Knocked Loose, the American hardcore band from Kentucky, delivered a relentless performance at their Pittsburgh show, leaving fans both exhausted and exhilarated. Formed in 2013, Knocked Loose has rapidly ascended to the forefront of the hardcore scene, known for their aggressive sound and intense live shows. The recently released “You Won’t Go Before You’re Supposed To” is their third LP and has been rapidly garnering critical acclaim and topping the charts, cementing their place as a heavyweight in the genre. The band’s energetic performances and raw lyrical content resonate deeply with fans, creating an atmosphere of unity and catharsis at every show.

Opening the night was Speed, an Australian hardcore punk band making their Pittsburgh debut. Despite it being their first time in the city, Speed took to the stage with confidence and enthusiasm. They had one clear message for the crowd: “Find your people.” This mantra echoed through their set as they delivered a blistering array of tracks, urging the audience to connect with each other through the music. Their raw energy and passion set the tone for the night, making a memorable first impression on the Pittsburgh crowd.

Next up was Loathe, a band that seamlessly blends elements of metalcore and shoegaze, creating a unique and immersive sound. Their set was a sonic journey, with heavy riffs and atmospheric passages intertwining effortlessly. The crowd was entranced by their performance, swaying and headbanging in unison. Loathe’s ability to shift from crushing breakdowns to ethereal melodies showcased their versatility and musicianship, leaving the audience eagerly anticipating each transition.

Show Me The Body followed, bringing their distinctive fusion of hardcore punk, experimental noise, and hip hop to the stage. Frontman and banjo extraordinaire Julian Cashwan Pratt was a whirlwind of energy, delivering powerful vocals while executing incredible jumps and kicks that seemed almost acrobatic. Their set was raw and unfiltered, with an intensity that captivated the audience. The band’s visceral performance and Pratt’s electrifying stage presence kept the crowd on their toes, making for an unforgettable segment of the night.

As the anticipation built for Knocked Loose, a large curtain was set up in front of the stage, adding to the suspense. When the curtain finally dropped, the band exploded into their opening song with a glood of lights and gorgeous stage setup, creating a stunning visual that was met with a roar of approval from the crowd. The energy in the room was palpable as the band tore through their setlist, each song igniting a new wave of chaos in the mosh pit. The band’s tight performance and unrelenting pace set the stage for an unforgettable night.

Amid the impressive 16 song setlist, Knocked Loose included a song specifically for crowdsurfing, and waves upon waves of fans took to the air, carried by the sea of hands beneath them. It was a sight to behold, with the band feeding off the crowd’s energy and vice versa. The connection between the band and the audience was undeniable, each song a shared experience of release and unity. The band’s command over the crowd was impressive, with fans eagerly participating in every call and response.

Before a particularly intense song, frontman Bryan Garris encouraged fans to “push the person next to you,” resulting in an eruption of bodies in the mosh pit. It was a scene of controlled chaos, with fans giving in to the music and the moment. This show was their best Pittsburgh performance yet, a sentiment echoed by the band themselves. They played a mix of old favourites alongside new tracks from their latest album, “You Won’t Go Before You’re Supposed To,” keeping both longtime fans and newcomers engaged throughout the night.

With no encore, the night reached its climax with a final barrage of songs that left the audience breathless, concluding with the 2023 releases “Deep in the Willow” and “Everything is Quiet Now.” Knocked Loose’s set was a masterclass in hardcore performance, blending raw aggression with moments of melodic reprieve. The band’s ability to maintain such high energy and intensity from start to finish was nothing short of impressive. Each member played their part with precision, contributing to the powerful sound that has become synonymous with Knocked Loose.

Knocked Loose’s Pittsburgh show was a testament to their prowess as a live band. From the electrifying performances of the opening acts to the headliner’s explosive set, the night was a celebration of hardcore music and community. Fans left the venue drenched in sweat and buzzing with adrenaline, having experienced a night of pure, unadulterated hardcore. It was a night that will be remembered for years to come, a perfect blend of chaos, camaraderie, and catharsis.

May 28th, 2024