Naarm’s DIY punks R.U.B are establishing themselves as the queens of feminist and activist hardcore punk within Australia’s vibrant and growing punk scene, embracing the political nature of the genre that is so necessary. Following the release of their blistering cover of the Spitboy classic ‘Ultimate Violations‘, R.U.B are back with their brand new five-track EP, Unaddressed Culture. This feminist manifesto explores the experiences of women in a world shaped by systemic violence, ongoing warfare, colonisation, and the enduring influence of patriarchy.
“We’re a deeply political band. There are injustices everywhere. This EP is our response to existing as femmes in the middle of it all.”. (R.U.B)
The album opens with the powerful song ‘Did I Ask?’. R.U.B express their weariness with mansplaining and unsolicited opinions, a sentiment perfectly reflected in the refrain “IT’S THE AUDACITY FOR ME”. A hardcore song in the Spitboy style, it clearly draws on the influences of riot punk bands such as Team Dresch and grunge bands such as Hole.
The second track, ‘Tell Me Why’, continues in a similar vein, highlighting the pattern of men’s need to reinforce their fragile masculinity through controlling and occupying women’s space, both individually and structurally. Adopting a more melodic style closer to danceable punk rock and riot grrrl, drawing on bands such as Bikini Kill and Bratmobile, R.U.B offers a respite without compromising the strength of their protest message.
‘Ultimate Violations’ is one of the central and most political themes of Unadressed Culture. This updated version of Spitboy’s classic is a devastating indictment of the growing wave of gender-based violence and the lack of protection faced by victims. It humanises the cold statistics presented to us, reminding us that each of these women was a sister, daughter, mother, lover or wife. The influence of the Poison Girls is clear, with Soph adopting a style similar to Vi Subversa, using trance-like repetition to reveal uncomfortable truths.
The Gavel captures R.U.B’s punk-hardcore sound. It begins with a hypnotic riff and repetitive ‘sanctimony’, which acts as a spell against moralistic and judgemental people. Instead of offering emotional support, they offer moral superiority, humiliation and punishment. All that is left is their own ‘holiness’ as their sole value. The band unleashes all its punk energy, forcing you to get up and raise your fist in the air.
Catch R.U.B on their UK tour this April, and if you can, make sure you’re at the LOUD WOMEN show at The Cav. Don’t miss them. It promises to be brutal.
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