STEEL CITY HARDCORE || A LESSON IN HOW TO REVIVE A DYING SCENE
Photo Cred 📸: @scumcollective
The pandemic was an interesting time for us hardcore kids.
Brand new bands spawned from the sheer boredom that rippled through us during lockdown, while some, such as myself tried their hand at learning a new instrument, making beats or electronic music production. As our friends and family occupied their time with Tiger King and Animal Crossing, we were all too thrilled to finally be able to finish writing that song that they couldn’t get quite right or finally take up learning that obscure instrument. However, while we were spoiled with free time, there was one thing that weighed heavy on the heart of everyone in the scene — the lack of the live experience. The live show is the lifeblood of every musician, full stop.
Arguably, a musician who doesn’t perform might be considered a mere hobbyist. That important connection between fan and performer, the emotion, the energy — it disappeared faster than you could say “six feet apart”. As we know, however, there was a light at the end of the tunnel. Restaurants were reopening, offices were reopening, but most importantly, music venues were reopening. Things were once again bubbling in the hardcore scene.
Whispers of small-scale DIY shows were making the rounds. It wasn’t going to take long until promoters started booking shows again, at actual venues nonetheless. And it didn’t. Rising out of the ashes of the pandemic, you might have heard of Steel City Hardcore, a promotion company based out of Hamilton, Ontario.
Its shows are violent. Fists and feet flying in every direction, people diving off the stage, people diving off of each other — the days of standing there with your arms crossed are long, long gone (thank fucking god). People even mosh for the opening bands (Shock! Horror! Panic), a testament to the worthiness of up and coming bands who rep our beloved Steeltown. If you attend a show you’ll notice a pattern.
You’ll see the same faces, smiling, talking and forming bonds (and then later virtually murdering them in the pit minutes later - with love, of course). Steel City Hardcore shows are a tight-knit, welcoming space for anyone who might be remotely interested in punk and hardcore music. It’s more than just a ten dollar cover charge to watch live music. The shows are a central hub for lovers of aggressive music, all the while local artists, food vendors and craftspeople occupy the merchandise booths alongside the bands.
Spearheaded by Rob Beaulieu and Jordon McGovern, the two have taken their brand to astonishing heights, inviting bands and attendees from outside Canada and beyond to experience the thrill of hardcore, Steel City style.
“ROB AND I STARTED CHATTING OVER THE PANDEMIC ABOUT HOW MUCH WE MISS SHOWS. WE WERE SEEING CLIPS OF DIY SHOWS HAPPENING IN THE USA, DESPITE LOCKDOWNS BEING IN PLACE AND IT WAS EVEN MORE FUEL TO THE FIRE.”
- JORDON @jordonxjohn
Rob shares the same sentiments..
“STEEL CITY HARDCORE STARTED BECAUSE WE WANTED TO THROW THE KINDS OF SHOWS WITH THE KIND OF BANDS WE WANTED TO SEE, BUT WE ALSO WANTED TO BRING BACK A SENSE OF COMMUNITY IN OUR LOCAL SCENE. WE WATED ANYONE AND EVERYONE INVOLVED IN HELPING BOOK SHOWS, PLAY SHOWS, CREATE CONTENT, COME TO SHOWS, ANYTHING TO HELP SHOWCASE OUR SCENE AND WHAT WE’RE ABOUT HERE. TORONTO HAS ALWAYS BEEN THE CENTRAL HUB FOR HARDCORE AND PUNK MUSIC BUT WE WANTED TO SHOWCASE THAT HARDCORE EXISTS IN HAMILTON. WE WANTED TO SHOW BANDS THAT WE’RE A COMMUNITY WORTH PLAYING IN.”
- ROB @dadxball
Steel City Hardcore’s virtuous origin story seems to have paid off. Rob and Jordon have successfully harnessed the frustrations from the pandemic and funneled them into a positive space where musicians, fans and artists can express themselves. It’s worth noting that prior to the pandemic, the Ontario hardcore scene was severely lacking in attendance. These are problems of the past however, as the emergence of Steel City Hardcore has increased attendance tenfold, oftentimes selling out shows completely.
It’s not like Rob and Jordon are booking massive, world-touring bands — most of the time, the bands booked are local within the GTA. Attendees merely want a place to, as Rob said, get involved. Hardcore and punk has always been a place for community, its fans and bands continuing to support the scene well after their teens and early 20s, Rob and Jordon being no exception. But everyone has an origin story.
“My hardcore origin story started in Alberta back in the late 90s the first time I heard the band Hatebreed,” Rob states. “I knew I needed more of that so I went searching, and soon I found bands like Agnostic Front, Madball and Biohazard. Something struck me about how real this music was. The lyrics were relatable.
There were songs about unity, community, family, having each other's backs and looking out for one another. Values that STILL hold true many years later. Values I strive to teach my own kids as they grow up. Fast forward to today: I play in two hardcore bands called Rust and Die Alone.
Through the community I’ve found these opportunities and have been able to apply and channel them into Steel City Hardcore as well”. Jordon’s ties to the scene are much more local, a likely reason why SCHC is so focused on fostering a local community: “I always leaned toward heavy music growing up, but it was my friend Kenedi (who now fronts Hamilton hardcore band Fight On Sight) who showed me a few local bands. They were playing in the area and we went to check them out. The rest is history.”
While the emergence of live sets on YouTube allows one to witness the chaos of a show from the comfort of their home, the overall experience is lost in the mix. The kinetic energy of a hardcore show is something that must be felt, not seen. Rob and Jordon know this, and have fortunately revived what was a dying scene into one that is truly worth writing about. If anyone is thinking about participating in their local scene, the time is undoubtedly ripe, with some even dubbing this era of Ontario hardcore the “golden age”.
The relatability of hardcore always been a major factor in why its fans stick around. A working class city like Hamilton was begging for a revival of the local punk and hardcore music scene. Rob and Jordon’s dedication to their community is a testament of what one can accomplish when the goal isn’t what’s in the cashbox at the end of the night, instead opting for creating an inclusive space while supporting local and touring bands, no matter the cost.
Checkout Steel City Hardcore here: @steelcityhardcore
Writer : @dyingyeetus
Editor : @just_reidz
10/13/23
BFD || HARDCORE FOR THE MEAT AND POTATOES
Photo Cred 📸: @lindseyjam
BFD is a brand new ONHC band full of familiar faces. Members of this band are also in some active and inactive bands such as Big School, Windoc, Wild Side, Sabotage & Easy Way Out.
BFD take me back to a simpler time when hardcore was full of fun, bounce and groove based riffs, gang vocals and a sea of camo shorts with pile up photos on band shirts for as far as the eye could see. This demo showcases all those vibes and more with shades of early No Warning, Mental, and other early 2000s era core vibes that many would now consider a nostalgic sound. This demo’s clocking in at only seven minutes and 14 seconds long but she hits like a fuckin freight train and has a lot to say, the perfect ingredients for a very combustible demo.
BFD hits off the opening track “NEVER” by reminding us not to embellish our past and to live for tomorrow, the lyrical frustrations begin to swell on “ONE SIDED”. His vexation rapidly accelerates on “P.O.S” discussing the police state, then they kick into my favourite track titled “ANOTHER CASUALTY” venting the frustrations on the evils of capitalism.
“We’re the ones paying the cost, they got the money, they got the power, still they take what is ours. We lose our lives to get ahead”
Closing out the lively demo is “CONTEST” with some stompy grooves to solidify that this band hits as hard instrumentally as they do lyrically.
So what exactly is the recipe influencing the rage and the riffs of BFD? We had the privilege of asking their vocalist for a few questions about his new band..
WHERE DOES YOUR NAME COME FROM?
We were trying to come up with a name and the letters BFD sounded cool. There's a bunch of "acronym" bands that we love across all genres so we went with it. I promise we're not keeping it a secret, we just are still deciding what it should stand for. I am personally voting for Brothers For Decades because our guitar and bass player are brothers and I treat my friends like brothers anyway.
FOR PEOPLE THAT HAVEN’T HEARD OF YOU, HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR BAND?
Straight up hardcore punk. Meat and potatoes type stuff.
WHAT ARE YOUR MAJOR INFLUENCES?
If Maiden and Priest were the gods that Sum 41 praised - I suppose BFD's would be Killing Time and Breakdown. Truthfully though we try to draw influence from a bunch of stuff. You'd be surprised what great ideas you can get from throwing on a Lady Gaga record from time to time.
WHO MIXED & MASTERED THIS RECENT RELEASE?
The demo was recorded and mixed by our friend Mitch Courtois in Welland and Will Killingsworth at Dead Air Studios handled the mastering.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL BANDS YOU’D LIKE TO PLAY WITH OR SHOUTOUT?
I'd say we will play with just about anyone and just about anywhere if schedules work out and all that. I'm happy to see our friends in Reality Denied having their moment right now. There's some younger locals in a band called SHINGEN that deserve some love for the effort they put into booking shows in Niagara too. Can't forget our friends in Wild Side and Best Wishes either.
WHAT’S YOUR GO TO MOSH TRACK RIGHT NOW?
I'm probably the wrong person to ask because I haven't found myself in a mosh pit in some time. It's getting pretty violent out there (which I think is cool so don't think I'm discouraging you.)
Step one: I'll start doing stretches and hit the gym
Step two: Go see Floorpunch next time they play.
Maybe that means my answer is THE Answer.
