Jess Nelson On March 16, Canadian melodic hardcore giants Counterparts brought their signature mix of crushing riffs and raw emotion to Summit Denver. Delivering a night to remember for fans of heavy music. The evening kicked off with the blistering intensity of Foreign Hands. Followed by the bone-crushing grooves of Malevolence, and the unapologetic aggression of Pain of Truth. Each band set the stage for Counterparts’ powerful and cathartic performance, creating an unforgettable atmosphere of passion and chaos.
Foreign Hands
Foreign Hands, a metalcore band from Delaware and Pennsylvania, formed in 2016. The lineup features vocalist Tyler Norris (also of Simulakra and Wristmeetrazor), guitarists Jack Beatson (My Private War, Simulakra) and Gill Gonzalez, bassist Chuck Minix, and drummer Tyler Washington. Their music channels the intensity of early 2000s metalcore. Delivering high-energy performances that have earned them tours with acts like Stick To Your Guns, Counterparts, Dying Wish, and Boundaries.
In 2024, Foreign Hands released their debut album, What’s Left Unsaid, through SharpTone Records. Produced by Will Putney, known for his work with Knocked Loose and Vein.fm, the album showcases the band’s evolution. The lead single, “God Under Fingernails,” exemplifies their aggressive sound and dynamic composition.
Photos by Morgan Wolstencroft. Copyright © 2025 Morgan Wolstencroft ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Malevolence
Malevolence, formed in 2010 in Sheffield, England, has carved a niche in the metal scene with their potent fusion of sludgy metal and hardcore. Guitarists Josh Baines and Konan Hall, childhood friends who began playing together in 2005, teamed up with bassist Wilkie Robinson and drummer Charlie Thorpe to lay the foundation of the band. The lineup solidified with the addition of vocalist Alex Taylor, leading to the release of their debut album, Reign of Suffering, in 2013.
Over the years, Malevolence has garnered acclaim for their intense live performances and relentless touring schedule. They’ve shared stages with acts like Obey the Brave, Dying Fetus, and Knocked Loose, and graced festivals such as Download. In March 2025, they announced their fourth studio album, Where Only The Truth Is Spoken, set for release on June 20, 2025. The lead single, “If It’s All The Same To You,” showcases their signature blend of aggression and groove, drawing comparisons to Killswitch Engage and Pantera. Following this, the band unveiled plans for their most extensive UK and European headlining tour to date, culminating in a performance at London’s O2 Academy Brixton on November 9, 2025.
Photos by Morgan Wolstencroft. Copyright © 2025 Morgan Wolstencroft ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Pain of Truth
Pain of Truth is a hardcore band from Long Island, New York, formed in 2020. Fronted by vocalist Michael Smith, formerly of Hangman, the lineup includes guitarists Nik Hansen and Ridge Rhine, bassist Zach Stachura, and drummer Nick Barker. Their music blends beatdown hardcore and metalcore, drawing influence from 1990s heavy hardcore bands.
In September 2023, they released their debut album, Not Through Blood, featuring collaborations with members of Madball, Title Fight, and Terror. The band performed at Summit Denver on March 16, 2025, supporting Counterparts on their “Heaven Let Them Die Tour.”
Photos by Morgan Wolstencroft. Copyright © 2025 Morgan Wolstencroft ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Counterparts
Formed in 2007 in Hamilton, Ontario, Counterparts blends melodic hardcore with emotionally charged lyrics and crushing instrumentals. The band, led by vocalist Brendan Murphy, gained recognition with albums like The Difference Between Hell and Home (2013) and Tragedy Will Find Us (2015). Their raw energy and introspective themes resonate deeply with fans, solidifying their place in the hardcore scene.
Counterparts’ latest album, A Eulogy for Those Still Here (2022), showcases their signature mix of aggression and vulnerability. They continue to tour relentlessly, captivating audiences worldwide. On March 16, 2024, they headlined Summit Denver, delivering a powerful set alongside Foreign Hands, Malevolence, and Pain of Truth. Their commitment to emotional storytelling and unfiltered intensity keeps them at the forefront of modern hardcore.
Photos by Morgan Wolstencroft. Copyright © 2025 Morgan Wolstencroft ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
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