The Standard is the debut release from Jacksonville outfit Southpaw FLHC, a release I probably I would have not had on my radar if the band hadn’t crossed the 100k monthly listener threshold on Spotify. This and my love of classic hardcore piqued my interest to check out what the hype may be about.
What I found, was a debut that is about as paint-by-numbers as it gets for Beatdown Hardcore, despite it being an enjoyable punt. Southpaw make absolutely no effort to do anything or fresh on their arrival, instead focusing on executing the tried and tested approach with conviction. Fair enough. Not everything needs to be different, and breakdowns, shouted gang vocals and tough guy bullshit is still a fun combo in 2026. I have no doubt these guys will be a blast live.
I honestly don’t have a lot to say about this one – if you’ve heard a couple of beatdown hardcore records before, you’ve heard what The Standard has to offer. If you’re picking up what Southpaw are putting down, you will enjoy this, even if it won’t blow you away. I will say, even if this a sound I enjoy, it never truly goes that hard.
Southpaw’s mission statement is to “bridge the gap between old and new generations of hardcore”, and this is a competently made record that sounds good and modern. It’s awesome that this style is still popular with (presumably) younger audiences and bands like Southpaw are keeping this shit alive even if it feels like something I’ve heard dosens of times before.
SCORE: ★★★
FAVOURITE TRACK: TTG
For Fans Of: Terror, Guilt Trip, Kublai Khan TX