ASSUMING YOU’RE NOT A PACIFIST, IF YOU COULD PUNCH ANYONE IN THE FACE AS HARD AS YOU CAN WITH NO REPERCUSSIONS, WHO WOULD IT BE AND WHY?
I'm not a pacifist but I can't recall ever being in a fight. Probably just some brothers fighting downstairs type BS. Any name that is coming to mind deserves more than just a punch from me and unfortunately it probably wouldn't solve anything either.
WHAT’S COMING UP FOR THE BAND THIS YEAR AND WHAT DO YOU STRIVE TO ACCOMPLISH WITH THIS BAND?
I hope we get a chance to play some more shows. This is a communal thing and ultimately if what we create can resonate with people that's all we can ask for. I hope folks enjoy it as much as we do and maybe we'll get the chance to make more songs and play outside Ontario.
Thanks for the interest in the demo.
“I’D SAY WE’RE LUCKY RIGHT NOW IN ONTARIO THAT THERE’S A BUNCH OF AREAS WITH DIVERSE HARDCORE SCENES THAT’RE THRIVING. IT’S COOL THAT YOU CAN CATCH A SHOW IN BRAMPTON, HAMILTON, NIAGARA, TORONTO ETC. AND HAVE A BUNCH OF PEOPLE SHOW UP AND NOT JUST HAVE EVERYTHING CONSOLIDATED IN ONE AREA. EVERYONE GETS A TASTE OF HARDCORE REALITY IF THEY WANT IT.”
- WILL, @bfdhardcore
BFD just rocked their first show in St. Kitts with Wild Side, Exhibition & Gavel and we cannot wait to hear and see more of them. As Will said, BFD may just be “meat and potatoes” hardcore, but I grew up on that dish, it’s a staple, a foundation of this genres sound and origins. A meal that always feels like home to me when I hear it.
Can’t wait to hear what they cook up next.
Checkout their Bandcamp here: BFD
Writer : @just_reidz
Editor : @letsgetpivotal
07/28/23
FALSTAFF || HARDCORE FOR THE NOSTALGIC
Photo Cred 📸: @carlyboomer
Formed in 2020 during the lockdowns in Ontario, Falstaff, hail from the GTA and show that good things can come out of not so favourable situations. Pulling influences from metalcore and deathcore, this hardcore band provides a modern spin to the music we were all familiar and fascinated with growing up in the scene. This band proves on and off stage that talent does not directly correlate with being serious, they know how to have fun and whether it’s your first show or hundredth, you can’t help but be entranced by the presence and clear enjoyment this group has for the scene, the stage and the music itself.
We are so proud to see this band grow and develop over the last few years and we are so excited to see what they have in store for us in the years to come.
We had the opportunity to ask bassist Neil Cortez some questions…
“EVERYONE IN THE SCENE IS SUPER APPROACHABLE AND COOL TO TALK TO! EVERYONE SUPPORTS EVERYONE AND IT’S COOL TO SEE. THE MAJORITY OF THE FRIENDS I’VE MADE IS FROM ME APPROACHING THEM AND SAYING STUFF LIKE “YO I REALLY LIKE YOUR BAND” OR “HEY I’VE SEEN YOU AT A COUPLE SHOWS, WHAT’S UP I’M NEIL”. I’VE NEVER BEEN GIVEN THE COLD SHOULDER (HAHA, SHOUT-OUT COLD SHOULDER) AND THAT SPEAKS VOLUMES ABOUT THE SCENE. FAMILY VIBES!”
- NEIL, @fallstaffcore
WHERE DOES YOUR NAME FALSTAFF COME FROM?
Falstaff is named after the street near Jane and Wilson. Andres has a homie who lives in the area and we thought the name sounded cool. Starts with an F, ends with an F. It’s just a word that’s nice to look at.
FOR PEOPLE THAT HAVEN’T HEARD OF YOU, HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR BAND?
Violent meme music. Metalcore with some deathcore / hardcore influences mixed with nu metal bounce riffs & dumb meme samples because they’re funny.
WHAT ARE YOUR MAJOR INFLUENCES?
Knocked Loose, The Acacia Strain, Slipknot, Jesus Piece, Varials.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL BANDS YOU’D LIKE TO PLAY WITH OR SHOUTOUT?
Shout out to the homies in Panic Response, Wishender, Camaro, and Big Fist! Love yall!
WHAT’S COMING UP FOR THE BAND THIS YEAR?
This year we’re looking to play more shows! Also currently working on another EP so we’ll see when that gets finished!
Keep an eye out for Falstaff this summer as they have a few shows lined up!
Checkout their Bandcamp here: Falstaff
Writer : @bertnay
Editor : @just_reidz
05/26/23
REALITY DENIED || …COMES WITH A PRICE
Photo Cred 📸: @scumcollective
It’s not often that you see a Canadian band (or any band, for that matter) so effortlessly combine oldschool NYHC and Pennsylvania-style beatdown while keeping it original and unique. Niagara’s Reality Denied does exactly this in their latest release ...COMES WITH A PRICE. Clocking in at a little over thirteen minutes, ...COMES WITH A PRICE is, frankly, five hard-ass songs tailor-made for the mosh pit.
Forgoing any feedback, intros or samples, the record begins with “Ain’t Optin’.” The opening drums immediately show you what RD is about — pissed off, hardcore for the moshers. This song sets the tone for the rest of the record, packing in as much heaviness as one can on an EP. The ad-libs from vocalist Connor Gibbs are a welcome addition on this song. It can be tough to execute them without sounding corny (see: every MySpace era deathcore band circa 2008), but he absolutely pulls it off.
The next track, “Nothin’ But Hate” begins with riffs that wouldn’t be out of place on an 80s thrash record, then slows down to those all-too-familiar RD chugs you might remember from the last release, carrying itself that way for the rest of the track. “Dollars 2 the Name” is a love letter to bands like Biohazard with its breakbeats and groove riffs, featuring a short ad-lib by Kyle Patterson from Gavel. The last two songs, “RD’d 2 Death” and “Ten Minutes” are much of the same, but that isn’t a bad thing; the variation in tempo changes and creative guitar licks are enough to make ...COMES WITH A PRICE stand out, but not enough to disrupt the flow on the dance floor.
Don’t get it twisted, this record is still full of caveman chug-a-lugs, but you’ll notice more lead guitar work in the mix, especially in the penultimate track. Again, RD isn’t afraid to wear their influences on their sleeves. You might notice tremolo picking throughout the record, emulating that iconic Pennsylvania beatdown sound in the vein of No Retreat and Built Upon Frustration. Produced at Schoolhouse Studios by their very own guitarist, Reality Denied were not fucking around with the sound of …COMES WITH A PRICE.
The drums and guitars sound BIG, as should be expected with an EP of this caliber, but I think the snare needs a special shoutout here. It’s the musical equivalent of a pool ball in a sock, a reverb-heavy crack akin to street-style hardcore bands of the 90s like NJ Bloodline. We spoke to Connor about the making of the EP:
“RECORDING WITH ANDY WAS A BLESSING. WE’RE INSANELY LUCKY TO HAVE OUR GUITAR PLAYER ALSO BE OUR ENGINEER HAHA. GUY KNEW EXACTLY WHAT WE WERE GOING FOR AND ABSOLUTELY KILLED THIS WHOLE RELEASE. REAL PROUD OF THE WORK EVERYBODY DID ON THIS. I APPRECIATE ALL THE LOVE WE’VE GOTTEN OVER THE PAST YEAR OR SO - THIS EP IS JUST THE BEGINNING.
EVERYTHING WE’VE PUT OUT BEFORE THIS WAS JUST A PRECURSOR TO THE THINGS WE’RE WORKING ON NOW. EXPECT LOTS MORE RD STUFF IN THE COMING MONTHS”
- CONNOR, @realitydenied
I hate to use clichéd phrases, but in the case of ...COMES WITH A PRICE, less is more. This is not a hardcore dissertation written by art school kids. This is stripped-down, working class, heavy hardcore that is best experienced live. Even if you can’t experience it live, ...COMES WITH A PRICE is guaranteed increase your heart rate, however you are listening. Welcome to reality.
Checkout their Bandcamp here: Reality Denied
Writer : @dyingyeetus
Editor : @just_reidz
05/25/23
TRAUMA MODEL || HARDCORE FOR THE HARDER
Photo Cred 📸: @davidpraph
Based out of Kingston, Ontario and formed in 2018, Trauma Model is a band that has the ability to appeal to any listener. With clear influences from multiple genres this trio is tasteful to any pallet. They have the ability to convey their anger but in a way that makes sense and connects with the listener, a freight train of passion. With heavy and low riffs and powerful lyrics they bring their dedication to life with every single they put out and it doesn’t stop there.
Their artistry in their performance from live shows to their music videos is extremely compelling, you can tell they put their heart into every aspect of their music. Working along with some of Ontario’s most noted videographers and photographers Dylan Gould and David Praph, this trio is surrounded by success and it will only propel them further in their future. We are very proud to call them one of Ontario’s own.
We had the pleasure of talking with vocalist Derek McInroy and ask him some questions.
WHERE DOES YOUR NAME TRAUMA MODEL COME FROM?
We were brainstorming names after a few practices in 2018 and Mitch had thought of the name already. We all liked it and here we are.
Additionally, Go Devil's Go Phillies
FOR PEOPLE THAT HAVEN’T HEARD OF YOU BEFORE, HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR BAND?
I've always found it really hard to pin point a specific genre, so I usually just tell people we play heavy music - and then agree with the first band they ask me if we sound like.
WHAT ARE YOUR MAJOR INFLUENCES?
