LOCKJAW, a hardcore band rising out of Melbourne, have carved their place in the scene with grit, persistence, and a sound that hits like a truck. Formed in late 2019, the band came together when vocalist Lucas connected with guitarist Bailey through a Facebook group for musicians. From then, the band quickly took shape with the addition of Lou on drums and Tanner on bass.
Despite the pandemic slowing their momentum, the early lineup managed to craft several tracks and establish the band’s raw foundations. After some lineup changes that saw the departing of Lou and Tanner, the band’s ranks were quickly filled with the arrival of Andy as second guitarist, with Jye and Elliot joining soon after to fill out the drums and bass. What began as a simple online connection has since grown into a tight-knit unit committed to pushing their sound forward, and building their presence on stage.
LOCKJAW’S early work draws from classic hardcore energy, but their sound has steadily grown as each member’s own background and influences came into play. From raw punk foundations, to their heavier, more layered elements, the band has built a style that is not only aggressive and dynamic, but unmistakably their own.
- Alexander Georgiou.
Alongside the band’s dedication to hardcore, LOCKJAW are equally as committed to the community, holding strong values of togetherness, positive energy, and celebrating the struggle. With the triumphant turn out at their first gig at Cafe Gummo, a packed out and chaotic night that still stands as their proudest moment (Shout out to Will Spicer for reaching out and Arborists for having them for another gig) LOCKJAW’s focus has always been about giving back to the scene that raised them, hoping to leave a lasting mark by making hardcore a welcoming place for anyone searching for belonging. As vocalist Lucas puts it, “If anyone comes to a show and feels at home, then that mark is sufficient for us.”
LOCKJAW isn’t just another band breaking into Melbourne’s hardcore underground, they’re a group built on resilience, forged in community, and ready to give every ounce of energy they have to the stage.
Written by Taylor Adams
