Decades of sound form latest album
Forming in 1992, Sydney hardcore band Toe to Toe have been producing punk-fuelled soundtracks for outsiders and outcasts for more than two decades.
With the release of new album Rise Up and their upcoming gig in Dunsborough, the Times spoke with frontman and sole original member Scott Mac about the band’s history.
Sharing the stage with Madball, Sick Of It All, Agnostic Front, Strife, H2O and 59 Times the Pain, the band are often credited with spearheading the rebirth of Sydney hardcore with their no frills, uncompromising passion and intensity. “It’s been more highs than lows,” Mac said. “We’ve travelled the world, played with bands we love, had many late nights and just good times, really.”
But the vocalist and founder of independent label Resist Records said he had seen changes in the Australian hardcore community.
“It was more of a fixed community back in the 90s, it’s very sectionalised now,” he said.
“It’s full of genres and sub-genres, so it’s hard to tell who’s coming and going.”
With seven EPs, four LPs, compilation appearances and various other releases behind the band, Mac said their new album could be described as what a hardcore version of social distortion might sound like. “It’s pretty much a bit of a tribute to all our influences,” he said.
Despite facing complications with their record label, Mac said the band were happy with the album they had released.
Toe to Toe will play at Dunsborough Tavern on March 9 as part of Ram-Raid Entertainment and Soggybones’ newest skate-loving shindig, Soggyfest. Toe to Toe will headline alongside rising punk rock band Bare Bone.
WA bands Beerfridge, The Decline, Homestate, Freak Vibe, Scyatic, Worlds Apart and No Braine will also hit the stage for two shows in Dunsborough and Perth.
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