Refused are fucking dead…and this time they really mean it.
The hardcore punk band just finished their North American farewell tour after initially reuniting in 2012, with plans to continue the tour in Europe and the UK in the summer and fall. Joining Refused on this leg of the tour is New York’s post-hardcore punk band Quicksand. Chicago’s own Racetraitor also joined the lineup for this show at the Salt Shed.
Racetraitor is a hardcore punk/metalcore band formed in 1996 and kicked off the night of steadfast punk rock energy with powerful political rally cries. They are known for addressing a variety of issues through their music, such as systemic racism, inequality, and social justices.
Quicksand played next with legendary frontman/guitarist Walter Schreifels. He is known for being the main visionary charge behind the Gorilla Biscuits and Rival Schools, and the bassist for Youth of Today. Quicksand, Gorilla Biscuits and Rival Schools all played sets at Riot Fest 2023.
Formed in 1991 in Umeå, Sweden, Refused are renowned for their creative fusion of hardcore, punk, and metal, which has left a lasting impact on the music scene. Their 1998 album, The Shape of Punk to Come, is often hailed as a fundamental album that influenced numerous bands spanning many genres.
The lyrics of Refused emphasize far-left politics, with influences from anarchism, socialism, and other related principles. Between songs frontman Dennis Lyxzén gave inspiring speeches on today’s political climate, with the backdrop behind him read the daunting message of “THIS IS WHAT OUR RULING CLASS HAS DECIDED WILL BE NORMAL.”
They performed “Hate Breeds Hate” for the first time in 30 years and paid tribute to Iggy Pop’s Stooges by covering “Loose” who played at the Salt Shed the night before.
Refused has always been one of my all-time favorite bands and they will dearly be missed by all their fans…I certainly would not complain if they decided to rise from the dead once again, especially in an era where their resonating message of social justices are needed now more than ever. Refused may be fucking dead but their legacy will live on forever.
Check out the full galleries below!
𝖒𝖆𝖗𝖞 – 𝖛𝖆𝖈𝖆𝖓𝖙 𝖊𝖗𝖆 𝖕𝖍𝖔𝖙𝖔𝖌𝖗𝖆𝖕𝖍𝖞 
