Back in 2016, when the UK’s damp air first wrapped itself around me, I stumbled upon a sound so ferocious, it felt like a sonic uppercut. “Juggernaut” by Frank Carter & the Rattlesnakes was a revelation—imagine Quicksand’s grit, Lamb of God’s fury, and Fugazi’s defiant edge all mashed into one. It was more than music; it was a call to arms. Carter’s live performances elevated this fury, with a presence so intense it could ignite a fire in the rain. The man was angry, and his music was the storm.
Fast forward to the embrace of 2024, and Frank Carter has done what few dare—he’s swung the pendulum from fury to finesse, embodying a transformation akin to the Arctic Monkeys’ genre-defying leaps. Donning the mantle of a big band leader, Carter croons with a finesse that belies his punk roots, showcasing a creative evolution that is as unexpected as it is captivating. The latest record, Dark Rainbows, is nothing short of brilliant, a testament to Carter’s unyielding drive to explore and expand his musical landscape.
Dark Rainbows marks a significant shift in Frank Carter’s musical direction, showcasing his vocal talents amid broader, more experimental soundscapes. This departure from the intense, raw energy of his past work is evident in standout tracks like “Honey,” which combines catchy melodies with a depth of emotion and a distinctive ’80s new wave feel, and “Man of the Hour” which introduces a ’70s AM radio vibe, adding a slow jam feel to the album.
These tracks speak to a more refined artistic vision, highlighting the band’s willingness to explore different musical eras. However, this change has not been universally praised. While some listeners appreciate the experimentation, others miss the direct, aggressive edge that characterized the Rattlesnakes’ earlier music, criticizing the album’s slow start and its focus on atmosphere over guitar-driven rock.
Nevertheless, Carter’s willingness to experiment, to challenge both himself and his audience, mirrors the artistic journey of legends like Mike Patton. Remember when Faith No More would seamlessly shift between hard-core numbers and jazz-inspired crooners? I think the same thing is happening here in a sense, but with the Rattlesnakes’ signature all over it. This evolution, while it may divide, undeniably enriches the tapestry of rock music, offering a fresh perspective that commands attention.
The Roundhouse show was an engaging display of Frank Carter’s musical journey. The setlist, divided into four compelling acts, featured 22 songs, with eight from the latest album drawing particular attention. “Juggernaut” was a striking contrast amidst the new material, serving as a powerful reminder of the band’s heavier origins. This juxtaposition highlighted the range of the band’s repertoire. Adding to the evening’s excitement, Primal Scream’s Bobby Gillespie made a guest appearance for “Original Sin” from 2021’s *Sticky*, further enriching the night with a blend of past and present sounds.
In a world where artists often tread water, fearful of the currents of change, Frank Carter & the Rattlesnakes dive headfirst into the unknown. *Dark Rainbows* and its live manifestation at the Roundhouse remind us that evolution is not just about survival—it’s about thriving, about daring to dream in technicolor in a world that often prefers black and white. This performance was not just a concert; it was a statement—a declaration that Frank Carter will not be pigeonholed, will not stagnate.
