A distinct sound is getting a little louder, heavier on the drum and faster on the guitar - it's the rise of Punk/Metal music scene on the Big Island. And MoshPlayLive (MPL) couldn’t be happier. I had set out looking for any punk/metal shows on the Big Island and discovered that the island’s largest city, Hilo or as the locals call it Hilo Town, has quite the burgeoning scene. My first experiences catching such Big Island acts as Trey Wonder and the Graveyard Thunder, a very fun New Years Eve show with Thrash-O-Matix, and on tour from France, The Fabulous Courettes.
The venues around Hilo feel like the music scene of the late 80s-early 90s with different venues dotting the downtown landscape. The Hilo Downtown Market holds shows in a warehouse setting with such notable Punk acts Voodoo Glow Skulls, and JFA (Jodie Fosters Army) gracing their stage. And they just announced a May 11th show entitled “Hilo Punk Prom!” with El Sancho and others.
Kukuau Studio, right off Kilauea Avenue is a venue not to be missed on the Big Island. Every week MPL is usually found soaking in the sounds from the mezzanine or stirring up a pit. The Monday Night Jazz Jam will celebrate its 400th jam on June 10th. Along with the weekly event, Kukuau's stage hosts local performers building their sound to international acts throwing down an intimate, raucous set.
The headbanging scene isn’t just relegated to the windward side of the Island. Rock cover band Whatever, Heather regularly schedules appearances at The Blue Dragon Tavern and Musiquarium in Kawaihae. you’ll see young moshers mixing on the dance floor with swing and ballroom dancers for these incredibly fun, energetic shows on the Kona side of the Big Island. Speaking of Whatever, Heather we look forward to seeing them in Hilo in June, more details as they become available.
MPL recently sat down with the members of Trey Wonder and the Graveyard Thunder to discuss the growing punk scene on the island. Bass player AJ Slay responded, “for years it was almost non-existent, and now there is one.” The group considers this growth to be very positive. Drummer Steve Campbell believes the influx of people moving to the Big Island has helped influence the surge in popularity.
When I arrived on the Big Island I found it awash in floral print and sandals. But, as I explored, I soon noticed someone wearing a heavy metal shirt here and there. That confirmed a punk/mental scene existed. The discovery of the mentioned acts has been nothing short of awesome, their shows full of energy entice you to run around in a circle and with the talent level that runs through this Island, the noise is only going to get louder.
Peace, love and moshpits,
Graham
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