Gallows

Gallows are an English hardcore punk band from Watford, Hertfordshire, formed in 2005. They gained significant attention with their debut album Orchestra of Wolves, which was distributed in the United States by Epitaph Records. Their second album, Grey Britain, was released after signing a £1 million contract with Warner Bros. Records. Gallows have seen success in the UK, with songs charting on the UK Single Charts and features in magazines such as Kerrang!, Alternative Press, and Rolling Stone.

History

Formation and Orchestra of Wolves (2005–2008)

Gallows formed in 2005 and quickly released their debut album, Orchestra of Wolves, on In at the Deep End Records in 2006. The album gained the attention of Epitaph Records, who released it in the US, including new tracks such as a cover of Black Flag’s “Nervous Breakdown.” Gallows quickly garnered attention and praise, leading to extensive tours including Warped Tour 2007, South by Southwest, and Reading Festival. Their track “In the Belly of a Shark” was featured in the video game Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock.

In 2007, they won the Kerrang! Award for Best British Newcomer, and their cover of The Ruts’ “Staring at the Rude Bois” reached number 31 on the UK Singles Chart. This was followed by their US tour and being banned from performing at House of Blues in Anaheim by Disney.

Grey Britain and Departure from Warner Bros. (2008–2011)

In 2008, Gallows announced their second album Grey Britain, which was released in May 2009. The album received critical acclaim but marked a departure from their punk roots with a darker and heavier tone. They performed on the 2009 Vans Warped Tour and supported AFI on a US tour. However, by December 2009, they had parted ways with Warner Bros. Records.

Gallows continued to perform extensively, playing festivals such as Soundwave, Sonisphere, and Reading and Leeds under the pseudonym “The Rats.” In 2010, they performed at Rage Against the Machine’s victory parade at Finsbury Park.

Lineup Change and Death Is Birth (2011–2014)

In 2011, original vocalist Frank Carter left the band due to creative differences and was replaced by Wade MacNeil from Alexisonfire. MacNeil’s first release with the band was the EP Death Is Birth in December 2011. Gallows then launched their own label, Venn Records, and released their self-titled third album in 2012. Guitarist Steph Carter left the band in 2013, and Gallows continued as a four-piece band.

Desolation Sounds and Hiatus (2014–2015)

In 2014, Gallows completed their fourth studio album, Desolation Sounds, which was released in April 2015. The album marked a shift in their sound, incorporating post-punk and gothic rock elements. After completing the tour for Desolation Sounds, the band went on hiatus.

Return and Possible Reunion (2018–2023)

In 2018, Gallows teased a return with an appearance at the Slam Dunk Festival in 2019. However, following the festival, the band resumed their hiatus. In 2023, former guitarist Steph Carter hinted at the possibility of a reunion, though these plans did not materialize due to internal disagreements.

Musical Style and Influences

Gallows are known for their hardcore punk sound, though they have experimented with metalcore and post-punk elements throughout their career. The band cites influences such as Black Flag, Minor Threat, Swing Kids, The Stooges, and Discharge, among others.

Members

Final Lineup

• Laurent “Lags” Barnard – guitar, backing vocals (2005–2015, 2018–2019)
• Stuart Gili-Ross – bass guitar, backing vocals (2005–2015, 2018–2019)
• Lee Barratt – drums, percussion (2005–2015, 2018–2019)
• Wade MacNeil – lead vocals (2011–2015, 2018–2019)

Former Members

• Paul Laventure – guitar, backing vocals (2005)
• Frank Carter – lead vocals (2005–2011)
• Steph Carter – guitar, backing vocals (2006–2013)

Discography

• Orchestra of Wolves (2006)
• Grey Britain (2009)
• Gallows (2012)
• Desolation Sounds (2015)