November slipped through our fingers, and As December Falls, we’re all reaching for a lifeline, a warm embrace to fend off the chill. Last Sunday, I found myself tangled up in the feverish pulse of SWX, a joint where the congregation was as raucous as a revival meeting. We thought it was just Bethany Hunter on vocals, Ande Hunter shredding on lead guitar, and Timmy Francis laying down the bass grooves. But hell, this wasn’t just a trio; it was a sprawling family, embracing us with more warmth than any blood kin.
In the chaotic seas of modern rock, As December Falls emerges like a rebel ship sailing against the electronic tide. This crew, led by the enchanting Bethany Hunter, taps into the spirit of alternative yesteryears, breathing life into a revitalized “old-school pop-punk” vibe through their guitar-driven anthems.
As December Falls carries the flag of independence, a testament to the do-it-yourself ethos, navigating the treacherous waters of the music industry without a safety net – no label, no manager, no booking agent. Their journey? Packed houses across the UK, a sonic rebellion shaking the foundations of sold-out venues.
These sonic renegades have etched their mark on the festival circuit, becoming fixtures at Slam Dunk Festival, Tramlines Festival, and Camden Rocks. As December Falls, in their unyielding pursuit, not only challenges the currents but rides them triumphantly, a thunderous echo of the untamed spirit of true alternative rock.
The warmth of a summer breeze still clings to As December Falls’ sails, carrying the triumphs of their latest album, dropped in July, aptly titled “Join The Club,” and a standout gig at this year’s Download Festival.
Arenas across the UK and Europe beckoned this winter, calling like sirens to the sailors of bygone eras.
The maritime port of Bristol becomes the battleground where ADF makes landfall. “Join the Club” isn’t just an album; it’s a homage to the fervent fan base that’s been the band’s backbone from day one. The vibe tonight? A two-way love affair, the band entranced by the crowd’s outpouring as much as the crowd is by them.
The 15-song setlist leans heavily, as expected, toward their latest opus. Seven tracks from the summer drop explode with anthemic energy. Bethany, a charismatic force of nature with a smile that could light up December’s darkest nights, while Ande and Timmy command steel platforms, orchestrating the swirling masses before them.
By the middle of the set with “Mayday” & “Carousel,” the floor transforms into a growing whirlpool of limbs.
Trips to “Happier,” masterful renditions of “I Don’t Feel Like Feeling Great” – it’s a celebration of how far ADF has soared in a blink of time.
The finale is nothing short of a spectacle. The legion of souls donning black ADF tees along the barrier must’ve dreamt of this moment. “Everything You Say” melts into “Ride” as Bethany joins them at the front, a communion of voices in a marathon singalong.
ADF is a relentless tsunami of momentum, no signs of ebbing in sight. Bang your heads, folks, because this ship ain’t stopping anytime soon.
@thebristolnomad / @bristolnomad_gigphotography
Role: Photographer / Reviewer / Interviewer
Chief, the one that bugs the team for team for their reviews and images. Creator and founder of The Bristol Gig Guide. Can usually be found swamped in admin or getting cramp kneeling at the front of a gig.
Available for: Gig Shoots, Gig Reviews, Photo Shoots, Album and Single cover shoots, Videography work, Interviews and Touring
First attended gig: Republica, circa 1996.
First gig shot: Hands Off Gretel, at The Louisiana!
Dream gig: Huge metalhead and my ultimate dream gig would be shooting my heroes Slipknot at a huge stadium gig, or as festival headliners. And to experience shooting a headline tour outside the UK