I know for me personally when this band started, I wanted to make music similar to the likes of World of Pain, Hometown Hate, Rukus, Nasty, etc - but generally speaking as a band we all like a variety of different artists. It can range from Underoath to country music to a ton of stuff. I guess we just take influence from everything.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL BANDS YOU’D LIKE TO PLAY WITH OR SHOUTOUT?
Constrain, Sinner, Kawthra, Thousand Knives, Scarfold, Northwalk, Plead, RD, DA and Rust are the first ones that come to my mind - please listen to & support them!
I haven't seen Deadbolt or Jenafur play yet, but I'm looking forward to it.
Also a shoutout to David Praph, Samantha Dotson & Nick Ginn for being three really good people.
AFTER BEING A PART OF THE HARDCORE COMMUNITY FOR SOMETIME NOW, WHAT IS THE BEST PART ABOUT IT?
I have met a majority of my best friends through not just the hardcore scene, but the heavy music scene in general.
Also just the feeling of seeing a new band for the first time still makes me happy. It's just one of those feelings.
Friends family forever 666.
WHAT’S COMING UP FOR THE BAND THIS YEAR?
Hopefully playing some gigs this summer & hanging out with our friends! We have some things in the works for the fall but we can't go quite into detail yet. Hopefully touring as much as possible & probably getting around to making a new record at some point.
“THEY ARE SOME OF THE MOST FUN PEOPLE THAT I’M PROUD TO WORK WITH. INCREDIBLE MUSICIANS AND FRIENDS, THEY GO ABOVE AND BEYOND TO HELP ME OUT AND THERE’S NOT MANY OTHER PEOPLE I’D RATHER SHOOT GUNS OFF AND CREATE ART WITH”
- DYLAN GOULD , @staygoulden
Check out their newest music video shot and edited by Dylan Gould below:
BURNT KNIVES || HARDCORE FOR THE HOPEFUL
Photo Cred 📸: @mgmphotoco
Formed from the ashes of a band called Giving Up, in 2017 Burnt Knives was formed. Their individual and heavier sound leads us on a different path than what is usually expected from Ontario Hardcore. The harsh vocals and guitar solos further strengthen the relationship between both Metal and Hardcore genres. This band is more than just a typical Hardcore band but a perfect portrayal of the grim reality of life and imminent despair. Burnt Knives is truly negative Hardcore at its finest.
We had the chance to speak to vocalist Jesse Robinson and ask him some questions..
WHERE DOES YOUR NAME “BURNT KNIVES” COME FROM?
Some Pop Punk band had already used Hot Knives. So why not make it worse?
FOR PEOPLE THAT HAVEN’T HEARD OF YOU BEFORE, HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR BAND?
Blackened, sludgey Hardcore that you can nod your head to, while still keeping a serious face and arms crossed.
WHAT ARE YOUR MAJOR INFLUENCES?
Integrity, The Infamous Gehenna, Ringworm, Sheer Terror, Eyehategod, Noothgrush.
AS A BAND WHO’S HAS BEEN IN THE HARDCORE SCENE FOR MANY YEARS HOW HAS IT CHANGED?
I don't like the word change, it ebbs and flows, the Hardcore community generally has a very revolving door with an extremely short shelf life, the ones that do stick around you get to know really well. So hold on tight.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE THING ABOUT THE HARDCORE COMMUNITY?
Just watching people passionately lose their fucking minds, be it performing or being an active participant in another manner, such as zines or becoming a promoter. Learning life skills that can be applied to other facets of life.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL BANDS YOU’D LOVE TO PLAY WITH OR SHOUTOUT?
Major love to Korrosive, Phantom Lung, Hostage 905, and whatever three projects CC is currently involved in.
WHAT’S COMING UP FOR YOUR BAND THIS YEAR?
We have an ambitious double EP coming this year. Part one will be called Life Is Beautiful. Part two will be titled Living Isn't. We want to continue to play shows and have fun with it.
Catch them playing tonight at the Rockpile for Road to Lock Down Fest, and make sure you grab a ticket for their September show where they’re opening up for the Exploited.
Checkout their Bandcamp here: Burnt Knives
Writer : @bertnay
Editor : @just_reidz
04/07/23
BAR DOWN || HARDCORE FOR THE CROSS CHECKERS
Photo Cred 📸: @scum.collective
Bar Down, a band named after a hockey term who has put a new meaning to full contact sports. From encouraging pit movement to joining the pit themselves, you may want to wear a helmet being in their crowd. Whether it be on the field, the ice or the pit, it’s clear this band works as a well oiled team and any show of theirs is set to be a barn burner.
After being off for a few seasons, Chem Valley’s Bar Down has made a healthy return and we could not be more ready for their comeback. After their new EP was released earlier this year they reach the red zone and are now in prime scoring position with their insane riffs and violent, distinctive sound. Bar Down is back and stronger than ever. We expected an audible but it’s clear that they have picked up exactly, if not better from where they left off and we could not be happier.
We got to speak to their vocalist Thomas and ask him some questions about the band.
“FAVOURITE PART FOR ME IS HANGING WITH MY BAND ON ROAD TRIPS. WE ALWAYS HAVE SOME GREAT LAUGHS WHILE WE’RE DRIVING TO A SHOW OR STAYING OVERNIGHT SOMEWHERE. IT’S JUST A GREAT STRESS RELIEF FROM THE EVERYDAY GRIND”
- THOMAS, @bardownhc
WHERE DOES THE NAME “BAR DOWN” COME FROM?
I pitched it as a joke at first because I play Hockey, but it kinda stuck and the boys loved it. For context, it's when you put the puck in the top shelf, where Momma hides the cookies.
WHEN WAS YOUR BAND FORMED?
Bar Down was formed in the Fall of 2016. I always wanted to play in a band, so I asked my brother Micah and the drummer of his old band Tyson if they would be down to start something up. We recruited a life long friend Alan who had also never played in a band before on bass. Later on, right after the release of Demo '17, we got The Kid (Aiden) to rip up some Guitar as well, who had played in bands in the past with Micah.
FOR PEOPLE THAT HAVEN’T HEARD OF YOU BEFORE, HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR BAND?
Weightlifting, Football, dumb riffs. We don't really take it too serious haha.
WHAT ARE YOUR MAJOR INFLUENCES?
I'll just throw what everyone's influences are on here, but collectively we listen to a lot of Midwest and North East HC bands. And Pantera, can't forget them.
Thomas: Trapped Under Ice and King Nine
Alan: Slipknot, Rotting Out, and Converge (Or whatever Micah and Aiden write)
Tyson: Vein, Knocked Loose, Meshuggah and Rush
Aiden: Pantera, Pantera, Pantera.
Micah: Purgatory, Soul Search, Foundation, and Harm's Way
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL BANDS THAT YOU’D LOVE TO PLAY WITH OR SHOUTOUT?
Shoutout no free shoutout our new younger brother's in Fistful of Hate. CVHC till I die. Shoutout no free shoutout to our DHC brothers in Ante Up, Enemy of God, Big Deal. ONHC family Rust, Reality Denied, Cold Shoulder, Just Right.
New band we would love to play with is Spirit of Vengeance. XXL+ merch only at the show.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE SHOW YOU’VE PLAYED SO FAR?
Year of the Knife in Brampton, ON. Motor City Fest in Detroit, MI. Jesus Piece and Sanction in London, ON. And any of the rare times we've played in the chem valley, the hometown always puts on.
WHAT’S COMING UP FOR THE BAND THIS YEAR?
We have a couple runs in the works but nothing set in stone as of yet. We are planning to release a new somethin' somethin' in the spring or summer.
Just coming off a violent set from last weekends SCHC show, you can catch them in the penalty box during their next away game April 29th in Detroit with Reality Check, Suffer No Fools, Poison Tongues and Loose Cannon.
Checkout their Bandcamp here: Bar Down
Writer : @bertnay
Editor : @just_reidz
03/31/23
DIE ALONE || HARDCORE FOR THE SOLDIERS
Photo Cred 📸: @davidpraph
Formed in 2018, Die Alone has made a big impact on the Ontario Hardcore scene showcasing their talent and insurmountable energy. Their ability to make a connection with the crowd and make them move is unparalleled, from mosh calls to insane riffs this band has everything that makes us proud to call them one of our own. We had the opportunity to ask frontman Cian some questions…
“I THINK IT’S WILD HOW CONNECTED IT IS. YOU CAN GO TO A SHOW IN ANOTHER COUNTRY ALONE AND MAKE FRIENDS BASED ON YOUR BAND SHIRT. THERE’S A SENSE OF UNSPOKEN UNITY IN THE HARDCORE SCENE THAT JUST ISN’T THERE IN METAL OR OTHER GENRES. OF COURSE, YOU GET YOUR HIGH SCHOOL LEVEL DRAMA LIKE ANY OTHER SCENE, BUT IF YOU IGNORE IT AND MOVE ON, YOU GET SOMETHING REALLY SPECIAL”
- CIAN, @diealonehc
WHERE DID THE NAME “DIE ALONE” COME FROM?
I (Cian) thought of the name in 2016 when trying to come up with a name for one of my old bands. We ended up going with something else but I always kept the name in the back of my mind. Then when Conor, Bobby and I started jamming we figured we’d need a name for the project and Die Alone was born. I wish I could say there’s some meaning behind it, but I just thought it sounded cool.
FOR PEOPLE THAT HAVEN’T HEARD OF YOU BEFORE, HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR BAND?
