Hardcore

The term hardcore has been used in the US as another word for punk. In the context of this discussion however it will refer to a form of music that blends elements of punk with metal. In hardcore the simplistic formats of punk were eschewed for more diverse song structures and playing techniques. The 'downtuning' of guitars and processing of signals were experimented with giving the music a more metallic feel. Production tended to be lo-fi to emulate live performances. Subject matter of songs can be dismal or aggressive and sometimes even political.

Bands that were to develop hardcore started forming in the late 70s (particularly in New York) and proliferated in the 80s. It was only in the 90s however that this music made the transition from local scenes and underground followings to worldwide acceptance and the spawning of a massive grunger fanbase. Key bands to contribute to the development or promotion of hardcore include Black Flag, Husker Du, Bad Brains, Bad Religion, Sonic Youth, Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, The Offspring, Smashing Pumpkins, Live, Hole, Foo Fighters and Silverchair. Hardcore has had an impact on contemporary rock and industrial.