ANUBIS GATE – Anubis Gate

Anubis Gate, the Progressive Metal masters from Denmark, have released their self-titled 5th album. Although this band may be little known and have a relatively small following, they produce a huge sound and deserve an immense amount of credit for producing some of the most mind-blowing Progressive Metal on the planet. Having gone through two lead vocalists with their first four albums, veteran band member and bassist Henrik Fevre has taken the reins on vocals, and it’s obvious the band has now found the missing link to truly set them apart from their contemporaries.

Ironically, this album was originally scheduled for release in the Spring of 2011. The band was making their finishing touches when their previous vocalist announced his surprising departure. It ended up by happenstance that Fevre, who had previously done lead work during live shows and backing vocals on recent albums, was able to step up to the forefront. It turned out to be blessing in disguise.

The passive listener may not think there is too much distinctiveness to his quality of singing. However, upon further inspection a very emotional and dramatic singer is uncovered. Fevre is a natural high tenor, which is a standard for modern day Progressive Metal, but there are underlying resolute and determination factors that actually make his singing style quite unique. This approach is most evident during the final track on the album, “Circumstanced”, an epic nine-minute journey that brings out every piece of proficiency in the Anubis Gate arsenal. Fevre’s vocals expand to his full range during this track, and portrays such an excessive amount of emotion. It’s very hard to believe this guy has not been a professional lead singer for his entire career.

Materially, the songwriting is phenomenal. Anubis Gate is known for writing very shrewd and crafty songs, without being so complex that you get lost in multiple themes. That is more evident than ever on this album. Each song has an impressive flow, and a grandiose feel. When you add the transcending vocals into the mix, it’s almost like a thing of beauty. Additionally, unlike some other Progressive Metal acts, there is no saturation by the keyboards, and there aren’t any lengthy synthesized solos. Anubis Gate features a spectacular dual guitar attack, with fairly heavy riffs that drive the themes of each track.

Overall, Anubis Gate is a definite treat from start to finish. Of the ten tracks, most are very solid. There are a couple that could be considered somewhat cliche, however as far as originality and talent is concerned, there isn’t anything missing. Anubis Gate should be much more well known given the magnificent music they produce, and it’s a shame they aren’t.