Speed's debut album, Only One Mode, out July 12, 2024, via Flatspot Records, is a fierce testament to the band's dedication to the hardcore genre. This Sydney-based quintet has been a force in the global hardcore scene since their EPs, 2020 Flex and Gang Called Speed, and their first full-length album solidifies their place with a relentless, high-energy delivery that stays true to their ethos: "Hardcore, played hard, played fast, for us, by us."
From the opening track, "REAL LIFE LOVE," to the closing "CAUGHT IN A CRAZE," Only One Mode is a raw, visceral experience that captures the essence of Speed's explosive live performances. The album, produced by Elliott Gallart, showcases the band's growth while maintaining the authenticity that has endeared them to fans from all across the globe. Gallart's production on the band's debut album ensures a cohesive and powerful presentation of the band's vision.
Lyrically, Only One Mode dives deep into a slew of themes like marginalization, loyalty, realness, and vulnerability, offering listeners a window into the band's collective psyche. Tracks like "DON'T NEED" and "NO LOVE BUT FOR OUR OWN" emphasize the band's commitment to their hardcore roots and the tight-knit community they cherish.
The musicianship on this album is impeccable. Jem Siow's vocals are commanding and urgent, driving home the intensity of each track. Aaron Siow's bass lines provide a solid foundation, while Josh Clayton and Dennis Vichidvongsa's guitars weave intricate, razor-sharp riffs. Kane Vardon's drumming is relentless, propelling the album forward with unyielding energy.
"THE FIRST TEST" and "KILL CAP" are standout tracks, showcasing the band's ability to blend fast-paced performances and precision with a raw, unfiltered edge. "THE FIRST TEST" features one of the most unique breakdowns on a hardcore record in some time, with a playful flute break performed by vocalist Jem Siow. "SEND THEM 2 SYDNEY" and "SHUT IT DOWN" highlight Speed's knack for creating anthemic, crowd-pleasing songs that are sure to ignite mosh pits worldwide -not that the rest of the album's tracks wouldn't.
Only One Mode is more than just an album; it's a manifesto of Speed's beliefs and a celebration of the hardcore culture that shaped them. The band's dedication to their friends, family, and the Australian hardcore scene shines through in every note, making this debut a powerful statement of intent.
In a genre often characterized by fleeting trends, Speed's Only One Mode stands out as a timeless record that honors the past while forging a path forward. This is hardcore at its finest: raw, real, and unapologetically honest. For fans of the genre, this album is a must-listen, and for Speed, it's a definitive declaration of their place in the hardcore pantheon.