By Maya Bishop | Febraury 20, 2026

Fresh new Brooklyn Hardcore band No Weapon has been working hard both on stages and behind the scenes on their first EP “…Shall Prosper”. Including one of the most well known drummers in the New York Hardcore scene, Nate Harris, we took the opportunity to see what goes into the inspiration behind their music, the values they hope to instill in their fans, and the things that give the band the power to keep going. With their first single “Right to Live” having released on February 20th, and signing to Grey Matter Records, the band has an exciting year ahead.

The name No Weapon obviously comes from the quote "No weapon formed against me shall prosper." What do you think drives that attitude for the band? What gives you all that sense of resilience?

Overcoming our obstacles, trauma, and daily lives. It’s always been a form of encouragement for me to get through the day/month/year knowing there is a bright side to life, even when it seems like there isn’t.

Seeing the community grow through friends and family, having that support system, and having faith in oneself.

The band debuted at Punk Island 2025. Was that intentional? Especially considering the involvement you've all had with the festival?

It was definitely intentional. I wanted to debut somewhere that made sense to me and would be the place where I know my friends and supporters would come out without any doubt. Also, seeing the work Rachel and I have put in towards the Sista Rosetta Stage, it felt right to do it where Black musicians would shine the brightest. I wanted to show not just everyone who attended but also myself the bow on my years of booking and playing in bands came to that very moment, and I felt it.

"Right to Live" deals heavily with the struggle against the domineering forces that oppress us. What kinds of actions do you wish to inspire your fans to take in the world to enforce their right to live?

I wrote “Right to Live” out of frustration with the current political landscape and the lack of urgency I see in addressing serious issues. This song expresses my desire for people to recognize the ongoing struggles Black individuals face and understand that words alone aren't enough.

Was "Right to Live" the first No Weapon song? What specific moment inspired its creation?

It was the first song. It began as a solo jam on the drums during my visits to Rivington. The lyrics developed as a response to question the powers that are setting us all up for failure.

You describe your music as "delving into the struggles and triumphs of the Black experience in America, navigating the complexities of mental health, the pervasive shadows of depression, and the intricate political landscape of our time." Do you find that degree of openness nerve-wracking? Especially considering how well-known you all are in the local NYC scene?

I still feel a wave of anxiety about it, but once I got the chance to share my message, I was amazed by how many people could relate to it. I've always struggled to accept credit for my achievements because hard work doesn't always merit praise. However, I do appreciate the support and love I've received.

As a hardcore band, do you think there's more impact to your music when your very life is intrinsically linked to the fight for socioeconomic liberation?

Hardcore has always served as the soundtrack for rebellion and standing up against the masses. We aim to communicate our message clearly and directly.

Can we expect a lot more surprises from No Weapon this year? I know the "...Shall Prosper" EP comes out soon. Anything cool coming with that?

When we perform our music live, you get a sense of what the EP will sound like. However, there might be some unexpected elements once we record it. I'm constantly brainstorming new ideas to make the sound more impactful.

What is the part of being a band that you like most? Is it the music creation, seeing how fans react, or the shows?

I would say all of the above, but creating a new song with my friends always gets me excited because it’s like “damn, we made this, and it sounds incredible.”

The moment I see people slam-dancing as soon as the intro starts, I feel an intense excitement. It reminds me of attending shows to see my favorite bands and getting active in the crowd. For me, this is the highest form of honor and praise.

Speaking of shows, you've gotten a few under your belt as No Weapon now. Is there any place you're really looking forward to playing?

Right now, I would like to see us playing out in the States. Philly is definitely one, Chicago and Cali would be some examples.

Do you have a dream No Weapon lineup? If you could play with anyone?

A dream lineup would be: Terror, End It, No Idols, Raw Brigade. Also, a band called Punch. They are a huge inspiration for me personally.

And finally, my hardest-hitting question of the interview. What’s your perfect birthday cake?

Nate: Red Velvet Cake

Anyone you’d like to shout out?

No Values, 100 Hour War, Bazooka, Lake Lanier, Fulano, Maafa, Bruisebath, Pucker Up, Xtinguish The Code, Frothing Mad, God’s Favorite, Pillowbiter, Flatwound, Born Sinner, Crike, Fishlord, and Lollirot

Band Links:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/noweaponbkhc

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/noweaponbkhc

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