Rock CD

Gallows, Orchestra of Wolves

3 out of 5 3
Gallows, Orchestra of Wolves

Less than a year ago, Gallows were touring the UK hardcore punk circuit, and no matter how huge the excitement they created within that small scene, they seemed set for a niche existence. But hysterical championing by Kerrang! and NME saw the Watford five-piece become the subject of an industry bidding war. In truth, Orchestra of Wolves - initially released independently last autumn - doesn't sound as if it will recoup the reputed £1m Warners has spent on Gallows. It's so unrelenting the neutral will struggle to find points of purchase, and unreconstructed hardcore like this - it's a long way from Green Day - has never converted into commercial success. Guitars churn and drums thunder satisfyingly, but Frank Carter's lyrics - supposedly a cut above normal punk fare - are incomprehensible without a lyric sheet. By the album's close, the adrenalin stirred by the likes of Abandon Ship has given way to a slight weariness at being shouted at for half an hour.

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