On a night when Indianapolis was buzzing with Taylor Swift fever, the Egyptian Room at Old National Centre was host to an entirely different kind of spectacle—a night of relentless hardcore energy led by Knocked Loose with support from Hatebreed, Drain, and Militarie Gun. Despite competing with one of the world’s biggest pop stars in the same city, the crowd that showed up for this show proved that hardcore and punk rock still hold a passionate and fervent following.

Starting off the night was Militarie Gun, whose performance set the tone for what was to come. Their blend of post-hardcore and punk-infused aggression was the perfect opener, bringing raw, infectious energy that had the audience engaged from the first chord. Songs were delivered with a ferocity that made it clear Militarie Gun wasn't just there to warm up the crowd—they were there to make an impact. The pit was already showing signs of the chaos to come, with fans shouting along to every word. Check out the gallery!

Next up was Drain, a band that has been making waves in the hardcore scene with their unique blend of thrash and punk. Drain brought an explosive set that felt like a shot of adrenaline straight to the heart of the venue. Their high-energy presence on stage and the relentless pace of their music kept the crowd in a constant state of motion, with crowd surfers and mosh pits erupting throughout their set. It was the kind of performance that turned casual listeners into die-hard fans. Check out the gallery!

Hatebreed, the veteran hardcore act, took the stage next, and they delivered exactly what the crowd wanted: unfiltered, high-octane aggression. Jamey Jasta commanded the stage with the kind of intensity that only comes from decades of experience. Tracks filled with powerful, motivational lyrics resonated with the crowd as fists were raised and voices screamed back every word. Their set was a reminder of why Hatebreed has remained a cornerstone in the hardcore and metal scene for so many years. Check out the gallery!

Finally, Knocked Loose took the stage, and the energy in the room reached its peak. The Kentucky hardcore outfit has made a name for themselves with their crushing breakdowns and emotionally charged lyrics, and their live performance only amplifies that reputation. The crowd's response was a frenzy of moshing, screaming, and unbridled enthusiasm. Even with the competition of a major pop concert elsewhere in the city, Knocked Loose's performance proved that the hardcore community is as strong as ever. The band’s raw intensity and powerful stage presence turned the Egyptian Room into a chaotic, yet euphoric, whirlwind. Fans left with sweat-soaked shirts, bruised bodies, and, if I had to guess, without a voice the next day. Check out the gallery!

As the night came to a close, it was clear that Indianapolis had been treated to an unforgettable showcase of hardcore and punk talent. Each band brought something unique to the stage, making the evening not just a concert, but an experience that reminded everyone in attendance why they fell in love with heavy music in the first place.