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Voici donc le retour tant espéré (par moi en tout cas) d'un des groupes danois les plus respectés. Comme dirait mon collègue Fred, « un des meilleurs groupes de la décennie dans son style », ce style étant le Metal Prog. Le dernier skeud, "The Detached", avait haut-la-main mérité une Sélection du site, donc mon souhait pour ce cinquième disque éponyme d'ANUBIS GATE s'approchait de la perfection.

Or, que ne lis-je pas en me documentant un brin ? Grosse surprise ! Le chanteur et producteur Jacob Hansen (BEYOND TWILIGHT) s'est fait la malle durant le processus créatif ! Le quintette signé devenait ainsi au début de 2011 un quatuor sans maison de disques. Merde alors… c'est injuste pour un combo de cette qualité ! Heureusement, le claviériste Kim Oleson lui a trouvé une nouvelle écurie aux States, Nightmare Records, un label spécialisé en Metal Prog. Galvanisé par ce changement et les nombreuses récompenses récoltées au cours des dernières années, ANUBIS GATE est prêt en ce troisième tiers à brûler les enceintes, leur bassiste Henrik Fevre prenant la relève au micro (il faisait les chœurs avant).

Le résultat est… brillant. Encore. Avec une telle stabilité – Hansen étant le seul membre à quitter le groupe depuis sa formation – ANUBIS GATE démontre de fameuses qualités de composition, les mêmes richesses et sonorités chamarrées qui avaient rendu "The Detached" si mémorable. Il s'y colle d'ailleurs sur la longueur (une heure) et sur la variété/couleur des plages. Avec des influences telles que QUEENSRYCHE, IRON MAIDEN, LORD BANE, TAD MOROSE, ICED EARTH, CRIMSON GLORY, GENESIS et SAVATAGE, on peut s'attendre à tout !

La force d'ANUBIS GATE, à l'instar d'autres formations Prog, se trouve dans la dichotomie complexité/accessibilité de son matériel. Pondre une pièce de huit ou neuf minutes ne l'empêche pas de garder un rythme soutenu, de propulser des riffs-hameçons, de tisser des ambiances synthétiques à couper le souffle et d'afficher un refrain glorieux. ANUBIS GATE propose tout ça et bien plus dans sa musique, arrivant à contenter le fan le plus exigeant avec ses structures alambiquées et le fan de Hard FM qui aime que les choses soient claires. Prenez par exemple "The Re-Formation Show", qui commence avec une lourde intro et mue par la suite vers un couplet aérien pour terminer son vol sur un refrain hyper lumineux parfait pour la radio… Tout ça en deux minutes ! Si vous accrochez à cette formule, à la beauté de ces fresques, "Anubis Gate" vous fera passer de longues heures de bonheur out of this world. "The Detached" se poursuit. Sinon, la traversée sera longue et périlleuse… Surtout si la voix de Fevre vous fait regretter celle d'Hansen. Ce n'est pas mon cas !

Chaque morceau de cet autre monument est dissociable de l'autre, comme sur n'importe quelle honorable rondelle progressive. Le mystère et l'émotion ("Facing Dawn", "World In A Dome" et un des riffs les plus originaux de l'album, "Oh My Precious Life" et sa géniale montée en puissance jusqu'à son noyau radiophonique, "Golden Days" et ce chant qui vous rappellera quelqu'un d'assez célèbre, la jolie quasi instrumentale "River" et "Circumstanced", long rideau n'ennuyant jamais) côtoient ainsi la lourdeur mélodique accouplée à la joie vitaminée ("Hold Back Tomorrow", parfait botté d'envoi avec cette balance riff incendiaire/refrain extincteur, "Desiderio Omnibus" et son début véloce menant à un apex des plus énergiques, l'éléphantesque "Telltale Eyes" et son drôle de refrain).

En somme, de l'ingéniosité en grosses barres, un superbe chapelet de refrains à nouer à vos tympans et un voyage sans frontières sur les ailes des synthés et des soli.

Le plus important sera pour vous de retenir que "Anubis Gate" rend accroc. On a envie d'y replonger aussitôt que le manège s'immobilise tellement ses ingrédients sont savamment implantés et dosés. Et merde, le départ de Jacob Hansen n'a en rien influencé négativement le groupe, ce qui est une double victoire pour les quatre doigts de cette solide main !

ANUBIS GATE est une entité de génie, qu'on se le dise.

Note : 4,5/5.

