Kiwistyle Podcast - Jason Gascoigne (Standover & Gravel Pit)

Introduction

This tutorial provides insights into the journey of Jason Gascoigne, a prominent figure in the Wellington hardcore music scene, as discussed in the Kiwistyle Podcast. It highlights key aspects of his career, the evolution of the underground punk scene, and the emergence of metallic hardcore in New Zealand. By exploring these topics, you'll gain a better understanding of the music culture in this region and learn about influential bands and their contributions.

Step 1: Understanding Jason Gascoigne's Background

• Jason, known as "Face" among friends, has been active in the music scene for over 25 years.
• He started his journey in the underground punk scene, which laid the foundation for his involvement in hardcore music.
• Familiarize yourself with the significance of the Wellington hardcore scene and its evolution into metallic hardcore bands.

Step 2: Exploring the Underground Punk Scene

• Research key bands and events that shaped the underground punk movement in New Zealand.
• Identify influential venues and festivals that were pivotal for bands during Jason’s early years.
• Consider listening to some of the early punk tracks to appreciate the raw sound and energy that characterized this era.

Step 3: Transition to Metallic Hardcore

• Understand how the punk scene matured into metallic hardcore, a genre blending aggression with more complex musical structures.
• Explore prominent bands that emerged during this transition and their impact on the genre.
• Listen to examples from both punk and metallic hardcore to grasp the differences and developments in sound.

Step 4: Discovering Jason’s Bands

• Learn about the bands Jason has drummed for throughout his career, including:
  • Gravel Pit
    • Listen to their music on Spotify to appreciate their style.
    • Watch live performances, such as the Gravel Pit set by Judgment Day Productions, to see their energy and stage presence.
  • Standover
    • Similarly, explore their discography and live performances.
• Analyze how each band contributed to the hardcore scene in New Zealand.

Step 5: Supporting the Local Music Scene

• Discover ways to support local bands and the music community in Wellington.
• Consider purchasing merchandise from bands like Xile to contribute financially.
• Attend live shows and engage with the community to experience the music culture firsthand.

Conclusion

Jason Gascoigne’s story reflects the rich history of the Wellington hardcore scene and the evolution of music in New Zealand. By following these steps, you can deepen your understanding of this vibrant culture, appreciate the music of influential bands, and find ways to support local artists. Whether you're a fan of hardcore or just exploring new music genres, there's much to discover in this dynamic scene.