There’s something very cool about catching a band early on as they first start to figure out their stride.
In the world of hardcore, punk, and underground metal, PR can only go so far. This is a scene built on word-of-mouth, packed rooms, high energy, and community. The next wave doesn’t arrive with a marketing campaign. It shows up with anger and sweat equity. That’s exactly where rejector. is finding themselves right now.
Selected as the opening act for the very first No Co$t Showcase; a stacked, completely free show built to give back to the Little Rock scene, rejector. represents what this whole thing is about: new voices, new energy, and a reminder that this scene only stays alive if we keep passing the torch.
We caught up with the band ahead of tonight’s show to talk about their origins, their sound, and what it means to create music for people who’ve never quite felt like they fit anywhere else.
For our music scene to thrive, it’s important that newer and younger bands keep getting amplified to keep things alive. They can continue to be passed down to the next generation of the scene and keep things going. For No Cost, it was important to put on a new local band as the opener, without much exposure to the Little Rock hardcore scene. This will be a recurring theme with No Cost showcases. How does it feel to be the first band to be selected for that spot?
It’s such an honor to be selected for this showcase! When we found out about it, we were so grateful and excited about this opportunity. We really believe that these showcases are what’s needed to keep the local scene alive and thriving!
The first No Cost showcase is cool because it’s a huge, stacked lineup, but it’s completely free. Do you guys think it’s important to have some music that’s free and accessible to everyone? And if so, why?
This is a one-of-a-kind event where people can see some of the state’s best bands for free. Now who does that nowadays? It’s important to give people a chance to experience music in this way. Look at the price of gas, living expenses, or anything like that! Inflation is kicking us all when we’re already down. It’s just important to give back.
Is there any band you’re looking forward to playing with at the showcase?
We really look forward to playing with all these bands! Each of us has seen most of these bands play, so it’ll be exciting to perform and watch them on the same night.
Here at PULSE, much of our work is rooted in community and mutual aid. Many of us feel rejected by societal norms and turn to our local scene for acceptance and for a sense of belonging. Do you think community plays a role in the local music scene, and if so, how?
What you said right there is exactly why we call ourselves rejector. We believe that societal pressure and norms should not define who you are. Many of the songs we have written explore the pressure, rage, and love that make us who we are as human beings. It’s also why we use a lowercase “r” and a period in the name. We don’t want to start like the capital, but we want to end like a period. If that makes any sense. The music scene and music in general have helped each of us so much, and it’s because we’re a huge family! Local music, I think, gives you the easiest way to get to know people who will accept you and meet so many different people with the same interests! This is so important in today’s world.
Speaking of community, do you guys have any Arkansas bands you’d like to shout out? Maybe some bands you’ve played with or that you just think deserve more recognition.
We would love to shout out Scars Tell Stories, and We Do Not Belong Here. Those are two bands that have always been supportive of us, and we are very grateful to have played with them.
What’s next on the agenda for Rejector? Any other upcoming shows or new music that you’re stoked about?
Right now, we’re booked through June, and we plan to have our first EP released by then! After June, we’re going to continue writing. We have a show in Fayetteville at Nomads on 4/12, Vino’s on 5/2, Feed ‘n Seed in Lafayette, LA on 5/23, and Full Moon on 5/30. We get to finally tour the northwest and out of state for the first time during this mini tour.
rejecter.
rejecter.
Stan: Are there any closing words you’d like to end with?
rejector.: We hope that our music inspires, reminds, and encourages people to be who they want to be. Act how you want to act and make the world a better place by being you. Reject what society makes you feel and reject the societal pressure that comes with being human. We live in a world where we are told to dress this way, talk this way, and look this way. Fuck them. rejecter. is always a DM away if you’re ever feeling lost or confused. We appreciate everyone who has gotten us to this point and everything that comes after. Life is precious… reject the negative.
