How to Be an Aussie Hardcore

The Australian hardcore and punk scene, sometimes called Aussie Hardcore, is a self-contained and musically rich scene of musicians from all over the island-continent. Australian hardcore bands embrace the punk ideal with self-published records, endless gigs and a personal style.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Tune into the Australian hardcore radio show "short.fast.loud" on the Triple J channel to get the best of the Aussie Hardcore music scene, including Aussie punk "classics" and fresh newcomers. To check the program online, head to ABC.net.au and search for "short.fast.loud" to get to the show's programming information and playlists.

2. Listen to Australian Hardcore bands such as I Killed the Prom Queen, Stolen Youth, R.A.D and Flogging Molly to get an understanding of the Australian punk sound. Pay special attention to live shows where bands show off their latest and often unrecorded work.

3. Wear a hybrid of punk, surf, skate and outback styles by mixing dark clothes with wide brim surf-skate hats and Aussie boots in place of skate shoes. Facial hair on guys is always encouraged while girls go with crazy colors and sharp, choppy edges to give their hair a punk style.

4. Pick up one of the many Australian hardcore zines such as Bombshellzine, dbMagazine, Rip It Up and Time Off magazines.

5. Head to as many Australian Hardcore shows as you possibly can, starting with the major venues of the scene such as Enigma Bar, The Depot, The Gaelic Club and Revolver. Also make it to one of the scene's important festivals such as the Funhouse Festival and the Big Day Out Festival.

Resources

• short.fast.loud Website.