Gallows cover

Gallows

Gallows · 2012

32 min · 11 tracks · hardcore punk

A raw, aggressive blend of hardcore punk energy and darkly introspective lyrics that challenges societal norms.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Victim Culture — This opening track sets a confrontational tone with its blistering riffs and pointed commentary on societal apathy, encapsulating the album's core themes.
  • →
    Everybody Loves You (When You're Dead) — With its catchy hooks and relentless pace, this track critiques superficial relationships while showcasing the band's ability to blend aggression with melody.
  • →
    Cult of Mary — This track stands out for its haunting atmosphere and lyrical depth, exploring themes of worship and idolization in a compelling way that resonates deeply.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

48 /100
Foothills
Higher than 19% of albums we've rated

The album showcases a blend of aggressive energy and introspective lyrics, marking a shift in the band's sound post-vocalist change.

What we noticed

  • The first track opens with a fast-paced guitar riff that sets an aggressive tone, which is maintained through the first half of the album.
  • Several tracks feature abrupt tempo changes, shifting from high-energy sections to slower, more introspective moments.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • frenzied bursts of energy
  • short, explosive track lengths
  • sardonic lyrics with sharp wit
  • cathartic release through aggression

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer lengthy, gradual builds
  • seek soothing, mellow sounds

Where this album fits

Career context
Gallows released their self-titled album in 2012 as their third studio effort, following the departure of original vocalist Frank Carter. This album marked a pivotal moment for the band as they sought to redefine their sound and identity with new frontman Wade MacNeil, transitioning into a more melodic yet still ferocious approach.
Stylistic neighbors
Converge· The Chariot· Every Time I Die

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Victim Culture 2:55
  • 2 Everybody Loves You (When You're Dead) 2:21
  • 3 Last June 2:41
  • 4 Outsider Art 3:24
  • 5 Vapid Adolescent Blues 3:04
  • 6 Austere 2:29
  • 7 Depravers 2:53
  • 8 Odessa 2:32
  • 9 Nations - Never Enough 3:34
  • 10 Cult of Mary 3:03
  • 11 Cross of Lorraine 3:12

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata