well, we'll have to look at the definition of epic:
1. An extended narrative poem in elevated or dignified language, celebrating the feats of a legendary or traditional hero.
2. A literary or dramatic composition that resembles an extended narrative poem celebrating heroic feats.
3. A series of events considered appropriate to an epic: the epic of the Old West.
considering that BOTH tentacles and gallows deliver(ed) their 'poems' (songs) in elevated, though certainly not dignified language (or volume!), and we both certainly celebrate(d) the feats of legendary and traditional heroes; we can establish that both bands are certainly in the same category of epic. but for one to transcend? it's hard to say, especially to pick one over the other. it's like a battle of the gods. i would tip my hat in regards to your longevity. your lineup and changes are certainly a little more epic than gallows, and your undying fervent punk-rockiness is doubly inspiring. i guess i'm not going to answer the question, thinking both bands have and/or had specific merits to bring themselves to the forefront of their fields of epic. can we march hand in hand into that field of battle? perhaps some day my heart will be in the proper place and i can fight amongst the troops in that sultry land. there is no punk rock in this tundra.