Obstacle Upsurge - Neonpulse

Obstacle Upsurge is a dynamic force in Singapore’s music scene, known for their powerful fusion of punk and hardcore. With their high-energy performances and raw, unfiltered sound, the band captures the rebellious spirit of the underground music movement. Their music is characterized by fast-paced riffs, aggressive rhythms, and socially conscious lyrics that challenge the status quo.

Over the years, Obstacle Upsurge has become a staple in Singapore’s punk and hardcore community, delivering performances that resonate with fans of alternative and DIY culture. Their relentless drive to push boundaries and amplify important messages through their music cements their status as one of the most impactful bands in the local scene, inspiring both fans and fellow musicians alike.

Collaboration with Neonpulse and Lion City Rock Interview with Obstacle Upsurge

How did Obstacle Upsurge start, and what fueled your hardcore punk energy?

Obstacle Upsurge started back in 1993. It all began with a group of us just hanging out and jamming for fun, covering some of our favorite punk rock songs. The chemistry was undeniable, and after a few sessions, we realized we had something special. We decided to make it official, and from there, the rest is history.

Our energy is fueled by the desire to express ourselves and share our thoughts. Music has always been a powerful outlet for us, allowing us to voice our feelings and frustrations. It’s this passion for creative expression and the connection we feel with our audience that drives us to keep pushing the boundaries of our sound. We’re just a bunch of friends who found a way to channel our energy into something that we can connect with people.

Big O was a platform for alternative voices in Singapore — how did it shape your growth?

Big O was a great platform for us. It helped us reach more people and connect with other artists who shared our vibe.

Being part of it gave us exposure and made our band more known in the local music scene.

The supportive atmosphere let us show off our sound and message, which helped us grow as musicians. The feedback and interactions from audiences and other performers help us shape our artistic direction and boost our confidence.

What was the punk and hardcore scene like in the 90s, and how did you fit in?

In the 90s, the punk and hardcore music scene was lively but felt a bit closed off. At that time, not many people accepted or understood this genre, so the community was small but very passionate. We all wanted to express ourselves, but becoming part of the scene required a considerable effort.

As the first all-female hardcore band, we faced our own special challenges. In a mostly male space, we often had to fight for our spot and show what we could do.

There were frustrating times, but these moments also pushed us to work harder and make our voices heard. We wanted to open doors not just for ourselves but for other women musicians who felt out of place in this world.

It was hard at times, but in the end, we stayed true to our goals and built a sense of identity and strength in a scene that needed more variety. Through our music, we aimed to challenge the rules and inspire others to overcome obstacles too.

What was the wildest show or most unforgettable moment in Obstacle Upsurge’s history?

One of the unforgettable shows in Obstacle Upsurge’s history took place in Damansara Jaya, Kuala Lumpur, back in the 90s, where we had the incredible opportunity to share the stage with all-female bands.

The energy was electric, and the crowd was not just larger; it was a lively crowd of excited fans, far exceeding what we were accustomed to. The loud cheers and excitement made the place feel alive and full of energy.

It was truly an unforgettable experience to perform with such talented bands, taking the stage throughout the concert. The overwhelmingly positive response from the audience, whose excitement and support elevated the entire performance to an extraordinary level, made it even more special.

Did mainstream audiences ever accept hardcore punk, or was it always underground? What do you think of today’s hardcore scene in Singapore?

The hardcore scene has always been underground in Singapore from the start but over time, things have changed a bit. As more people learned about the genre through media, live concerts, and cultural sharing, some parts of hardcore punk started to break into the mainstream.

We can see more people appreciating its energy and message. It’s exciting to watch how the genre has changed while still keeping its underground roots.

How does it feel to be playing for this anniversary gig? What’s one thing today’s younger bands can learn from the DIY punk scene of the 90s. Any plans for future releases or gigs? A shoutout to hardcore fans who have kept the scene alive?

We’re really excited to be part of this anniversary event and to perform with legendary bands. This isn’t just about the music; it shows how much those who came before us have inspired us. We can’t wait to share our music on this special night and connect with both the other performers and the audience.

Today’s young bands can learn a lot from the DIY punk scene of the 90s about teamwork and being independent. It’s about finding your own path, using what you have, and making connections in your local music community.

A massive shoutout to all the hardcore fans out there! Your passion and dedication are what keep this scene alive and thriving. We appreciate every mosh pit, every shout-along, and every moment you spend supporting us and all the bands. You are the heart and soul of this community! Thank you for being with us on this journey.