Flatspot World Europe 2024

© JACK RUDDER

With a mission in mind, SPEED are setting out to put Australian hardcore on the map. Formed in 2019, the Sydney-based band have a no holds barred approach and enticing sound that make them standouts in the genre. Composed of vocalist Jem, bassist Aaron Siow, guitarist Josh Clayton and Dennis Vichidvongsa and drummer Kane Vardon, SPEED showcase a tough exterior, but amplify their sense of identity and community in everything they do. Following the release of their demo in 2019, the band teamed up with U.S. label Flatspot Records for a two song EP in 2020 and they’ll join forces again for Gang Called Speed, set for release this June. Recorded with Elliott Gallart at Chameleon Studios, the six songs on the EP are centered around recognizing who you are in this world, taking ownership of that identity and not letting anyone tell you otherwise. Drawing influence from old school acts like Biohazard and Merauder just as much as bands like Trapped Under Ice, the band are putting forth pit-ready music that make it surprising they’ve only been able to play a handful of shows since their formation. That won’t last for long though as they have more performances planned, including their first trip to North America with an appearance at Sound and Fury in Los Angeles, alongside labelmates Scowl, Zulu, and more. Leading the pack of hardcore out of Australia, the band has seen huge support from Rolling Stone, Vans, and Triple J, and international press from outlets like Stereogum, BrooklynVegan, and New Noise Magazine. With a new EP on the way, Speed are positioned to make 2022 their biggest year yet.