Why you should go to more Hardcore shows.

Hardcore, metalcore, pop punk, and most things with the word metal often fall under the category "screamo" and it often gets a raw deal when it comes to mainstream popularity. 

I know that I usually get told to "turn it off" and "What the hell is that? They're just yelling". - That really gets me going. It's 'a scream' and there are so many different types of them.
But look, I totally understand why it isn't liked. It's angry, violent and in your face and not what people want to hear when driving in the car and possibly fall under the stereotypes attached - Emo.

But what many people don't know is that Australia is currently killing it when it comes to this scene. We have so many good bands from Parkway Drive who essentially paved the way for so many new great Aussie artist. Like Ocean Grove who are collaborating with electronic artists such as running touch. In Hearts Wake, Hellions, Savior and so so many more. We have such a vast amount of hardcore talent in this nation.

Hardcore is a very honest and raw form of music. It isn't afraid to touch on the darker places in life and even the heavier political issues facing the world today. It gives a voice to those inexpressible feelings that some of us need to get out and these artists put everything into their work. Not saying other genres don't, but hardcore doesn't really have nor ever had the mainstream popularity that other genres receive. 

This is where you breed the most committed music fans. Hardcore fans are so different from any other crowd I've witnessed. It is always the same people who turn up to the shows even if they don't really know the band's music they just love the atmosphere. The bands are also booked in smaller venues, like the back room of pubs and this allows for intimate shows with these die-hard fans and very cheap tickets. It creates an atmosphere like no other. Usually it's 50-60 people max at these local shows, which means patrons doing mic grabs and really interacting with the band.

And there is always a mosh pit. I bet you're thinking "fuck that." Swinging arms, kicking, circle pits thats not my thing and thats totally fine because I bet you have probably seen something similar at a large festival. The difference between the festival 'mosh' pits and a hard core mosh pit is etiquette and the patrons. At a festival you are most likely going to encounter the dude who's jaw is swinging harder than Mike Tyson's right hand. He is there to just try and 'fuck shit up.' Pushing people, putting hits on them when they aren't looking and then bail before you even get a look at them. I have friends who love this though, and each to there own. But after going to a 'proper' mosh pit you'll see why hardcore shows are the way to go. I could give so many examples but you'd get bored and I would like for you to experience it yourself. 

The people are so kind to each other in such a highly volatile environment, the bands are modest and humble and are willing to spend time with their fans. It is a whole other type of experience that I wish for you to experience yourself, even if you can't get past the 'screaming' just look at the skill level from the other members in the band and the energy created from them to the crowd and it'll blow your mind.
Or not. You can sit at home watching repeats of the Bachelorette and Married at first sight, who the hell am I to tell you what to do?

Pic from: Saviour 'Headstrong Tour' Newcastle.
Alex.