It’s just straight forward, pissed off Metallic Hardcore. We’re not trying to do anything new, just play music that we love and hopefully get a crowd moving.
WHAT ARE YOUR MAJOR INFLUENCES?
Our influences are generally all over the map. We love Hardcore in all its forms. But if we had to pinpoint it, we tend to write in the vein of Madball, Billy Club Sandwich, Cold As Life and Next Step Up. Bouncy, heavy sort of stuff.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL BANDS THAT YOU’D LOVE TO PLAY WITH OR SHOUTOUT?
So many to list.. Temper Tantrum, Rust, Reality Denied, Cohezion, Friction, basically all bands in the Ontario scene, we’re definitely missing a bunch. If there’s one Ontario band on our bucket list, there is only one possible answer: Serial Joe.
AS SOMEONE WHO HAS BEEN IN THE HARDCORE SCENE FOR MANY YEARS HOW HAS IT CHANGED?
Right now it’s better than ever. Before the pandemic it seemed disjointed and shows didn’t have the same draw as they do now. I’ve met tons of new faces since shows came back after lockdown, it’s just crazy how everyone shows up and goes as hard as they can.
WHAT’S COMING UP FOR THE BAND THIS YEAR?
We’re releasing a new EP, we are actually in the process of recording it right now. It’s looking to come out in probably May.
Enlist today to join the Die Alone army and catch them March 25 at the sold out Steel City Hardcore show in Hamilton.
Checkout their Bandcamp here: Die Alone
Writer : @bertnay
Editor : @just_reidz
03/24/23
CAMARO || HARDCORE FOR THE FAST
Photo Cred 📸: @snaps_by_mark
Coming out of the gates with a need for speed, Camaro from Toronto, Ontario has been fueling the Hardcore scene since spring of 2022, 0 to 60 in less than a year with no brakes. They have a sound that gets the crowd out of neutral, you’ll definitely want to join their pit crew. This past year for them has been the perfect lap and we don’t want any spoilers but we have a feeling their foot is on the gas and we predict big things on their next run of the track.
Now we should quit stalling and get to the questions we got to ask Julio and Luke…
“THE BEST PART IS WORKING HARD ON SOMETHING YOU LOVE AND THEN GETTING REWARDED FROM IT. WITHOUT EXPECTING IT OF COURSE. GROWING, LEARNING FROM PAST MISTAKES AND JUST KEEPING YOUR FOOT OFF THE BRAKES.”
- JULIO, @camarohc
WHERE DOES THE NAME “CAMARO” COME FROM?
Camaro means we go 0-60mph in about 4 seconds .
WHAT PART OF ONTARIO IS CAMARO FROM?
Toronto, GTA, but I think we’re more of a QEW, DVP, 401, 427, 403 band.
FOR PEOPLE WHO HAVEN’T HEARD OF YOU BEFORE HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR BAND?
We’re fast and we’re fun!!!
WHAT ARE YOUR MAJOR INFLUENCES?
A lot of the riffs I write are hugely influenced by a Swedish HC band called Sidestep. Other than that a mix of thrash bands like Suicidal Tendencies.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL BANDS YOU’D LOVE TO PLAY WITH OR SHOUTOUT?
Koroshi, Friction, Raze.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE SHOW YOU’VE PLAYED SO FAR?
Haven’t had many yet but I love skateramp venues. Shoutout Killroom.
WHAT’S COMING UP FOR THE BAND THIS YEAR?
I think we’re aiming to drop an EP by the end of the summer? We’re recording shit now and doing it all ourselves right now so it’s a bit of a slower process but that’s DIY babyyyy!
Come see Camaro and join their pit crew in Toronto on May 6th at Bar Orwell. It’s an all ages, benefit show for Farmhouse Garden Animal Home so race over to the gig and mosh for a good cause.
Checkout their Bandcamp here: Camaro
Writer : @bertnay
Editor : @just_reidz
03/10/23
ONHC || CELEBRATING THE WOMEN OF ONTARIO HARDCORE
Women have always been a part of the Hardcore community. Lately we have made an even bigger statement and impact, if you look, we are everywhere, forming bands, playing instruments and photographing events. We’ve come a long way from the “no clit in the pit” era of Hardcore. For International Women’s Day we wanted to highlight a few women in our community who have made an impact on all of us. We had the privilege of interviewing some women who are standouts in our community.
KENEDI || FIGHT ON SIGHT
Photo Cred 📸: @scumcollective
“I’VE HEARD A FEW TIMES THAT SOMETIMES I CAN COME OFF AS A BIT STANDOFFISH AND I HAVE A RESTING BITCH FACE. I JUST WANT EVERYONE TO KNOW THAT I AM ACTUALLY VERY FRIENDLY AND WANT TO WELCOME PEOPLE INTO THE COMMUNITY. THE LITTLE FAMILY WE’VE BUILT MEANS MORE THAN ANYTHING TO ME, BUT I WANT TO HELP PAVE THE WAY FOR THE NEXT GENERATION. SO DON’T BE AFRAID TO COME TALK TO ANYONE OF US AT SHOWS, WE DONT BITE, I PROMISE.”
- KENEDI, @fightonsight905
WHAT IS IT ABOUT HARDCORE THAT MAKES IT SPECIAL FOR YOU?
In my opinion, Hardcore has always been for the outcasts and the people looking for an outlet. It’s for everyone from all walks of life, who don’t feel like they have somewhere they belong. The sense of community and family that’s recently been fostered is something that I will always cherish. I’ve never felt more at home somewhere than I do in the Hamilton Hardcore community.
WHAT IS THE BEST PART ABOUT BEING A FEMALE IN THE HARDCORE COMMUNITY?
Right now, being a female in the Hardcore community means something way different than it did when I was growing up. I come from the “no clit in the pit” era, which was a terrible time to say the least. Women were mostly there to be ogled, and it turned many women against each other. It was a “kill or be killed” type of thing, and it took a very thick skin to make it through that. Now, being a female in Hardcore is like being a role model for the younger generation, and showing all the female (and female identifying) people that they have a place here.
You can get down with the boys in the pit, and some times even give them a run for their money. I’m not saying that I think people look up to me, but I like knowing that being a female body in the pit and on stage has helped to open the door for others to do the same.
“KENEDI IS AN ABSOLUTE FORCE TO BE RECKONED WITH. HER WORK ETHIC IS UNMATCHED AND HER PASSION FOR OUR SCENE AND THE COMMUNITY IS SOMETHING TO TRULY ADMIRE. ONE OF THE FRIENDLIEST, KINDEST & TOUGHEST INDIVIDUALS YOU’LL EVER HAVE THE PLEASURE OF MEETING. ALWAYS THERE TO JUMP IN WHERE EVER SHE CAN AND ALWAYS THERE TO CALL IT OUT WHEN SOMEONE IS ACTING A FOOL. ALSO, IF YOU’VE EVER SEEN HER AT A SHOW BE FOREWARNED… SHE’S ONE OF THE HARDEST DANCERS AND AN ABSOLUTE WEAPON IN THE PIT!”
- ROB, @rusthxc
JILL || MVLL CRIMES
Photo Cred 📸: @mgmphotoco
“LIFE IS CHAOS AND THE ONLY CONSTANT IS CHANGE. THE ONLY THING YOU CAN CONTROL IS HOW KIND YOU ARE. GIVE PEOPLE THE BENEFIT OF THE DOUBT AND PRACTICE ACTIVE LISTENING.”
- JILL, @MVLLCRIMES
WHAT IS IT ABOUT HARDCORE THAT MAKES IT SPECIAL FOR YOU?
Hardcore is such a special genre because it is so versatile. It can be political, antisocial, nihilistic, joyful - whatever you need it to be. I think it's special to me because I'm an angry person and Hardcore music makes me feel less isolated.
WHAT IS THE BEST PART ABOUT BEING A FEMALE IN THE HARDCORE COMMUNITY?
Women have always been part of hardcore but it's nice that, more than ever, we are getting our flowers. I'm grateful to have a platform where I can express my anger and talk about things that are important to me, like police violence and alienation.
“WELL, JILL IS JUST THE BEST. A COMMUNITY LEADER, CREATIVE FORCE, INSPIRING ARTIST, AND INCREDIBLE FRIEND. IN MVLL CRIMES, SHE DEMANDS THE AUDIENCE ATTENTION WITH HER POINTED, TRUTHFUL LYRICS, AND HILARIOUS STAGE BANTER. SHE WORKS SO HARD IN THIS BAND AND IN EVERYTHING ELSE SHE DOES. I COULDN’T BE LUCKIER TO BE A PART OF THE BAND WITH HER. “
- PATRICK, @mvllcrimes
HILLAIRY || FIGHT ON SIGHT
Photo Cred 📸: @_omarshoots
“THANKS FOR CHANGING AND BEING BETTER. THE PEOPLE IN THIS COMMUNITY HAVE BECOME FAMILY TO ME, I’M GRATEFUL FOR THEM AND THE OPPORTUNITIES THAT HAVE COME FROM IT.”
- HILLAIRY, @fightonsight905
WHAT IS IT ABOUT HARDCORE THAT MAKES IT SPECIAL FOR YOU?
For me, Hardcore has always been empowering, it’s an outlet for expression unlike anything else. Musically, artistically, physically, there isn’t anything else like it.
WHAT IS THE BEST PART ABOUT BEING A FEMALE IN THE HARDCORE COMMUNITY?
