases, even though I’ve been familiar with them for a long while. Released in September of 1992, Core is heavy and dark. With tons of guitar driven and bass heavy tunes, it is clearly of its time, very grunge. But it doesn’t get too carried away in its dark tone, and leaves room for at least one softer song. This album really has it all. Especially if you’re a teenager whose parents just don’t understand.
The first song on the album, “Dead & Bloated” is a delicious introduction to the next 53 minutes of listening. Solid guitar, driving drums, you want 90’s grunge? Here it is. I can’t tell if this song is actually about being dead or about feeling like you’re dead, but either way, it’s a great album opener. (seriously, what does “birthday deathbed” even mean?).
“Sex Type Thing” While the song’s title may turn some listeners off to this song, it has an undeniable groove that you can’t help but nod your head to. I’m not going to speak to the lyrics of this song, as I would like the school newspaper website to remain operational, I think they are ironic. Lead singer Scott Weiland intended to portray a character, rather than convey personal desire/feelings. Regardless of its message (intended or unintended) it’s a great song to groove to.
The majority of Core is loud and aggressive, “Creep” is an interesting divergence from this. This is the better of the two “Creep” songs in my opinion, with all my love and respect for Radiohead. This is my favorite song on the album and one of my favorite songs of all time. It is calm, quietly angry, and sad. The acoustic guitar is an interesting shift from the wall of electric guitars that met us in every other song. While the chorus does contain a heavier riff, the vibe of the song is unchanged. For an even more intimate version of the song, there is a fully acoustic version from their MTV Unplugged set. Very moving. I think this song describes someone losing themselves. Maybe in addiction, maybe in the eyes of others. Either way, it is a beautiful song.
I find myself coming back to this album often. Mostly when I’m driving or late at night. Your dad probably used to listen to this album, so go ask him about it. Get to know the boy he once was to understand the man he has become. I rate Core 8.5/10.
