Hardcore was back in full force at The Tote as Frankston’s own Fever Shack tore through a blistering headline set, backed by a stacked lineup of Victoria’s best heavy acts.

Walking into 170 Russell on a chilly August night, I knew I was going to be a part of a stand-out show. The crowd was already buzzing with anticipation, decked out in band tees and a lot of black, ready for a night of hardcore that would leave our ears ringing for days.

From the second I entered the grounds of Centennial Park, a smile emerged on my face and I can tell you it still hasn’t left. The vibes were immaculate. I hadn’t seen anything like this since Soundwave 2012. An endless sea of tattoos, hair in every colour and cut imaginable, custom denim jackets covered in band patches from every era of metal and nothing but eager anticipation for each act; I was in my happy place. 

The struggle of feeling trapped by your mental health is something that I know only too well. Trying to fight your way out of that deep dark hellish place, that in all honesty is one of the hardest things you will ever do. Infinite Illusion’s latest single ‘Absence’ takes you on that journey.