High Vis Ignites Portland's Wonder Ballroom with Unrelenting Punk Fury – A Night of Hardcore Energy
On September 25, 2025, Portland's Wonder Ballroom transformed into a high-octane arena of punk fury as High Vis headlined a blistering five-band lineup. From the moment the venue's barricade was rolled out—a rare sight at this intimate space—it was clear that this show would be a raucous celebration of hardcore's raw power.
TOLLS: Oregon's Own Thunderous Opener
Kicking off the evening was Eugene's TOLLS, a band that seamlessly blends hardcore, metalcore, and punk influences. Their set was a relentless barrage of heavy riffs and impassioned vocals, setting a ferocious tone for the night ahead. They showcased their ability to deliver both intensity and emotion, making them a standout opener for the evening.
COLD GAWD: Shoegaze Meets Hardcore
Next up was Souther California's Cold Gawd, offering a unique fusion of post-hardcore and shoegaze. Their set introduced a more atmospheric vibe, with swirling guitars and introspective melodies that contrasted yet complemented the night's intensity. Songs like "Bomb Pop" and "Golden Postcard" highlighted their ability to blend dreamy soundscapes with hardcore energy, creating a captivating experience for the audience.
GAG: Seattle's Hardcore Dynamo
Seattle's GAG took the stage next, delivering a blistering set of hardcore punk that had the crowd in a frenzy. Known for their energetic performances and quick, punchy songs, GAG's set was a whirlwind of chaos and excitement. They had the crowd moshing and shouting along, embodying the spirit of hardcore with every note. Their performance was a testament to their status as one of the most exciting bands in the scene today.
No Warning: Hardcore Legends Reignite the Fire
Toronto's No Warning brought their legendary hardcore sound to the stage next. With a history of influential releases like Ill Blood, they delivered a set that was both nostalgic and electrifying. The crowd erupted as they played classics alongside newer tracks resonating deeply with longtime fans. Their performance was a masterclass in hardcore punk, reaffirming their place in the genre's pantheon.
High Vis: UK Punk's Vanguard
The night culminated with London's High Vis, who brought their unique blend of UK punk to Portland. Known for their fusion of hardcore, post-punk, and Britpop influences, High Vis delivered a set that was both emotionally charged and sonically diverse. Tracks from their latest album, Guided Tour, such as "Mind's a Lie" and "Mob DLA," showcased their evolution as a band, incorporating elements of house and trip-hop into their punk foundation. Frontman Graham Sayle's introspective lyrics, often drawn from personal experiences and therapy, added depth to the performance, making it a cathartic experience for both the band and the audience.
A Night to Remember
High Vis's performance at the Wonder Ballroom was a testament to the enduring power of punk music. Each band brought their unique energy and sound, creating a diverse and exhilarating lineup that captivated the Portland audience. From the heavy riffs of TOLLS to the atmospheric melodies of Cold Gawd, the raw energy of GAG, the legendary presence of No Warning, and the emotionally charged performance of High Vis, the night was a celebration of punk's past, present, and future.
For those who missed this unforgettable night, High Vis continues to tour in support of Guided Tour, their latest album that blends Britpop with elements of UK hardcore. With their dynamic sound and compelling performances, High Vis is a band that continues to push the boundaries of punk music.