South Carolina hardcore band Reviler formed in 2022 to scratch the post-COVID itch to get loud again. “Reviler formed in 2022 as a post-COVID project fueled by a simple urge to start playing music again,” says vocalist Will. With deep roots in the South Carolina hardcore scene, the band came together over “a shared love of heavy, energetic, and original hardcore,” quickly building momentum with shows and new material.
Early on, Reviler leaned into heavier, metallic hardcore influences. “We initially drew from bands like Turmoil and Earth Crisis,” guitarist Randall explains. But over time, their sound evolved into something more direct. “Over the past year, the band has shifted toward a more punk-driven, classic hardcore sound—focused on urgency and energy,” he says, naming Comeback Kid, Have Heart, Modern Life Is War, The Carrier, and early Turnstile as guiding influences.
That evolution comes through on New Way, the band’s upcoming new EP for Upstate Records. Today marks the release of “Collapse,” the first single from the EP. Will says the track is about reckoning and consequence: “The song explores the consequences faced by someone who has lived a selfish, controlling, and destructive life, ultimately being forced to confront the result of their own actions.” It’s a blunt, urgent statement that shows where Reviler is heading, both sonically and thematically.
Will notes that the EP reflects big personal and creative changes. “New Way represents the personal and creative growth the band has experienced over the past four years,” he says—including lineup changes, growing families, and shifting perspectives. Unlike earlier releases, the EP was written with intention. “The songs were designed to complement one another and flow as a cohesive listening experience from start to finish,” Randall adds, noting the band scrapped over 15 songs to keep things focused. The EP was recorded, mixed, and mastered entirely by Reviler for full creative control.
Beyond the music, Reviler stays deeply tied to their hometown. “We are very proud to call Greenville, South Carolina, home, and without our local scene, we would be nothing,” Will says. He describes a recent packed DIY show at a community center as a reminder of hardcore’s power when community comes first. “It felt like we were back in the early 2000s,” he laughs.
With a young, passionate scene and a long list of bands and promoters holding it down, Reviler’s message is simple: “Go to a local show. Find your community. Start a band.”
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New Way will be out soon via Upstate Records.
Reviler on social media: Instagram
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