“No matter what your favourite music is, it should be played with passion” – Frank Carter, (lead vocals).
Gallows are so huge right now and are growing, fast. For starters, the band is massively supported by Kerrang whom have been quoted describing Gallows as ‘The most important UK punk band since The Clash‘. Secondly, they�ve recently been signed by Warner Bros for an impressive four-album contract under which this album ‘Orchestra of Wolves’ has been re-issued, not to mention numerous glowing reviews. In addition, they’re also currently situated at Number 5 on MTV2�s Rock Top 10, and Number 8 on The Observer Music Monthlys ’25 Acts You Must See This Summer’. Impressive, to say the least!
Despite all of the positivity surrounding Gallows, I was dubious as to whether it would be too heavy. Worries aside and first song in, ‘Kill The Rhythm� rocks the speakers for just over two and a half minutes with enough anarchic energy to give you the overwhelming desire to smash ornaments, break some windows and maybe throw around a chair or two. ‘Abandon Ship’ shortly follows and provides exactly the kind of high-octane Brit-Punk you could hope to be reeling from, and damn it feels good.
The best thing about Carter’s raw, shouting vocals is that it’s a great compromise between screamo vocals and singing, meaning that you can gather enough of the quality lyrics to shout and spit them along in time- just don’t expect your parents to like it. Saying that, one of the main appeals of this band is that they don�t mince words. There are no fillers in the album, nor do they censor any lyrics. They are pure, raw, offensive and pack songs with enough power and aggression to hit like a blow to the ribs.
The bonus CD consists of nine tracks, six of which are live BBC Punk/Rock session along with three extra beauties, ‘Sick Of Feeling Sick’, ‘Black Heart Queen’ and Black Flag Cover �Nervous Breakdown�. You can prepare to expect more of the same, just less polished and arguably better for it. Gallows are a band to take note of right now. Others too shall be converted, many will be inspired and judging by the sound quality and blistering energy radiating off of the bonus CD, one to definitely check out live. These CDs make Paramore�s ‘Riot!’ look more like a tea party.
“If the crowd don’t fear for their safety, we’re doing something wrong!” – Frank Carter.
Prepare for sweat, blood and bruises.
Carolyn