hercules: omahardcore
Posted on 05. Mar, 2010 by Seth in music
words > TROY R. WELLS
photos > KEITH MCGRATH
What still gets you excited? The kind of thing that—from the first time you experienced it—gets you amped and makes you smile like a little kid every time? For me, it’s when a band can be raw, sincere—maybe even a little rough around the edges—and still get their feelings and message across. The kind of band that can get up on stage and really kick out the jams. Unbridled, unpretentious, and aggressive as all get out. When I’ve seen them, Omaha hardcore band Hercules embodied those things and got those youthful feelings coming back. I expect them to do it again this month.
The first time I heard about Hercules coming to town, they were playing a garage down south. I judged them by the name, thought about Eddie Murphy, and decided to pass. I was informed the next day that it was my loss for not coming out, and I made a concerted effort to see them the next time. I was not disappointed. When the term hardcore is used so loosely it’s almost meaningless, Hercules stands as the genuine article.
They’re one of those bands you watch and know—“These guys get it.” That being a band is what you make of it, and a DIY work ethic with a middle-finger attitude can serve you better at times than grooming yourself to be the easily digestible next big thing. They seem more interested in touring, recording, and actually doing what most bands only talk about.
Hercules is a loud, buzzing, scream-filled donut of aggression that powers down your throat. It’s hard to find bands in their early 20s who make aggressive music that has creativity to it. This is not everyone’s favorite sound, and isn’t trying to be. Punk and hardcore have never spoken to the masses, so much as it has screamed at them. And to see musicians put themselves out there, with no sense of entitlement, and nail it is refreshing.
Hercules are a reminder that in every town, there is still that one group of kids doing something on their own terms. They’re not getting rich, but they’re making memories and noise along the way.
Hercules will stop through with fellow hardcore band BATTLE! on March 24 at the Eagle’s Lodge North (3103 N. Broadway). Locals Low Oriole, Robust Android, and Plaguebot will also be there.
