The Brighton based band consisting of Thom on Guitar and vocals, Charlie on Bass and vocals and Max on Drums have been a band since 2012, embarking on their first headline tour in Autumn 2013 they’re are currently on their Europe tour. I had the pleasure of watching them as they passed through Brighton to be a part of the Great Escape 2014 festival.
Thirty odd people squeezed into a grungey student house right on the seafront to watch the Gnarlwolves play their spontaneous and exciting set. It’s blatant that tonight is going to be Mental. Sofas stacked up on one another and the front room emptied to clear the room for the Gnarwolves equipment; the room is packed. It’s not long until cans are being thrown, people crowd surfing and the fear strikes in my friend’s eyes when she realises that she may have just granted permission for locals to absolutely trash her house. Goodbye deposit.
Fantastic reactions from the crowd with genuine admiration and eagerness,it definitely reflects in the bands performance. ‘Tongue Surfer’ sends the crowd crazy with every single body in the room shouting the words of ‘I’m a miserable shit and you know it’ – there is never a lack of sing alongs with this crowd. Constantly individuals throwing themselves around the room – breaking 2 light bulbs in the process – this is without a doubt a performance different than usual.
It’s clear that the Gnarwolves have no limits, no rules and just want to have a bloody good time. Finishing the set by midnight in respect to the neighbours they made the most of this unique set and crowd surfed into the audience whilst playing, what stage? There is no barrier between the crowd and the band both physically and mentally, making you feel like you’re part of the party and not just watching the party.
You can catch them on the rest of their tour at many upcoming festivals like Camden Rocks at the end of May.
HANNAH RYAN 