In a week where the likes of Adele and Coldplay were releasing new albums, Frank Carter and the Rattlesnakes took the top ten by storm with their 4th album “Sticky”.
While remaining forever humble, it’s clear the ex-Gallows frontman has come a long way in recent years. Fans of his early career may miss the sweaty club gigs, but these days Frank has gone on to greater heights. Headlining this year’s initial post-lockdown Download Festival and long outgrown some of those beloved smaller venues.
Although as with the Southampton Guildhall gig, one thing remains constant. No matter what stage you put Frank Carter and the Rattlesnakes on, you’re in for a great show.
Frank Carter and the Rattlesnakes
As such, it was no surprise the night hit the roof right from the start. Opening with “My Town“, an eager crowd launched into the duet role on behalf of Joe Talbot (Idles) without hesitation. If the song is ever going to miss the impact of Joe’s section live, there was no chance of it happening tonight.
It was certainly a strong way to start a concert that had a lot to absorb. Including a girl only mosh pit, shoes appearing on stage out of nowhere, roses handed out to deserving individuals and guest vocalists. As well as a member of the audience downing a pint on stage and another handed a microphone to sing along to “Devil Inside of Me“.
The latter is just one of many instances Frank Carter makes a personal connection with his enthusiastic audience. At times borrowing phones to create memorable Facebook moments, at others appearing in the pit rubbing shoulders alongside those who had earlier been helping him crowd surf.
Frank Carter live at the Wedge back in 2017
Frank Carter and the Rattlesnakes – Live Review
As for the album the band are currently touring, “Sticky” was played pretty much in its entirety. Complete with support acts Cassyette and Lynks providing vocals for “Off with his Head” and “Go Get a Tattoo” respectfully, as they do on record.
However, despite the aforementioned and well-deserved top 10 slot, it would be wrong to forget about those other releases. In particular highlights including “Lullaby” (from Modern Ruin) and the awesome “Crowbar” (End of Suffering). Both of which are left until the latter part of the set.
It had been a while since Mr Teeth had been back at Southampton Guildhall. Yet despite the slightly dubious acoustics of the venue, Frank Carter nailed it regardless. Just an honest and loveable frontman, entertaining from beginning to end.
There’s still time to catch Frank Carter and the Rattlesnakes in the UK this month. After which, they head out to mainland Europe in the New Year.
