Twelve sold out venues across the UK for the tour and three top class rock bands; this is set to be an extremely exciting two weeks for both Frank Carter and the UK punk rock scene. Up first for this thrilling trio is the Waterfront in Norwich, so let’s see how high Norfolk can set the bar.
First up are Blackpool rockers Strange Bones, who have the unenviable task of having to deliver a decent set to a half-empty venue that is largely unfazed. Fortunately their loud and abrasive sound manages to turn a few heads as they deliver politically charged tunes that pack a punch with sleazy riffs that are impossible not to nod your head to. Their sound is a wonderful mix of high energy rock n’ roll that is both nostalgic and fresh; think the bounce of Led Zeppelin at their heaviest, meets the fuzz bass tones of Death From Above 1979 and Slaves. Setting the tone for the evening, this is a band brimming with charisma and confidence as front-man Bob convinces the crowd to move forward as he stage dives during the laddish and exceptionally catchy closer ‘God Save The Teen’.
Having been enthralled by Brighton based Yonaka during the summer of 2016, I was eager to see how one of alternative rock’s exciting new names have progressed as they recently signed to a major label (Asylum/Atlantic Records) and spent time on the road headlining tours. From start to finish, the now packed out venue are captivated by their gloomy tribal pop sound that is both tight and raw. Front-woman Theresa Jarvis’ operatic vocals soar across the room flawlessly through angsty pop tracks such as new single ‘Drongo’ with a performance that is both sultry and powerful. ‘Run’ is a highlight of the set with giant drawn out guitars and a surprising tempo change between verse and chorus, and closer ‘Ignorance’ builds to a fast paced crescendo that leaves the room itching for more. With such a short catalog of music released into the world, it is impressive to see the buzz around this band; and extremely exciting to see what the future holds for them.
Moments before Frank Carter and the Rattlesnakes take to the stage, there is a surge of bodies moving towards the front hilariously singing Smash Mouth’s ‘All Star’. Regardless of this seemingly random occurrence, it is clear that Norwich is ready for the next hour of energetic live music.
If there is one way of describing tonight’s set, it is pure chaos. As Frank and his band-mates Dean Richardson (guitars), Tom Barclay (bass) and Gareth Grover (drums) open with the monstrous ‘Snake Eyes’ it is clear why Frank is revered as one of the most iconic front-men in the industry as his presence is urgent and energetic, albeit with a touch of class in a pinstripe suit and far greater control over his vocal range than in previous projects (Gallows, Pure Love). As Frank and Dean are held up by the crowd during the opener and mosh pits break out left to right, the sense of community and bond between band and crowd is resilient from the word go; this is an audience who truly get it. After second song and punk anthem ‘Trouble’, Frank is quick to inform the audience that they have released two records in two years and thanks them for selling out each date of the tour; this is undeniably an incredible accomplishment.
This evening feels like a culmination of many things; the blend of songs performed from both records ‘Blossom’ and ‘Modern Ruin’ work seamlessly together despite being quite different records sonically. Furthermore, this is Frank mixing the aggression and the melody in a perfect balance as his voice variates from raging in aggression to buttery smooth. Newer tracks in the set such as the singles ‘Wild Flowers’ and the Sabbath esque stomper ‘Lullaby’ are executed flawlessly by the band and straddle the line between having some bite and still being accessible enough to more casual radio listeners. There is a contrast in pace throughout, as Frank addresses the audience in a calm sincere manner, encouraging them to look after one another as they counterbalance ferocious tracks such as ‘Fangs’ with more delicate cuts such as ‘Neon Rust’.
Just as the sold out audience appear exhausted dripping in sweat, the band begin the opening notes of their final song ‘I Hate You’, the direct filthy anthem that may entail one of the most profane choruses to ever be yelled in unison at a full capacity venue, it’s simply brilliant!
The three bands that have played tonight bring a different flavor of passion and emotion within the punk rock genre; and have proven that it is alive and well in 2017. If you’re a fan of all things gritty and catchy, be sure to keep a close eye on all three of these bands.
Frank Carter showcases variety to illustrate punk rocks' importance in the music industry in 2017
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