Sunday, 20 March 2011

Gallows- Millennium Music Hall. 22nd November 2010

As a self confessed pop lover I was slightly apprehensive about seeing Gallows. I was aware of their earlier releases and really liked that latest album, however I was slightly hesitant when it came to seeing them live; I’m not one for mosh pits and had heard their gigs were famed for them.

Preceded by British bands Crossbreaker and 33, Gallows kicked off their set with The Riverbank which merged beautiful into the skilfully renamed Cardiff is the Reason, sending the crowd into a mayhem of admiration. The witty banter in between songs was amusing but compelling, and really showed how much the band respected their fans and how they’ve stuck with them through their recent split from their label.

This was also evident when, during Abandon Ship, lead singer Frank Carter, jumped into the middle of the pit and spent the rest of the night performing among the crowd. As the night progressed, the pit grew wider and the antics wilder; at one point a large human pyramid was formed in the centre, whilst the pit engulfed most the room. Closing with their 2008 album’s title track, Orchestra of Wolves, Gallows proved that they were still on top form, sending the crowd into carnage. Such a shame their set was so short; the crowd could have continued into the early hours, if permitted.

I have to admit I was pleasantly surprised by the bands energetic and engaging set and their love for crowd interaction. You spend the night moshing along, wondering what crazy thing thing Carter will suggest next. Overall, they are a band whose excellence is enhanced the more you join in. Brilliant night, brilliant band.

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