KEN mode

KEN mode is a noise rock band from Winnipeg, Canada, incorporating elements of metal and hardcore in their music.

The band’s name, KEN mode, is derived from the phrase "Kill Everyone Now," a term attributed to Black Flag frontman Henry Rollins, describing a specific performance mindset. Brothers Jesse Matthewson and Shane Matthewson, both classically trained at the Royal Conservatory of Music and holding business degrees, founded the band and have remained central figures throughout its existence.

Emerging in the early 2000s during a peak period for chaotic hardcore music, KEN mode gained recognition in underground music circles. They released several notable albums throughout the 2010s, including "Venerable" (2011), produced by Kurt Ballou; "Entrench" (2013), produced by Matt Bayles; "Success" (2015), produced by Steve Albini; and "Loved" (2018), produced by Andrew Schneider.

KEN mode has toured extensively, sharing stages with bands such as Russian Circles, Torche, Deafheaven, Norma Jean, Kylesa, Pelican, Daughters, Revocation, Full of Hell, Inter Arma, Today is the Day, and Birds In Row. They have performed at various major music festivals including SXSW, Hellfest Open Air, CMJ Festival, Pitchfork Festival Chicago, Hopscotch Festival, and Roadburn Festival. Additionally, the band has participated in live sessions for media outlets such as BBC Radio 1 and Daytrotter.