At The GatesAt The Gates' first LP in two decades, 2014's At War With Reality, was better than it had any real right to be, especially given that its influential predecessor Slaughter Of The Soul still looms over the Swedes' catalogue like a phoenix. Nonetheless, they delivered a record that reinforced why they're not just respected, but revered.
Long-standing guitarist/co-songwriter Anders Bjorler has since left the ranks of the Gothenburg melodic death metal progenitors. His distinctive lead playing and writing style's absence is felt, but countered by the realisation that, now free from the shackles of expectation afforded their previous release, the remaining members perhaps have greater latitude creatively.
The title track's blistering thrash - note those recognisable alt-picked melodies and hefty rhythms - and A Stare Bound In Stone afford a hefty sonic gut-punch. Tomas Lindberg's roar remains impenetrable, too, even during the more familiar moments. There's a darker, heavier feel overall, although a rawer production dulls the impact and nuances occasionally. Once acclimated to that, there's plenty for diehard fans to sink their teeth into, especially Daggers Of Black Haze's melancholia; eerie, string-laden closer The Mirror Black's exploration of their proggier side and King Diamond axeman Andy LaRocque's classy contribution to In Nameless Sleep.
Considering their legacy, it's nigh on impossible for At The Gates to craft their definitive work in 2018, but this album isn't entirely out of place among such esteemed company.
