The sludge metal band Shingen is proof that the hardcore scene is alive in Niagara.
Originating slightly south of St. Catharines in the town of Fonthill, Shingen is composed of musicians Logan Scott (vocals/guitar), Austin Bertholds (bass) and Nathanial Lamondin (drums).
While identifying under the genre of sludge metal, Scott noted that “[Shingen] is also influenced by dream pop, shoegaze, grindcore and ambient drone.”
Following the summer release of their EP Wrought, Shingen embarked on a fall tour across Ontario and Quebec with fellow Niagara-based metal band, Sunnycide:
“It’s a rough experience on the mind, body and soul,” said Scott, in reference to the tour. “When you’re amongst good company it makes all the difference, if you are passionate about music it is entirely worth it.”
Hardcore music has its origins in the punk movement, making it a catalyst for social change and political activism. According to Scott, “[Shingen] is without hesitation a political band” which uses their platform to raise awareness of current social issues and to offer an outlet for frustration. Furthermore, Shingen and other local hardcore bands work to play benefit shows for causes whenever possible.
The cathartic effects of music are not unique to any singular genre. However, in the case of hardcore’s instrumental extremity and revolutionary ethos, the genre serves especially well for intense emotional release.
“… people appreciate the energy and feeling of community at live shows,” said Scott.
The history of hardcore music in Niagara is extensive.
Welland began as the beating heart of the community with Rose City Hardcore (RCHC), subsequently opening doors for prominent local bands such Sinner A.D., Reality Denied, BFD and Mil-Spec.
“I think our scene nurtures a really tight-knit community in Niagara, especially when outsiders may easily overlook it in favour of larger cities like Toronto,” said Scott, noting the closeness of the hardcore community. “It makes the Niagara scene an underdog you want to root for.”
He also mentioned that some attendees of Shingen’s summer shows had travelled from outside the Niagara Region.
Currently, Niagara’s hardcore scene has embraced DIY culture, encouraging artists and bands to make things work with what they have, fostering a creative-oriented philosophy. Scott is “100% behind” this movement, having firm beliefs about triumphing creative vision over strict technicalities:
“The technical aspects of music are important. But to me, the ideas and visions I have for music usually mean more,” said Scott.
“… not having a traditional music training background isn’t something that bothers [me].”
For outsiders, the current hardcore scene may be painted with several misconceptions deterring curious fans. A notably harmful one paints the community as exclusive to toxic white male aggression. This misconception “could not be further from the truth,” confirmed Scott. The catharsis of the hardcore movement is intended to represent and welcome everyone as new artists or audiences.
“If you are homophobic, racist or transphobic, you will be called out, people will find out, and you won’t be welcome. Hardcore was and still is built on unity. Anyone who spews hate is not welcome,” said Scott.
In 2024, Shingen has plans to record and release their second EP. They will begin performing shows again in the spring in both the Niagara region and surrounding cities.
The music of Shingen can be purchased in digital format on their bandcamp and streamed from Apple Music and Spotify. Information about show dates and locations can be found on the band’s Instagram page.
