Knuckledust

Knuckledust are a hardcore and metalcore group from North London, London, United Kingdom. They form in 1996 and remain active. The band starts with Nic, Ray, Wema and Pierre, and the line-up stays stable as the same four people through the years. Ray Bussey and Pelbu are among the members associated with the group.

Formation and early scene work

Knuckledust begin at a time when London has limited support for hardcore and heavier music, despite a number of bands already playing in the area. The group and other bands of the same period help build the scene by organising shows for each other, contributing to the growth of hardcore in London and across the UK. As that scene expands, Knuckledust start to receive larger shows alongside acts such as Agnostic Front, Warzone, Madball, the Misfits and other hardcore punk and metal bands.

Releases and label history

Following the release of their first mini CD and 7-inch in 1997, the band secure their first album deal with Blackfish Records in 1999. Their album Time Won't Heal This... is licensed by a US label in 1998 after continuing sales in Europe, and the record is regarded as a success in the UK, even if it does not yet reach a wider European market. In 2002, Knuckledust sign with Gangstyle Records, which leads into a new phase for the band.

Tours and wider activity

By the time they complete the Easpak Resistance Tour in 2003, Knuckledust are established as one of Europe’s better-known hardcore acts. They tour with Blood For Blood, Suicidal Tendencies, Stampin' Ground, Sworn Enemy, The Business and Hatebreed. Alongside their band activity, they also take part in other groups and help run a record label.