The community around Hardcore has changed a lot in the last few years, when I was younger & first getting into it the motto was “no clit in the pit”, it used to be a total boys club. The community now isn’t perfect, but there’s an effort to be better and it’s important to acknowledge that! Right now is an interesting time to be fem in Hardcore, I’ve always tried to make space for myself and other fem folks. I think the work those of us have been putting in over the years is paying off.
It’s hard to say there’s a “best part” to being fem specifically in Hardcore, I just like the music, the culture and moshing with my friends.
“HILLAIRY IS ONE OF THE KINDEST, MOST GENUINE PEOPLE I KNOW. SHE DOES SO MUCH FOR THE HARDCORE SCENE AND FOR THE PEOPLE IN IT THAT YOU MAY NOT EVEN REALIZE, WITHOUT EVER EXPECTING ANYTHING IN RETURN. SHE’S A GREAT EXAMPLE OF THE BEST OF OUR HARDCORE SCENE IN THAT SHE’S PASSIONATE ABOUT THE MUSIC AND ABOUT WANTING ONTARIO HARDCORE TO GROW INTO THE HUGE POTENTIAL THAT IT HAS, BUT ALSO THROUGH HER CONCERN FOR THE WELL BEING OF AND LOVE FOR EVERYONE INVOLVED. I’M TRULY GRATEFUL TO HAVE GOTTEN THE CHANCE TO GET TO KNOW HER.”
- CHRISTIAN, @fightonsight905
DANIELLE || FRICTION
Photo Cred 📸: @mgmphotoco
“IT ISN’T EASY FOR EVERYONE TO GET INVOLVED, SO I’D LIKE TO SAY I APPRECIATE WHEN I DO SEE THOSE IN OUR COMMUNITY MAKING IT POSSIBLE FOR PEOPLE TO STEP OUT OF THEIR COMFORT ZONE AND ENCOURAGE THEM TO JOIN IN. WE NEED MORE BANDS IN TORONTO SO BE KIND AND WELCOMING.”
- DANIELLE, @frictionstyle
WHAT IS IT ABOUT HARDCORE THAT MAKES IT SPECIAL FOR YOU?
It’s a community that has put me through the wringer a few times. I’ve had my ups and downs with feeling excluded and or overly sexualized/ unsafe in a primarily male-dominated genre. Although, I am fortunate to have seen Toronto Hardcore grow into such a welcoming community, and because of that I’ve made friendships that will last a lifetime. It’s special to me because I have been part of that positive growth and helped create an impactful environment with my best friends.
WHAT IS THE BEST PART ABOUT BEING A FEMALE IN THE HARDCORE COMMUNITY?
I think seeing younger versions of myself enjoying the scene as much as I do now, without hesitation.
“I THINK DANIELLE IS A FORCE TO BE RECKONED WITH. I THINK SHE THRIVED IN MORE MELODIC SONGWRITING ENVIRONMENTS (SHE’S A SINGER SONGWRITER), BUT HER CONTRIBUTIONS TO THIS BAND HAVE BEEN MAJOR FOR US DEVELOPING OUR SOUND. ALWAYS CONTRIBUTING RIFFS, HAS AN INSANE HARDCORE SCREAM WHICH I HOPE WE DO MORE OF, AND NOT SHYING AWAY FROM BEING CRITICAL OF THE MUSIC WE MAKE WHICH IS VERY IMPORTANT. EVERYONE IN FRICTION WAS A LONGTIME FRIEND OF HERS BEFORE THE BAND BUT I MET HER WHEN SHE MOVED BACK FROM THE UK IN 2019 WHICH IS WHEN WE MADE THE DEMO.
SINCE THEN WE’VE BECOME VERY CLOSE FRIENDS AND I’M SUPER PROUD OF HER KICKING ASS IN A MALE DOMINATED SCENE. BEING IN A BAND WITH HER HAS SHINED LIGHT ON THE WAYS THIS SCENE NEEDS TO STEP UP TO MISOGYNY WHETHER THAT MEANS TO STOP TOKENIZING WOMEN, OR GENERALLY SHOWING MORE WARMTH AND RESPECT TO THE WOMEN WHO SHOW UP. I’M SUPER GRATEFUL TO KNOW AND MAKE ART WITH DANIELLE.”
- NOAH, @frictionstyle
KRISTA || AB
Photo Cred 📸: @shot.by.demon
”BE FRIENDLY WITH ONE ANOTHER. WE ARE ALL GOING THROUGH A LOT AND PEOPLE NEED TO BE UPLIFTED. SUPPORT YOUR FRIENDS IN ANY WAY YOU CAN. WHETHER IT BE THEIR ART, MUSIC, VENUES, WHATEVER IT IS.
MORE ALL AGES SHOWS WOULD BE GREAT. THE CITIES IN WHICH WE LIVE ARE NOT MAKING IT EASY FOR US TO HAVE OUR SCENE AND WE NEED TO DO WHAT WE CAN TO MAKE SURE WE TAKE UP SAPCE. BE UNDERSTANDING OF ONE ANOTHER AND LISTEN. YOU CAN LEARN A LOT BY JUST TAKING SOME TIME TO ASK QUESTIONS AND LISTEN TO THE ANSWERS.
BE TOLERANT, BUT NOT OF RACISM, HOMOPHOBIA OR TRANSPHOBIA OR ANY KIND OF DISCRIMINATION. BE NICE, DONT BE AN ASSHOLE. A LOT OF PEOPLE NEED TO BE UPLIFTED.”
- KRISTA, @abraxas.reflux
WHAT IS IT ABOUT HARDCORE THAT MAKES IT SPECIAL FOR YOU?
The things that make it special for me are the community, being around like-minded people, and how cathartic it is. Being able to get on stage and get out all of that energy and connect with people through that, is my favourite part. Having a place to be myself, and share my feelings and opinions while shouting at the top of my lungs. It's free therapy.
Watching my friends make great music and seeing them perform is wonderful. It's such a rush seeing friends unleash their talent. Being surrounded by that raw energy you get being at a show is special to me. Its definitely a great way to connect with everyone.
WHAT IS THE BEST PART ABOUT BEING A FEMALE IN THE HARDCORE COMMUNITY?
As a transgender woman in the scene, I feel like my experience is different. For me, I wouldn't say that there is one best thing, but there are many things that make it great. The community has been very accepting and supportive. I was in the scene for almost ten years before I came out, so in a way, I've seen both sides of it. I can't speak for other women in the scene, because I feel like our experiences could vary so much from each other's. Seeing other women in the scene gives me hope. I've always seen myself that way and it's great to have others to share that with.
“KRISTA IS ONE OF THE SRONGEST AND MOST INDEPENDENT PEOPLE I KNOW BUT IS ALSO EXTREMELY CARING, AUTHENTIC AND HILARIOUSLY SELF-DEPRECATING. SHE LIVES HER LIFE FEARLESSLY AND THIS BECOMES VERY APPARENT TO EVERYONE THE SECOND THE FIRST NOTE RINGS OUT ON STAGE AND SHE IMMEDIATELY BEGINS TO THROW HERSELF AROUND WITH ZERO REGARD FOR HER WELLBEING AND THAT OF HER POOR FLATTENED SM58.”
- AI, @abraxas.reflux
HAILEY || JOCK
Photo Cred 📸: @staygoulden
”THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH DAY 5 LEFTOVERS, THE POLITICS CAME FIRST, YOU CAN CARRY A TRULY IMPRESSIVE AMOUNT OF NATIVE WILDFLOWER SEEDS IN YOUR CARGO PANTS POCKETS, SOMETIMES CROWD KILLING IS OK AND HILARIOUS AND IF YOU ARGUE ABOUT HARDCORE ON THE INTERNET I THINK YOU’RE DUMB”
- HAILEY, @jockhc
WHAT IS IT ABOUT HARDCORE THAT MAKES IT SPECIAL FOR YOU?
I think everyone craves shared experience! Hardcore provides that on a really visceral level - knowing the majority of your community shares the same core values is a special thing.
WHAT IS THE BEST PART ABOUT BEING A FEMALE IN THE HARDCORE COMMUNITY?
At the risk of sounding like an ass I don’t think my experience as a woman is different in Hardcore than it is in any other area of my life. The whole “Female Fronted” trope is irritating (for reasons I could rant about extensively but will not, yet) but I’m hopeful it’ll phase out with more representation. The best part of Hardcore for me has always been the people - I’m eternally grateful for the bonds I’ve built because of this scene and it’s a joy to see your friends accomplish things, musically or otherwise.
“SHE’S AN INCREDIBLY INTELLIGENT HUMAN BEING AND SHE IS ONE OF MY FAVOURITE LYRICISTS IN THE PROVINCE. SHE’S TOUGH AS NAILS, STRONG WITH HER CONVICTIONS, STICKS UP FOR HER FRIENDS AND ISN’T AFRAID TO TELL PEOPLE WHAT THEY NEED TO HEAR, EVEN IF IT ISN’T EASY TO HEAR. THERE’S A LOT OF COMPASSION AND EMPATHY THAT COMES ALONG WITH THAT. YEAH SHE’S A GREAT PAL!
REALLY HAPPY TO WORK WITH HER. I ALWAYS STRIVE TO BE MORE LIKE HER.”
- BOBBY, @jockhc
Stay current with ONHC : @ontarioxhardcore
Writer : @bertnay
Editor : @just_reidz
03/08/23
WILD SIDE || HARDCORE FOR THE SUPERCHARGED
Photo Cred 📸: @vickibmphotos
Formed in 2014, and almost a decade later now, Wild Side has never seized to be underwhelming. The talent and energy is unmatchable. Made up of four individuals who are incredibly talented musicians, this band is the epitome of what it means to be even better together.
