Speed Clinches Inaugural NSW Music Prize
The bustling music scene in New South Wales has a new milestone to celebrate as Speed, the flute-wielding hardcore band from Sydney, clinches the inaugural New South Wales Music Prize. The award, paired with a substantial $80,000 prize, recognizes the bold energy and creative risk embedded in Speed’s debut album, Only One Mode, released in 2024. This win marks a high-profile moment for a young band that defies genre conventions and brings a distinctive, audience-gripping sound to the Australian underground and beyond.
What the Prize Represents
The New South Wales Music Prize was introduced by the state government to spotlight exceptional musical talent across a range of genres, from indie rock to electronic, and from experimental to traditional forms. The prize aims to support artists in turning creative ideas into fully realized projects, enabling touring, production upgrades, or new recording opportunities. By awarding $80,000 to Speed, the prize committee underscored the vitality of experimental acts and the potential for a local scene to influence national and international listening habits.
Only One Mode: A Debut with a Distinct Voice
Only One Mode, Speed’s debut album, has drawn attention for its fearless fusion of hardcore ferocity with unexpected melodic hooks and a flute-driven motif that threads through many tracks. The band’s approach blends high-energy rhythms, technical precision, and an unapologetically bold aesthetic. Critics have described the record as a manifesto of spontaneity and controlled chaos, pushing listeners to re-evaluate what post-hardcore can sound like in the 2020s. The album’s reception among fans and critics alike helped the award committee recognize Speed as a standout act in a competitive field.
The Winning Moment
At a ceremony that gathered industry reps, peers, and local music supporters, Speed accepted the prize with a performance that mirrored the album’s charged spirit. This moment underscored the band’s message: that ambition paired with technical craft can redefine a scene. The $80,000 prize not only validates the hard work behind Only One Mode but also provides a runway for Speed to expand their reach—through recording time, tour expenses, and enhanced production capabilities for future projects.
Impacts for the NSW Music Community
The award signals a broader commitment to nurturing diverse voices in New South Wales. For emerging artists, Speed’s victory can inspire more bold experiments, cross-genre collaborations, and local shows that push audiences beyond familiar sounds. The prize also highlights the importance of arts funding in sustaining long-term careers for musicians who may not fit traditional commercial models but who contribute richly to the cultural fabric of the region.
What’s Next for Speed?
With the prize behind them, Speed will likely channel the momentum into new material and expanded live performances. Fans can anticipate more intricate arrangements, potential touring across Australia and beyond, and opportunities to collaborate with other artists who share their appetite for experimentation. As the music industry evolves, the band’s blend of flute-led textures and hardcore intensity could become a blueprint for future projects that prioritize originality without compromising energy.
Why This Win Matters
The inaugural NSW Music Prize doesn’t just reward a single album; it acknowledges a cultural moment. Speed’s triumph demonstrates how local scenes can produce work with universal appeal, inviting listeners from all backgrounds to engage with music that challenges conventions. It’s a reminder that when institutions invest in innovative voices, audiences gain a richer, more diverse sonic landscape.
