Gouge Away

Gouge Away by Maureen Roxanny

Hardcore can be formulaic and tired at times; same breakdowns, same throaty vocals, same topics of conversation, whatever. Bands like Gouge Away keep the scene evolving into a different sort of monster all together. The band has been working hard over the last few years to spread the good word about the South Florida music scene and consistently deliver electrifying shows. They just got back from what looked to be an amazing set at the Fest 14 and are set to release their new full length, “, dies.”

For those not in the know Gouge Away are a female fronted, tough as nails hardcore band from Fort Lauderdale. The best way to describe them would be focused and unhinged all at the same time; a swirling maelstrom of controlled chaos with a sound that’s got some of the best elements of both 80’s and 90’s hardcore.

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It’s clear from their music and their esthetic that they are driven by their passions. In what seems to be a very quant idea these days, they have morals and stances on topics. Most people just ape the hardcore look and never really get into what the whole scene has been about. Hardcore and punk rock isn’t JUST about wrecking shit in the pit; it’s an ethos that can be whatever you want it to be. However, some people have forgotten that it’s also about having opinions, sticking to your guns on ideals and never giving in to the oppression of others. Joe Strummer knew that, Ian Mackaye knows it and a whole generation lived it. These kids get it and do it right, preferring all ages shows; writing songs about real issues that concern the band and generally being about, what they talk about.

Gouge Away are celebrating their new record with an upcoming East Coast tour. However, before they leave our fair state for the wonderful wilds of the North; they are playing a record release show at O’Malley’s in Margate with a stacked line-up of fantastic bands: Wrong, Guilty Conscious, Insignificant Other and Woolbright round out the bill to a night that will be as equally positive as it is sweaty and deranged.

Gouge Away play O’Malley’s in Margate; Saturday, February 13. Show starts at 6pm, $10 at the door, all ages.
RSVP
~ Tim Moffatt