This weekend I was lucky enough to see Frank Carter and the Rattlesnakes perform twice, both in very different circumstances and it really struck a cord with me as it not only embodied the true feeling and ethics of the DIY scene but it really showed that the idea of a true Rock Star is very much alive and well!
The band have used this week as a way of frantically promoting their Brand New album ‘Modern Ruin’ with a series of shows and appearances all over the UK (well mainly in London and Herts) and with the album self released on Frank’s International Death Cult label it was organized and executed by the man and his band which in its self is an incredible feat. I caught them on Day 1 of their 2 day takeover of Tattoo studio and Artspace Sang Bleu which is apparently where Franks first gig in a band was many years ago and was the latest album got its name due to an Exhibition that was held there at the time. Basically, this place quite clearly means a lot to Frank and it was here that he resided for 2 days Tattooing, selling the new album and playing one of the best shows I have ever witnessed him play (and I have seen many over the years since my first time seeing the Gallows in 2004).
From the moment they exploded onto the very small stage Frank was on fire, despite having the dreaded Man Flu he screamed his tits off, thrashed around like an idiot and crowd surfed and roof walked his way to victory. So many brilliant lines and memorable things happened during this show it really was a reminder of how incredible a frontman this guy is and truly big things are no doubt coming now the new album has hit the world. 2 of the best moments of the 45 minute set were firstly the MASSIVE circle pit that was created for the new song ‘Jackals’ where it exited the front door of the shop, went round the entire block and came back in through the back door of the venue which was something a lot of people never expected to see. Secondly he made a call for more Female crowdsurfers as Women really feel as if they cannot get involved as much as Men and he wants his young Daughter to feel as if she can “rock out” as much as the next person. Cue loads of girls getting involved and getting thrown all over the venue for the next 3 minutes which was a really poignant but manic moment.
The second of the shows could not have been any further from Friday’s performance as it was the complete polar opposite in every way. Yes it was at another small venue (Watford’s LP Cafe) but it was a more chilled out affair, with an acoustic performance, reading of Lyrics and poetry written by Frank and everyone sat down on the floor quietly and in awe like it was some type of “Leonard Cohen type shit”.
This showed a completely different side of Frank Carter with his stories being very reflective and really quite personal yet he was completely relaxed despite still suffering with the dreaded Man Flu! It was this personable and much less frantic side of the man that once again proves that he is a cut above the rest of today’s rock frontmen and is why this guy is likely to be doing this for many years to come.
As you can no doubt tell from this somewhat gushing little bit of writing I have put down here I had a great time at both of these shows and it truly reminded me all the best things about the true DIY scene, from the way this record was released to the feeling and passion that it creates not only to the people that write the music but to the fans that are part of the whole release process.
LONG LIVE DIY!!
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