SPEED

Igniting the Global Hardcore Fire from Sydney's Core

Hardcore music, often misjudged as merely aggressive noise, is a vibrant, ever-evolving culture built on community, raw emotion, and defiant self-expression. It’s a scene that has consistently championed authenticity, challenging societal norms and fostering a unique sense of belonging for decades. In recent years, this culture has experienced a resurgence, its influence expanding globally, and at the forefront of this new wave, igniting a fervent energy from Sydney, Australia, is the undeniable force known as Speed.

For those outside its immediate orbit, hardcore can seem insular. Yet, its strength lies precisely in its grassroots nature and its inherent "do-it-yourself" (DIY) ethos. From crowded basement shows to global festival stages, hardcore fosters an intense, almost spiritual connection between bands and their audience. It’s a place where moshing isn't just chaotic movement, but a communal release; where singalongs are powerful, collective affirmations. This culture thrives on direct communication, shared values, and an unwavering commitment to sincerity.

Speed embodies every facet of this ethos, amplifying it with a distinctly Australian ferocity. Since their inception, they've been more than just a band; they've become a rallying cry. Their music, characterised by blistering riffs, pummelling rhythms, and vocalist Jem Siow's commanding delivery, is a visceral experience. But it's their message that truly resonates and has carved out their significant impact. Speed champions anti-racism, unity within the scene, and a direct confrontation of toxic masculinity and xenophobia. They use their platform to empower marginalised voices and demand a more inclusive, equitable world, proving that hardcore's aggression can be a powerful tool for positive change.

The band's rise, particularly with the release of their Gang Called Speed EP, has been meteoric and globally recognised. They've not only sold out tours across continents but have also brought a spotlight to the burgeoning Australian hardcore scene, inspiring a new generation of bands and fans. Their "Sydney Worldwide" mantra isn't just a tagline; it's an invitation, extending the hardcore family across geographical divides. They showcase how a band from a scene historically viewed as peripheral can become a global powerhouse, influencing fashion, slang, and, most importantly, the cultural conversation within hardcore.

Speed's impact extends beyond their musical prowess. They are cultural architects, demonstrating how to build a powerful brand around genuine values. Their videos are cinematic, their merchandise sought-after, and their live shows are legendary for their intensity and sense of collective catharsis. They understand that hardcore is not just about the music but about the entire experience—the art, the message, the community.

The ever-growing culture of hardcore is a testament to its resilience and its timeless appeal. In a world saturated with manufactured pop and digital detachment, hardcore offers something raw, real, and profoundly human. Bands like Speed are not just making noise; they are shaping a culture, pushing its boundaries, and ensuring that its message of unity, resistance, and unwavering self-belief continues to echo worldwide. Speed has proven that from the depths of a local scene, a global phenomenon can arise, carrying the torch of hardcore into a brighter, more inclusive future.