With a clear influence of 80s hardcore, heavy metal and rock, this Ontario Hardcore band has done nothing but make our province proud and we are very excited to see what the future holds for them. Who the hell is wild side? Well, we had the privilege of asking some questions and finding that out.
“WE WILL PLAY WITH ANYONE, ANYWHERE, ANYTIME. SHOUTOUT TO ALL THE GOOD PEOPLE MAKING GOOD MUSIC”
WHAT DOES THE NAME “WILD SIDE” MEAN?
Mötley Crü song of the same name.
FOR PEOPLE WHO HAVEN’T HEARD OF YOU BEFORE HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR BAND?
They have to decide for themselves. Words can’t explain. It has to be seen and heard to be understood.
WHAT ARE YOUR MAJOR INFLUENCES?
A lot of bands/artists. Warzone, Underdog, Token Entry, Metallica, Guns ’N Roses, Righteous Jams, Bad Brains, Beastie Boys, etc.
Hardcore + Hair-Metal + Rap + Rock ’N’ Roll = Wild Side
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE SHOW YOU’VE PLAYED SO FAR?
Hard to pick.. A lot of ties. We did a show at a motel in Las Vegas with Diztort and Mil Spec, anything at Shibgb’s in Toronto, ICP in Barrie, LP record release at Velvet Underground, Sound And Fury 2019. Atlanta with Magnitude and One step closer. Each show is everything you could wish for.
WHAT’S COMING UP FOR THE BAND THIS YEAR?
New music, singles and a record I think. Some weekends and small tours in USA and some stuff in Europe I think. Just keep building the hardcore music machine.
Checkout their Bandcamp here: Wild Side
Writer : @bertnay
Editor : @just_reidz
02/24/23
ONTARIO HARDCORE PHOTOGRAPHERS TO WATCH OUT FOR
Photographers in the Hardcore scene are a fundamental component to the community. They are possibly the most underrated but most deserving of praise. We had the absolute privilege of interviewing five Hardcore photographers who have made an imprint on our community, five who have captured the true passion, emotion and dedication that is Hardcore.
TERA || @SHOT.BY.DEMON
Photo Cred 📸: @shot.by.demon
Documenting shows since 2003, Tera has definitely made their mark in the Hardcore community. Their black and white photography and videography encapsulates the emotion, energy and spirit that is the hardcore scene. Not only are they unbelievably brilliant, they contribute so heavily with their positive energy and we are so fortunate to have them as one of our own.
HOW DID YOU FIRST GET INTO FILIMING AND PHOTOGRAPHING LIVE BANDS?
I started taking photos when I was a little kid. I was one of those people who always had a camera on them and when I went to my second show when I was fourteen, I started taking photos and videos. I used to sneak a digital camera in to the shows because a lot of the times big shows did not allow that back then. It was just something I enjoyed doing for memories. Then my friends were in a band and I got to promote them.
I think that’s one of my favourite aspects of doing band photography, I have an unquenchable thirst for new music and being able to share bands so that they can inspire people and have more listeners.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PART ABOUT FILMING THE HARDCORE SCENE?
For me, there’s no other community like the hardcore community. I have never fit in anywhere or have been so welcomed like I have in the hardcore community. Not to mention the community’s energy and passion. A lot of the times people misunderstand it and classify it as scary and violent but we are just dancing and having fun.
If somebody hits you they’re going to catch you or they’re going to hug you or say sorry. You don’t get that in other pits.
WHO’S YOUR FAVOURITE ONTARIO BANDS CURRENTLY?
That is a very VERY hard question for me to answer. I have had the privilege of working with a crazy amount of bands all over Southern Ontario. We have some very talented people here, but some of my favourites are: Reality Denied, the nicest human beings and just the sickest beat down, always one of my favourite bands to film. I don’t think I could capture their energy the right way by taking photos; they are just a band that deserves to be filmed.
A few others to mention, Mile End, Rust, Camaro, Street Justice, Cold Shoulder, Loose Teeth, The Slime, Die Alone – I am just missing so many more bands in our amazing community. Not to mention, all of the bands that have come from Quebec and other places that have played that are just truly incredible.
“TERA’S RELENTLESS DEDICATION TO THEIR CRAFT CEMENTS THEM AS A UNIVERSALLY RESPECTED AND UNSTOPPABLE FORCE IN THE ONTARIO ALTERNATIVE MUSIC SCENE. THEIR DETERMINATION PAIRED WITH THEIR INFECTIOUS POSITIVE ATTITUDE SERVES INSPIRATION TO BANDS, ARTISTS AND PHOTOGRAPHERS ALIKE! RD CHALLENGES ANYONE READING THIS TO FIND SOMEONE WHO’S DOCUMENTED MORE SHOWS IN THE LAST YEAR THAN TERA. GOOD FUCKIN’ LUCK. A PILLAR OF OUR COMMUNITY, AN ESSENTIAL DOCUMENTOR OF ONHC, AND GENUINELY ONE OF THE NICEST PEOPLE YOU WILL MEET. LONG LIVE THE DEMON!”
- MATT AND ANDREW, @REALITYDENIED
JOSH AND KOHLE || @SCUMCOLLECTIVE
Photo Cred 📸: @scumcollective
Josh and Kohle are the duo that make up Scum Collective. This talented pair is such an integral part of the hardcore community. You’ll find them right up front documenting bands as well as the pit. These two have captured insane and raw moments that truly capture the energy and spirit that is hardcore.
HOW DID YOU FIRST GET INTO FILMING AND PHOTOGRAPHING LIVE BANDS?
We talked about it after going to a few shows and decided we wanted to capture those live moments again starting in June.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PART OF FILMING THE HARDCORE SCENE?
Meeting new friends and new people, seeing the raw energy of hardcore shows, capturing the scene’s excitement, being apart of such a great welcoming community.
WHO ARE YOUR FAVOURITE ONTARIO BANDS CURRENTLY?
In no particular order; Reality Denied, Gavel, Rust, Mile End, Trauma Model, Die Alone, Spirit of Vengeance, Sicayda, Friction, The Fact, Temper Tantrum, Fight on Sight and so many more.
“ALL I HAVE TO SAY ABOUT JOSH AND KOHLE ARE KIND WORDS. THEY’VE ONLY BEEN GOING TO HARDCORE SHOWS SINCE JULY, NOW THEY ARE AT ALMOST EVERY SHOW. INCREDIBLY FRIENDLY AND HUMBLE DUDES. THEY REFUSE TO BE PAID; THEY’RE REALLY IN IT FOR THE LOVE OF THE CULTURE. ONE TIME WE TRIED SLIPPING THEM MONEY IN THEIR CAMERA BAG, AND WHEN THEY FOUND OUT THEY E-TRANSFERRED IT BACK (WE HAVE AUTO DEPOSIT SET UP SO HAD NO OPTION TO REFUSE IT).”
- JORDON MCGOVERN, @STEELCITYHARDCORE
CARLY BOOMER || @CARLYBOOMER
Photo Cred 📸: @carlyboomer
Carly Boomer, originally from Winnipeg has taken the Ontario photography scene by storm. With her radiant energy and incredible talent it was no surprise that ONHC welcomed her as one of our own almost instantly. Her incredible photos have documented some of the best moments we have witnessed in the scene and we can’t wait to see what else she has in store in the future.
HOW DID YOU FIRST GET INTO FILMING AND PHOTOGRAPHING LIVE BANDS?
Since I was around 13-14 I would bring point and shoot / disposable cameras pretty much everywhere I went, including shows I would attend with friends. I’ve been passionate about photography, art and music in general for about as long as I can remember, so combining those things came pretty natural to me! Around 2017ish was when I began to take music photography a little bit more seriously and intently when I started shooting friends’ bands.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PART OF FILMING THE HARDCORE SCENE?
Oh man it’s hard to narrow down a favourite part. High-energy shows where everyone is moving around and going nuts are my favourite kinds of shows to photograph in general, and you don’t necessarily always come across that in live performances with other genres. Overall I’d have to say the community is probably the best part; without that there wouldn’t be shows period or any of the genuine energy and excitement to capture. The hardcore community here does have a unique added layer of welcoming, inclusivity and coming together that is hard to find in other communities, which I really appreciate as a generally introverted person haha. I know going into a hardcore show that:
1. I’m going to have a good time
2. The community is likely going to go hard as fuck while the bands are playing
3. I’m going to interact with wonderful and inspiring people throughout the night whether I know them yet or not. The people active in the scene definitely make it what it is.
WHO ARE YOUR FAVOURITE ONTARIO BANDS CURRENTLY?
Again, that’s tough to narrow down, haha! I guess currently I’d say Mile End, Friction, Die Alone, Temper Tantrum, Judgement and Single Wound!
“SHE SETS THE BAR PRETTY HIGH, SHE DOESN’T MISS. IF WE GET A FOLDER FROM HER AND IT HAS 50 PHOTOS, 50 OF THOSE PHOTOS ARE BANGERS, HAHA IT MAKES IT HARD TO CHOOSE WHAT TO POST, BUT THAT’S A GOOD ISSUE TO HAVE, SO SHOUT OUT CARLY. SHE ALSO HAS A UNIQUE STYLE FROM THE REST OF THE PHOTOGRAPHERS YOU SEE AT SHOWS AND HER STYLE STANDS OUT! THE MILE END CHAT WAS BUZZING WHEN SHE HITS US UP ASKING IF SHE COULD SHOOT OUR SET! SHE’S DOPE AS FUCK!”
