Gallows – ‘Desolation Sounds’ In Review
Catharsis has always been at the forefront of the Gallows approach to writing records. The subject of this catharsis has varied from LP to LP. Whether it’s topics such as the individualistic issues on Orchestra of Wolves (did someone mention dentistry?), or the more politically incensed lyrics of Grey Britain and the self titled LP. Fact is, they’ve always made what is making their blood boil clear.
These themes have always been emphasised by the meticulously urgent nature of their music’s aesthetic. It’s this integral element of Gallows that it pains me to say is too often overlooked; eclipsed by the reputation of the live show and the now subsided media hysteria.
But in the absence of hysteria, the sonically cathartic aesthetic that makes Gallows’ music brilliant has been allowed to flourish on the latest LP.
These are my picks from Desolation Sounds:
‘Mystic Death’:
‘You need to be afraid, as life’s luxe dulls, everyone leaves.’ The opening track that engages the descent into the vibe of Desolation Sounds.
All the old familiars are on display. Wade howls the above lyrics as a man possessed over the iconic high pitched squeals of Lags’ riffage. The chorus conjures up the same muster of previous LP’s ‘Last June’ with severe shout along potential.
By the closing of the track, I found myself convulsing forwards and back barking ‘MYSTIC DEEEEATTTTH!’, completely encumbered by the serrated cacophony of noise created. A marvellous Gallows album introduction if ever there was one.
‘Chains’:
Here lies the meat of what makes this latest LP astonishing. Sitting comfortably at track four, any fan service has been dealt with (see ‘Desolation Sounds’ and ‘Leviathan Rot’), meaning artistic integrity can be brought to the forefront. This track is an auditory representation of desolation.
A discrete sensation of haunting dread is accumulated through the eerie reverb guitar sound and Helena Coan’s vocals before the predicted cascade of distortion. Unlike other tracks that deploy these tactics however, this drop does not rile you. Instead you find yourself disconcertingly pacified.
This feeling is emphasised by the continuation of the tracks drudging and marching beat throughout, and does not relent ’til the final sounds of feedback. ‘Chains’ isn’t pleasant listening, but it’s more than worth your time.
‘Leather Crown’:
A track that echoes ‘Chains’ disdain but with catchier hooks. The main bulk of the track’s instrumental section (2 minutes in) is reminiscent of the previous LP’s track ‘Nations/Never Enough’. Meaning that it’s crushingly anti-euphoric nature is well on display. A must have for those looking for the darker material.
‘Cease to Exist’:
Maybe it’s just because my flatmate and I have been listening to a lot of Blur’s introspective material recently, but this track emulates a very similar musical progression for Gallows.
Other than perhaps ‘The Vulture Part 1′ – which I am dismissing due to it’s malevolent vibe – this track, for the first time, demonstrates Gallows’ ability to strip back the aggression and present something relaxingly beautiful in spite of its pessimistic lyrics.
I can see myself sipping on a tinny in the great British summer to this chilled track. As such, I would recommend this ditty to those who abhor the usual canon of Gallows.
Gallows, as you would expect are gearing up to tour this record with a small selection of shows planned with Baby Godzilla and Creeper. Check them out, they haven’t let me down once. More information can be found on their Facebook page.
Tour Dates:
May 22 – Cathouse, Glasgow
May 23 – Slam Dunk Festival (North), Leeds
May 24 – Slam Dunk Festival (South), Hatfield
May 25 – Slam Dunk Festival (Midlands), Wolverhampton
May 26 – THE GARAGE, London
May 27 – Sound Control, Manchester
#StayFresh
