Gallows are back with a new self-titled album, shortly after receiving some criticism in recent times after replacing their former frontman Frank Carter with new frontman Wade MacNeil (ex-Alexisonfire).
The album begins with the opening track ‘Victim Culture’ which begins with an eery intro in the form of a woman’s voice, before exploding into a gang vocal frenzy. It is the perfect beginning to a hardcore punk record containing an extremely catchy chorus, which is accompanied by scintillating riffs and heavy tones throughout to give a perfect platform for the rest of the album.
The momentum continues to build through ‘Everybody Loves You’ and ‘Last June’ with gang vocals, riffs and bass lines reminiscent of older Gallows works. Wade’s vocals seem to blend perfectly to the fast nature of the songs. ‘Outsider Art’ and ‘Vapid Adolescent Blues’ are both energetic numbers,continuing the theme of mixing gang vocals and aggressive vocals with riotous riffs. The first half of the album contains many hooks which makes it extremely enjoyable to listen to as well as being able to appreciate the excellent instrumentation.
There is no lack of energy, and momentum continues to the very end of the album thanks to the likes of ‘Depravers’ and ‘Cross of Lorraine’ which maintains the consistent sound and never ending energy that is present throughout the album.
MacNeil’s vocals are a particular highlight of the album, complementing the powerful sound that Gallows produce instrumentally. MacNeil’s vocals tell me that he is back and is raring to kick start his future in Gallows, the vocals are a crucial element to Gallows new Hardcore Punk sound they have produced which is very reminiscent of hardcore punk heroes Comeback Kid. This album should lay the perfect platform for a very successful UK tour next month.
Not everyone is going to be a fan of the album, some will have preference of Frank Carter whose vocals created the refreshing new British punk sound after the release of ‘Orchestra of Wolves’ back in 2006. Gallows fans should remain loyal to the band because there is no doubting the exciting impact of Wade’s vocal talent which has contribution of creating a very energetic, punchy and perfectly delivered self-titled album. It will I’m sure, benefit Gallows in the long term and secure their future as a successful band.
Rating - 4/5
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