New Jersey’s GEL are a modern take on classic Hardcore. Let me explain. In a Hardcore scene that is currently built around dynamic evolution of the traditional sound and direction - different genres and sub-genres being poured into the mix - GEL return to the raw aspects and punk elements of classic Hardcore. Their delivery of an authentic representation of what started it all off to a new generation has generated a massive buzz around them.

Bristol’s Split Chain are the only support band tonight, but it’s a treat to catch them as their rise in just a few months, with a heavy social media presence and some fantastic singles, has seen their hype skyrocket. They take to the stage, their look and sound clearly birthed from the resurgent nu-emo and nu-grunge scene. They exude a vibe reminiscent of the early 2000s MTV aesthetic and sound but present a refreshing balance of shoegaze and nu-metal elements to sit alongside those nu-emo/grunge sensibilities. Their guitars, immersed in chorus, seamlessly deliver the familiar grit of modern-day hardcore with dreamo ethereal vocal hooks. Drawing influence from, and now close to sitting alongside, newer artists like Narrow Head, Fleshwater, Bleed, and Soul Blind, Split Chain solidify the shoegaze and nu-metal crossover on every single track.

Despite the limited crowd interaction and the serious demeanour of the band members (possibly due to nerves – hell these guys are still young and new!) the vocals layer well into the overall sound and provide the narrative to the distorted riffs. When Split Chain hit a groove their performance becomes genuinely something special, and every head in the room is bobbing along. They execute everything they're aiming for with precision, and whilst there's room for improvement in their hooks and variety, the strong vibes reminiscent of Higher Power, Deftones' "White Pony," and Loathe mean these guys are onto a winner. Their seamless blend of genres and influences adds a distinct additional flavour to the scene, and as they continue to refine their sound and build on their strengths they have the potential to make a significant impact.

We know we’re in a classic hardcore gig as it kicks off immediately down the front as headliners GEL take to the stage. Their sound, reminiscent of early hardcore pioneers like The Plasmatics and GISM, is slightly re-imagined for this new generation, blending sharp-edged twin guitar aggression with rock-driven attitude. Sami Kaiser's coarse snarl gives the songs a singular shade of angry red akin to her hair, pushing the guitarists to carry melodic weight. Kaiser expresses a feeling of connectedness and vulnerability throughout the performance, framing it in a way that everyone can relate to. The vocal delivery might resonate with fans due to its raw energy and aggression, but the drummer's spectacular playing elevates their sound to something special. His contributions are crucial, adding nuance and keeping their sound interesting with expressive thrashing grooves amid sonic layers. Despite there sometimes being a uniformity of sound, Kaiser's attitude and personality saturates the tracks, ensuring the riffs remain hooky without having to present any commercial compromises.

GEL deal in searing riffs, incendiary rhythms, subtler moments of low-simmering tension, and melodic surprises, all delivered with unrelenting energy. The snare hits keep the energy in time, while the guitars add some nice nuances, driving the music fast and hard throughout. In fact, the band never drops below a frenetic gallop. However, amid their eruptions of power-chord shrapnel and hardcore-punk urgency, they reveal thrilling sonic detours, whether it's jarring noise-disco beats or haunting post-punk. Their explosive tracks satisfy old-school hardcore fans without relying on stomping breakdowns, appealing even to punk-leaning metalheads with their rabid anthems of defiance. Their latest album ‘Only Constant’ offers a more fleshed-out and eclectic set of songs, yet remains economical in songwriting, with only one track exceeding two minutes. As such we see a relatively short but perfectly formed set tonight – with the crowd sweaty, bruised, but wanting so much more again in the future.

Check the “In The Flesh” page for more photos!
GEL + Split Chain