From the pits of hell (or actually Madrid, Spain) Summoning Hellgates appears. A new duo/band with backgrounds rooted in bands as Aversio Humanitatis and Sota de Bastos, that after some time became shared visions of spiritual defiance, metaphysical decay and a ferocious sound. The last sentence may sound familiar to people googling, as this is the info posted on the artist page of Osmose Productions. The reason for blatantly copying this is simple: there is nothing to be found on the band yet. They are shrouded in mystery, but as a first release directly through Osmose they are doing something right.
Being released on the 28th of November this year, there is some waiting to be done. The first release, an EP called Spear of conquest will be available on CD, 12’’ vinyl (black and clear), on tape and of course digitally.
Are there gates of hell to be summoned? Let’s take a listen.
Six tracks, a bit over 21 minutes. We are greeted with the first track Invokation, that’s just an intro of 1:12. Not noteworthy in my opinion, not really adding to the feeling of the music. The real first track can be called Conciliábulo. The music starts right away, haunting guitars that are being dragged forward by a double bass pattern on the drums. The bass is adding to the feeling of building up tension. After a small clearing in the music the real violence explodes.
The vocals kick in together with a hellish soundscape and not to forget: fast blastbeats!! This high intensity music works well with the selected mix, it reminds me a bit of Dead Congregation. The style of music needs to suit you, but for people that are into death/black (leaning more towards death in my opinion) will find this a great album. The drums are sounding clear, the guitars are harsh yet dark, the vocals are sounding like they are pulled straight from the darkest hellgates. The bass could be a little bit louder on some parts to be a more binding factor, but it is great as it is.
Every track is good in its own way and they keep the tension high during the (in my opinion) too short release. This is the kind of music that can be played on repeat, raw, furious and truly giving a feeling of opening a hellgate. For a first release Osmose did good for bringing them aboard. I am already looking forward to a full length!
85/100
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