- JAKE THOMPSON, @MILEENDBAND
DAVID PRAPH || @DAVIDPRAPH
Photo Cred 📸: @davidpraph
A staple to the hardcore photography family, David Praph has been in the hardcore community for the last decade capturing remarkable moments that are truly unable to be duplicated, not only is he a great friend, he is remarkably brilliant in the work he does, and we are very fortunate to be able to consider him a part of our community.
HOW DID YOU FIRST GET INTO FILMING AND PHOTOGRAPHING LIVE BANDS?
Photography and hardcore have always have been a passion. I started shooting a handful of shows back in 2013 after meeting a few friends in college that introduced me to the southern Ontario hardcore scene. I’d say the big shift was in 2021. Rust reached out to get a few shots at the Killroom and that night sparked an entirely new love of capturing moments for Ontario Hardcore.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PART OF FILMING THE HARDCORE SCENE?
Honestly - it’s seeing the entire scene uplifting each other. That one friend you met at a show is now on stage yelling mosh calls. Getting an unreal shot of your friends doing what they love is such an insane feeling.
WHO ARE YOUR FAVOURITE ONTARIO BANDS CURRENTLY?
This is such a loaded question haha. There’s way too many to list off, but a few would be Die Alone, Rust, Fight on Sight, Gavel, SOV, Friction, Camaro, Reality Denied - I know I’m missing so many more..
“PRAPH IS THE HARDEST WORKING PHOTOGRAPHER I’VE EVER MET. LITERALLY STRAIGHT TO EDITING PHOTOS AS SOON AS WE’RE IN OUR VEHICLE LEAVING A SHOW. IF NOT BY THEN, STRAIGHT WHEN WE GET TO THE HOTEL OR WHERE WE’RE STAYING FOR THE NIGHT. NOT ONLY DOES THE GUY TAKE INCREDIBLE PHOTOS, HE HAS AN AMAZING EYE FOR VIDEO AND HAS AN INSANE VOICE AS WELL.
ONE OF THE SWEETEST, FUNNIEST AND MOST HUMBLE GUYS EVER, VERY BLESSED TO KNOW HIM AS WELL AS I DO”
-TOMMY WOOD, @RUSTHXC
MG || @MGMPHOTOCO
Photo Cred 📸: @mgmphotoco
It’s hard to know where to begin when talking about MG. They are a friend, a family member, a photographer and an all over asset to the hardcore community. MG is one of the most recognized photographers in our community, photographing and documenting bands all across the ONHC scene. Capturing the energy and the spirit with the absolute right timing, MG is an unbelievable force to reckon with.
HOW DID YOU FIRST GET INTO FILMING AND PHOTOGRAPHING LIVE BANDS?
I started band photography when I was 16, there was a little basement venue in Ajax, ON where Punk/ Hardcore/ Metal bands would play. I shot a couple shows with a shitty camera that ended up breaking, but that May I got a rebel T3I or a couple hundred bucks and fell in love with band photography.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PART OF FILMING THE HARDCORE SCENE?
I love the energy and the chaos! It’s so intense and super fun because you have to pay attention to the bands, the viewfinder, and also what’s happening behind you so you don’t get cracked in the head hahaha. I love the danger!
WHO ARE YOUR FAVOURITE ONTARIO BANDS CURRENTLY?
My top three are definitely Gavel, Mile End, and Deadly Game. They’re all really different from each other but all are so good in their own way.
“MG WORKS HARDER THAN MOST PEOPLE TWICE THEIR AGE AND THE EFFORT SHOWS IN THEIR WORK. EVEN OUTSIDE OF THE HARDCORE SCENE MG IS ALWAYS AT GIGS ALL OVER THE MUSICAL SPECTRUM. I’M CONVINCED IF MG COULD BE AT MULTIPLE GIGS AT ONCE THEY WOULD BE, BUT WHICHEVER ONE THEIR AT IT’S GUARANTEED MG IS THERE SPREADING THEIR INFECTIOUS SMILE”
-IVAN MONDRAGON, @PANICRESPONSE
Stay updated with ONHC : @ontarioxhardcore
Writer : @bertnay
Editor : @just_reidz
02/20/23
TOTAL SILENCE || HARDCORE FOR THE SILENT
Photo Cred 📸: @youthandrust
Re-emerging in the scene in late 2021, Jason and Moe were initially recruited to be live members for P’s vegan, straight edge project called Unit X because they fit the two necessary criteria. After jamming for a few months P introduced some Metallic Hardcore songs and they decided to record, asking KD to do vocals, Total Silence was accidentally formed.
“P SAID WE JUST HAD TO RECORD A DEMO AND THEN WE’D BE FREE. HE HELD US IN A RECORDING STUDIO AT THE BUSINESS END OF A REVOLVER, PHIL SPECTOR STYLE”
-KD
Total Silence has definitely made an impression on the Hardcore scene and is also an excellent band to add to any mixed bill. They begin their run with Category 514 next week, we are very excited to see what they have in store for us in the future.
WHERE DOES THE NAME “TOTAL SILENCE” COME FROM?
J: It’s either from an Anti-Cimex song or pulled from a line in a John Prine song, whichever you think makes more sense.
FOR PEOPLE WHO HAVEN’T HEARD OF YOU BEFORE HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR BAND?
KD: We sound like the Great Lakes—polluted, the waters only clearing up to host toxic algae blooms. Or at least bands that came out of this area, the Swarm, Buried Alive, Integrity, Cold as Life. Lake effect hardcore.
WHAT ARE YOUR MAJOR INFLUENCES?
KD: Early grindcore, Cleveland, Detroit, Crust Punk, Discharge… Uhhh communism.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL BANDS YOU’D LOVE TO PLAY WITH OR SHOUTOUT?
KD: Would love to play with Tomb Mold (c’mon Derrick please) and Beyond the Pale (c’mon Greg please).
J: Shoutout to Phantom Crawl, Kawthra, Imploders, Wedge.
WHAT’S COMING UP FOR THE BAND THIS YEAR?
J: We’ve got a weekend of shows coming up this month with Category 514 and Real World then after that finishing writing and recording a 7” which will probably be out by 2025 based on how backed up pressing plants are.
KD: That, or breaking up.
Catch Total Silence in Hamilton on February 24th at Doors Pub with Real World, Category 514, Deadly Game and Fistful Of Hate for what will surely be another unforgettable Steel City Hardcore show.
Checkout their Bandcamp here: Total Silence
Writer : @bertnay
Editor : @just_reidz
02/17/23
MILE END || HARDCORE FOR THE NEW GENERATION
Photo Cred 📸: @carlyboomer
Blooming from Flower City is Brampton’s finest Mile End. With a unique sound and songwriting so potent and stimulating, they have taken the DIY Hardcore scene to a new level. First founded by Patrick, Brandon and Alex and later by their frontman Jake in 2018. Mile End made a name for themselves in the scene when they were only in their late teens.
These four truly have proved that they pave the way for the new generation of Hardcore by giving back the same respect they received when entering the scene.
“SO LET THE KIDS INTO HARDCORE, IF IT’S SOMETHING THEY’RE MEANT TO BE IN AND THEY WANT TO STICK WITH FOREVER OR FOR A LONG TIME THEY’LL TAKE THE TIME TO LEARN AND RESPECT HARDCORE”
Mile End vocalist Jake tells us. We had the opportunity to sit and chat with him and ask him a few questions:
WHERE DOES YOUR NAME “MILE END” COME FROM?
Man we got the name Mile End from Patrick, he was big into Godspeed our when we started, Godspeed is from mile end Montreal so they just named it after that. Shout out Montreal HC.
FOR PEOPLE WHO HAVEN’T HEARD OF YOU BEFORE HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR BAND?
Anyone who doesn’t know Mile End, dang I don’t know haha people say we’re weird Hardcore and pull breakdowns out, outta nowhere. So I guess weird HC but not like cringe nerd shit I guess.
WHAT ARE YOUR MAJOR INFLUENCES?
We all got different ones but as a band collectively Deftones is a common one, early Refused, any weird sounding hardcore always draw our attention also we found Turnstile’s Step To Rhythm in high school and that shit kinda had a chokehold on us and our homies so fuck it I guess Turnstile too. Personal ones, Mil-Spec or World Of Pleasure are some that come too mind first there’s more but that’s what I got on my mind right now.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL BANDS YOU’D LOVE TO PLAY WITH OR SHOUTOUT?
Local bands, gotta shout out our OFFLEASH crew with Doflame and Dear-God, also other Brampton bands Sicayda and Temper Tantrum. Also some big homies Gavel, Cohezion, Reality Denied, Fight On Sight, Die Alone, Friction, The Fact, SOV, The Beat, Deadbolt, Prowl, Cloned Apparition. Straight up shout out everyone also shout out XconditonedX and Dear Evangeline, a young Brampton band starting out, ready to do dope shit. I think I named all of ONHC with that one- haha. Plus some MTLHC.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE SHOW YOU’VE PLAYED SO FAR?
We played under a bridge in Montreal with Deadbolt, Gavel, Desecrate and Sicayda. That shit was unreal, we also did a Christmas show a few months ago in a church in Brampton with Dear-God, Doflame and Deadbolt. That shit was tight felt like the stuff us DG and Doflame would do in high school, felt like we found a sick Brampton DIY spot until that church pulled some whack shit a few days after, but no worries us and Doflame have some leads in Brampton DIY spaces.
