Since his time fronting the hardcore band Gallows, Frank Carter has established himself as a figurehead of modern British punk-rock. His current project, Frank Carter & the Rattlesnakes is among the most lively and exciting live acts in the UK.
On previous albums they have regularly tackled subjects such as mental health and toxic masculinity. Their last effort – 2021’s Sticky – was a free-spirted affair, cutting loose after the containment of the lockdowns of the previous year.
Having honed a streamlined, yet powerful, sound heavily tinged with punk and hardcore, combined with Carter’s unmistakable venom and wit: the troupe return with Dark Rainbow, marking out a claim for their most nuanced album yet.
Where their previous albums stayed within in the boundaries of their alternative/punk rock wheelhouse, Dark Rainbow is coloured by gothic tones. Meanwhile, Carter often turns the lens on himself, self-analysing his place as a frontman and his relationships.
Lead single “Man of the Hour” sees Carter put himself under the microscope, examining what it means to be such a prominent figure and rockstar. Coupled with a huge chorus, it will surely have festival crowds singing back word for word.
Elsewhere, “Can I Take You Home?” and “Brambles” bring in an aura of moody gloom. The latter in particular twisting and swaying as Carter’s vocals layer and play over each other. Meanwhile, personal highlight “Superstar” erupts from a murky and ominous verse into an anthemic, yet sombre, chorus with ripping huge chords.
But the plaudits must be shared, as guitarist Dean Richardson continues to shine too. As ever he employs creative, rich palette of tones and heavy, fuzzed distortion. In particular, he takes the spotlight on “Happier Days” with guitar lines and melodies that Josh Homme would be proud of.
Overall, this is without doubt the most self-explorative and thoughtful offering from Frank Carter and The Rattlesnakes. Where it falls down, though, is that it would be nice to have more depth – the 11 tracks whizz by with only the closing “A Dark Rainbow” going over four minutes. However, with the new touches Dark Rainbow stands as arguably their most inventive yet, with a cinematic, at times dramatic, feel and captivating introspection.
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