Interview: Gallows

Gallows are fast-approaching the year anniversary of a dramatic line-up change which saw Alexisonfire alum Wade McNeil replace former lead singer Frank Carter. The post-hardcore punks have a reputation built on unbridled aggression, supercharged riffs and blood, and it's a pleasure to see that hasn't changed a bit. We catch up with Wade to find out how they've become stronger, what the festival season holds and an insight into the 'violent' new album...

Bearded: It's been nearly a year since Frank left. How has the band evolved in the months following his departure?

Wade: Gallows have become a gang. We're all in this together- it's everyone's band or it's noone's band.

B: How has the new creative influence of Wade shaped the sound of Gallows?

W: Being a songwriter myself has changed the sound a bit. Mostly, I tried to challenge the boys at every turn. I wanna listen to this record twenty-five years from now and remember why we were so mad at the world.

B: You have named your third album, Gallows, due for release in September. What should we expect from it?

W: Expect it to be the most calculated burst of violence the band has released to date.

B: Are there any tracks you're particularly proud of?

W: There isn't a song I'm not proud of. Lyrically I'd say ‘Cross of Lorraine’ is something I'd consider a step above. It is a love song which I think is the toughest thing a songwriter can do with any sincerity.

B: The video for ‘Last June’ has just dropped and it seems pretty politically charged. What are you trying to say?

W: On the surface it's 'All Coppers Are Bastards'. On a deeper level it deals with the nightmare that Toronto turned into during the G20 summit.

B: How has the live reaction been to the line-up change and the new material?

W: It's been cool. People have their reservations. But I like going on stage every night knowing people are wondering what's gonna happen. I want the end of every set to be like a prison riot and it usually is.

B: You've got a plethora of festivals ahead of you. Which ones are you looking forward to most?

W: West Coast Riot in Sweden. We play with Rancid, Turbonegro, Anti Flag, Against Me! Street Dogs. Doesn't get any better than that!

B: Bestival sees you shares the bill with Sigur Rós, Stevie Wonder and Frank Ocean, who are all distinctly separated from your sound. Are you apprehensive that the crowd might be slightly different to what you're used to, or are you going to relish the opportunity?

W: It's always a pleasure to play with an eclectic group of bands. A lot of people go through life in a haze. We are gonna wake some of them up that day.

You've got a massive tour to embark upon, any surprises in store?

W: Everyday on tour is a different set victories and disasters. You never know what's gonna happen.

B: What does the rest of 2012 hold for Gallows?

We are putting our new record out in September then hitting the road.