WHAT’S COMING UP FOR THE BAND THIS YEAR?
We got a bunch of new music ready to be released this year, lots of big shows planned, lots of outta town shows in the works. Some big announcements coming real soon, overall just really stoked for Mile End this year!
Checkout their Bandcamp here: Mile End
Writer : @bertnay
Editor : @just_reidz
02/10/23
NO WARNING || HARDCORE FOR THE DECADES
Photo Cred 📸: @angelaxowens
This weeks spotlight is on a band that really put ONHC on the map, a Hardcore band from Toronto, Ontario, the legendary No Warning. This band made an incredible impact on the Hardcore community provincially and internationally. Ill Blood became their landmark album and to this day is still held to high standard in the community for both new and old members. We sat down with their guitarist Jordan Posner to chat about their recent return to the stage playing in Baltimore’s Disturbin’ The Peace Fest with Trapped Under Ice and End It, the band is hinting that’s not all to expect from them in 2023.
WHERE DOES YOUR NAME NO WARNING COME FROM?
Ben, Matt and I were in a band called As We Once Were, a very posi youth crew band. The name was horrible and we got tired of playing that style of hardcore, so we decided to break up. We wanted to play stuff that was more influenced by the heavier NYHC bands. For picking a new name, we liked something with the word “warning” in it because of Agnostic Front’s “Last Warning”.
We wanted to be called Fair Warning but since we were like 16 years old, we didn’t know there was a 1980’s hc band from Montreal with that name. They were awesome btw.
So we settled on No Warning. Haha. Plain and simple.
WITH ILL BLOOD BEING RELEASED IN 2002, NOW OVER TWO DECADES LATER IT’S STILL INTERNATIONALLY CONSIDERED ONE OF THE BEST WRITTEN HARDCORE ALBUMS OF ALL TIME. DID ANY OF YOU EXPECT THAT ALBUM TO BE RECEIVED ON THAT LEVEL?
We knew we were sitting on something we were proud of and couldn’t wait for everyone to hear it, but we weren’t really expecting anything else beyond that. We saw the record making people’s album of the year lists and stuff like that, and then noticed more people coming to our shows and reacting to those songs. That was enough to make us happy. The fact that after this long , an album that we made when we were a bunch of teenagers would be regarded like it is today, it means a lot to us, and we’re all very appreciative.
WHO ARE YOUR FAVOURITE LOCAL ONTARIO HARDCORE BANDS?
Past and present...
The Swarm
Rammer
Trigger Happy
Sabotage
Wildside
Friction
WHAT IS YOUR WORST TOUR MEMORY?
Anytime I’ve broken a limb and decided to finish a tour. It’s happened more than once.
AFTER STARTING OFF 2023 PLAYING AT DISTURBIN’ THE PEACE, DO YOU HAVE ANYMORE PLANS FOR THE REST OF THE YEAR?
I think a short Europe run and a local show is in the works. That’s about it. We’re not trying to do too much right now.
Checkout their Bandcamp here: No Warning
Writer : @bertnay
Editor : @just_reidz
02/03/23
STREET JUSTICE || HARDCORE FOR ANIMAL RIGHTS
Photo Cred 📸: @scum.collective
Street Justice is a project founded by Mike (Wish You to Death, Cold Shoulder) and Darren (Powerbomb), it also features other members of the Ontario Hardcore community. Street Justice is giving a voice through Hardcore for those that can’t speak for themselves. They use their music as a gateway to promote their beliefs in a way that everyone can collectively enjoy, in hopes for everyone to make a change in their life, a vegan future.
WHERE DOES YOUR NAME “STREET JUSTICE” COME FROM?
Mostly just thought it was a cool sounding name for a band and we felt like it vaguely fit the vibe for a peeved XVX band. It’s also the name of a pretty mediocre Cro-Mags song so sometimes people think it’s an homage to that, but that’s accidental. If the name were a tribute to anything it would be to this old TV show called Street Justice starring Hamilton’s own Bryan Genesse and Carl Weathers, which was basically a Lethal Weapon rip off from the early 90s where Hamilton legend Bryan Genesse does a bunch of kung fu to a really bangin’ theme song.
FOR PEOPLE WHO HAVEN’T HEARD OF YOU BEFORE, HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR BAND?
We’re a vegan straightedge band that’s trying to promote kindness and compassion through fast and moshy riffs.
WHAT ARE YOUR MAJOR INFLUENCES?
Our main major influence is our tireless quest for animal rights and animal liberation. The band is an outlet for Mike and occasionally me to yell about the pain we feel in our hearts when we see or think of animals being abused and exploited. The first priority of the band is to speak up about the constant abuse animals suffer daily that our society conceals, normalizes and ignores, so ya, those feelings and frustrations are our primary influence in that way. We try to write a few fun riffs that vibe with stuff like American Nightmare, Carry On, True Love, Good Riddance, Propagandhi, Anthrax, John Mayer, etc..
Play it fast for a minute or so and that’s a XSJX song.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL BANDS YOU’D LOVE TO PLAY WITH OR SHOUTOUT?
Gotta do Rust and Cold Shoulder, Die Alone is sick, shoutout to World of Pleasure, Inclination and Dare.. This is maybe the exact opposite of what you’re asking, but we really want to make getting over to Europe happen and play with some of the local XVX bands over there like Iron Deficiency, xApothecaryx and Caged.
WHAT’S COMING UP FOR THE BAND THIS YEAR?
Just finally getting out there with shows. Our next show is in Toronto on February 19th at Seescape. it’s a fundraiser for TIHR Toronto indigenous harm reduction and Nation Skate Youth so it should be very cool. We should have an announcement for another fundraiser show for an animal organization some time after that. We’re just out here raising funds in general for Charlotte’s Freedom Farm in Chatham, Ontario.
All proceeds from our tapes, merch, spotify plays, etc, are going to be used to make a donation to charlotte’s probably around the end of 2023 so hopefully we’ll be out there in your town this year slingin’ shirts and raising funds.
Checkout their Bandcamp here: Street Justice
Writer : @bertnay
Editor : @just_reidz
01/27/23
JUST RIGHT || HARDCORE FOR BREAKFAST
Photo Cred 📸: @scum.collective
Not too hot, not too cold, Just Right hail from Kent County, Ontario combining strong messages with stronger riffs. Playing their first show for SCHC in Hamilton’s Killroom, Just Right proved they have something powerful to say and people were eager to listen. This band embodies fight and for what’s just right. Stay tuned for their new EP release coming out soon.
WHERE DOES YOUR NAME JUST RIGHT COME FROM?
hahaha, in passing one time a friend of ours saw the cereal called Just Right and made a comment about how it would be a good band name and it was always just in the back of our minds. After we had jammed and needed a name one of us threw it out there and it just stuck.
FOR PEOPLE WHO HAVEN’T HEARD YOUR BAND HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR SOUND?
Straight up hardcore. ain't nothin more to be said.
WHAT ARE YOUR MAJOR INFLUENCES?
We all have very different influences so here's a few from each of us!
Ryan: No Warning, TUI
Mike: Bulldoze, Freedom
Tanner: King Nine, 25 Ta Life.
Nick: Backtrack, IED.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL BANDS YOU’D LOVE TO PLAY WITH OR SHOUTOUT?
Reality Denied, Die Alone, Gavel, Friction, The Beat, Wild Side, Prowl, Temper Tantrum, Spirit Of Vengeance, Fistful Of Hate, Behavioral Issues, Mil-Spec, Bar Down, Strange Ways, Mile End, Reliever.
WHAT’S COMING UP FOR THE BAND THIS YEAR?
We have been working hard on preparing our new EP and getting some more shows booked. We just want to hit the ground running and play as much as we can wherever we can.
Checkout their Bandcamp here: Just Right
Writer : @bertnay
Editor : @just_reidz
01/20/23
SPIRIT OF VENGEANCE || HARDCORE FOR THE VIOLENCE
Photo Cred 📸: @scum.collective
Hailing from Toronto, Ontario comes a new band that has brought talent, diversity and violence to the hardcore scene. Spirit of Vengeance is comprised of members who have been dedicated to Hardcore for many years, these guys bring a force so unique that is already unable to replicate. SOV hit the ground running with their first show recently and since then they’ve played with Montreal’s @prowlmtl and @deathbeforedishonour. You wont want to miss their next show on January 20th in Toronto.
WHERE DOES YOUR BAND NAME COME FROM?
It’s a Ghost Rider reference.
WHAT ARE YOUR MAJOR INFLUENCES?
90’s heavy HC like Devourment, Merauder, Crowbar, Irate and Weezer.
FOR PEOPLE WHO HAVE NOT HEARD OF SOV BEFORE, HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOURSELVES?
Knuckle-dragging hardcore / beatdown / interplanetary colonial doom for gorillas who smoke dope.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL BANDS YOU’D LOVE TO PLAY WITH OR SHOUTOUT?
Reality Denied, Just Right, Gavel, Rust, Die Alone, Destined To Burn, Cohezion, CRUELINTENT, Force Of Will, Temper Tantrum, Bar Down, Fist Full Of Hate and shoutout to Steel City Hardcore and Solace Productions.
WHAT IS UP AND COMING FOR 2023?
Releasing new material, playing as many shows as possible, hopefully travel for some out of province and out of country gigs.
Checkout their Bandcamp here: Spirit Of Vengeance
Writer : @bertnay
Editor : @just_reidz
01/13/23