Cancer Bats / Gallows / Black Ships / Round 2

Round 2 opened with a generic tough guy hardcore routine, which was predictable and boring. Lead vocalist Tygui looked like Vanilla Ice in his nu-metal phase and had a vocal tone like Vito Corleone from The Godfather. Thankfully up next were locals Black Ships, notoriously the "loudest band in Montreal.” With more amps than band members, Black Ships were a wall of sound built from thick angular guitars that dabbled in progressive melodies. Last time I saw this band, they were a more stripped three-piece. Now a four-piece, these ambitious locals have earned their reputation. Gallows replaced This is Hell on the tour at the last minute. This change likely brought out quite a few curious fans who wouldn’t have went to the show other than to see if Gallows’ live show lived up to their terrifying track record. Unfortunately Gallows’ insanity was stalled, as the band had a tired start and appeared lifeless onstage. Their rendition of Black Flag’s "Nervous Breakdown” managed to finally ruffle the audience and get the room interested. "Orchestra of Wolves” got the room dancing, but shoddy sound kept the show from being consistent. Lead vocalist Frank Carter has a disturbing stage presence, with unsettling banter and bratty posturing. Obvious comparisons to other infamous redheaded punks from the UK aside, Carter carries the band with his chaotic swagger and maniacal screams. Even though Carter was apparently still nursing some injuries he suffered earlier in the tour, he still managed to jump into the audience and perform from the crowd. Not to be upstaged, Cancer Bats front-man Liam Cormier’s engaging stage presence was well appreciated by his audience of familiar fans. Despite some very minor technical problems, Cancer Bats were their usual wild selves and fun to watch.