Frank Carter & the Rattlesnakes at the Manchester Academy.

By Anya Baxter and Jim Blunt.

Over the years Frank Carter has forged one of the biggest names in alt rock, and after not only being a fan of his more recent projects but also his old band Gallows, we could not pass up an opportunity to witness the band play live. They did everything at their Manchester show on Friday night, except disappoint.

Photos by Anya Baxter.

Following support from Hot Wax and The Mysterines, the main act entered the stage and opened with "Can I Take You Home" straight from their brand new album Dark Rainbow. Although the album has only been out for a couple of weeks, it was astounding the way the fans knew every single lyric and sang them with as much passion as older tracks. Proof it has been on solid repeat. The live performance is a tribute to why. After this came "Brambles" and "Self Love", both exploding with energy from both members of the band. Frank proving he is one of the most charismatic and electric frontmen to grace the scene, and guitarist Dean Richardson, lovingly chanted at by the crowd as "Deano", bounces around the stage with an endless stream of energy and love for his craft. "Devil Inside Me" was the first of tracks from previous albums, and the excitement in the room only grew from here.

Photos by Anya Baxter.

A memorable moment in the set was "My Town", which the crowd belted out and elevated the atmosphere even further. Taking a slower, calmer moment with new track "Sun Bright Golden Happening", Frank, Deano and their touring musicians gathered in the centre of the stage, drawing in all the attention and creating a moving and tender moment. Going straight into "Superstar", the track sees Frank display is phenomenal vocal range and talent, before "Crowbar" has everyone dancing. The night ends with an encore of "Thunder", "I Hate You" and single "Man of the Hour", an instant hit and fantastic way to draw an unforgettable night to a close. In one live show, the band proved why they have the following and recognition they do, and every face in the audience had a huge smile, and headed home wondering if any other gig could top it.