Sometimes I lose faith in music and the future it holds, but when I arrive from a band like The Goddamn Gallows it restores my faith in the wink of an eye. This band rocked Small’s in Hamtramck last Saturday to a packed crowd for the final show of their spring tour.
The Goddamn Gallows was formed by founding members, Mikey Classic and Fishgutzzz; both natives of the Lansing/Detroit region. This band has created a solid imprint on the rockabilly music scene with their mix of upbeat-country instrumentation and punk rock vocals, with a creation called “punk rock gutterbilly.” The Goddamn Gallows are united with comparable bands on the label, Farmageddon Records, like Jayke Orvis & The Broken Band.
Farmageddon Records is a true independent force with their work to promote “roots”, or “new roots” style music in an EDM-thriving nation. From what I gathered, it seems that this record label, and its fans, are more like a family than a business-savvy musical endeavor. Which was like a breath of fresh air to experience and be a part of.
The evening went off with some worthy Metro Detroit talent including bands such as, Dear John Tractor, Trace The Veins, and The Arrogant Bastards. From one band to the next, the instruments, vocals, and enthusiasm were raised to purest level of adoration; from the fans loving the music to the bands loving the fans for their support. Nothing but classic musical entertainment at its best.
That night, the stage was occupied with the normal legal documents for a usual punk-rock show. Until The Goddamn Gallows hit the stage. These troubadours marched up there with banjoes, washboards, and accordions to thrill the audience with their unique musical styles. These five men put on a volatile and noteworthy performance; from the crazy stage antics of TV’s Avery (washboard, accordion) to the moment each band member got down on their knees and played in perfect concord. The Goddamn Gallows are a band to take a look at, along with the musical style they represent.
The exhilaration experienced from watching a genuine ring, play real music, with real instruments can sometimes boggle my overstimulated, pop-culture infused brain. When I go to shows like this, and learn about labels like Farmageddon Records it restores my faith in the humanity of music, which does still exist. The simplicity of relishing in a show of legitimate, born, and virtuous talent is yet upon us, the great unwashed! You just have to dig a little harder to find it.