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Metalunderground.com
Anubis Gate-Anubis Gate
4,5/5
With refined form, attention to detail, and a determined focus on effective songwriting, Anubis Gate's self-titled fifth album sees these progressive Danes quickly perfecting their art. Bassist Henrik Fevre takes over vocal duties here, while the rhythm section of Kim Olesen and Jesper Jensen on guitars and Morten Sørensen on drums pounds away on most songs. Olesen also lends keyboards to the tracks, which provide a nice assisting role in creating soundscapes.
Right away, the album unfolds with noticeably different vocal stylings than the previous albums. The band has lost Jacob Hansen's falsettos and gained a balance in Fevre. Fevre wrote most of the lyrics on all of the recordings, and his bright emotionally transparent voice gives inflection to these new lyrics. The first song, "Hold Back Tomorrow" comes out of the gate unfolding like a film score, starting with an introductory piano line before lifting the curtain on wave after wave of layered guitars and driving drumming. Cut from the same cloth as Opeth and Daylight Dies in the focus on blending unexpected melodic chord changes together, the procession of songs is full of exciting twists and turns, with "Circumstanced" as an album highlight.
Above all, the songwriting on this album was the band’s priority. Anubis Gate put a concerted effort into maintaining discernible song structures, while at the same time breaking up monotony by frequently using different time signatures within a movement. Somehow, the band manages to vigilantly keep up the technicality without distracting from the point. The fact that the members do so without being disorienting to average listeners might make them the missing link between the prog-heads and the just-the-basics listeners. There's an abundance of bright, high-flying, and memorable choruses as well.
As far as vocal stylings go, "Facing Dawn," "Oh My Precious Life," and "Telltale Eyes" place Henrik Fevre in the same camp as top-dogs Hansi Kursch (Blind Guardian), Tony Kakko (Sonata Arctica), and Roy Khan (ex-Kamelot.) There are too many vocal tracks to count, with 4- and 5-part harmonies going on in the choruses. Fevre's high tenor bleeds feeling and is made all the more dramatic by former band-mate and ex-vocalist Jacob Hansen's expert mixing on the record. "Golden Days" might be the best illustration of this, with uplifting lyrics and harmonies drenched in dramatic reverb amid swirling synthesizer.
Part of what makes this record stand firm is that it's not trying to be a combination of styles. Free of pretense beyond the need for varied time signatures, the band approaches each song as a new way to expand the scope of its sound without losing orbit around a central feel. There are riffs to satisfy fans of Arch Enemy, In Flames, and Nevermore without becoming just a sum of their parts.
To put it simply, this is an impossibly grand effort that only enemies of melody could justifiably dislike. In other words, you'd have to be a metal Nazi to write this off of your must-have list for 2011 releases.
Highs: Soundscapes, unique and huge vocal styles, and attention to songwriting above prog pretension.
Lows: The bass could be more identifiable at times.
Bottom line: A masterwork likely to become a staple of progressive metal in years to come.

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My Global Mind
ANUBIS GATE s/t
8/10
Anubis Gate is probably one of the more interesting metal progressive acts on the scene for a long time coming now. Stylistically speaking the band mixes a number of styles from some melodic ambiance guitar riffs, to your typical progressive metal subliminal intrinsic sounds.
When I think about Anubis I think about bands like Volbeat, Vanden Plas, Riverside etc… You know unique, creative, progressive, dark and pushing the boundaries of a genre that sometimes get’s a bad rep for not being creative enough, this band has certainly appertained not to the latter as they seem to be pushing the edge on each release.
While the group is certain not new to the scene, the first reminiscent of the band can be linked to the 80′s when bassist Jesper M. Jensen and Henrik Fevre as guitarist and vocalist formed V-AXE. Henrik who has been an intricate player in the songwriting department for the band, now gets to sing on this new record simply titled “Anubis Gate”.
After the group parted ways with their lead singer Jacob Hansen earlier this year, Hansen which by the way was still involved producing this record, I was left wanting to hear how their place and sometimes second vocalist as well as guitarist Henrik Fevre would bring to the table; especially having Fevre being involved with a good amount of the songwriting on previous albums.
The songwriting and the unique trend of sounds create a prolific environment that resonate long after a few first spins. Just listen to the curious rifest in “World In A Dome”, this epic 8 minute track toggles a piercing guitar driven rhythm that dominates the song, plus you add the change of vocal rhythm and it introduces you to Anubis Gate’s complexity sound structure. The straight up power metal elements are not too far gone from this release either, on the speedier up tempo song “Desiderio Omnibus”, which features elements of Evergrey, and Circus Maximus thrown in for good measure; this fantastic track was one of the stronger songs on the whole release I thought.
One of my escapes on this record is the astral keyboard sounds of Kim Olesen which add a layer of futuristic sounds to each track. Listen to the keys on “Oh My Precious Life” and you’ll know what I’m talking about, haunting and dark  but delicate at the same time. Fevres voice comes out glaring on the track “Golden Days” which reminds of Andy Kuntz from Vanden Plas, a unique warm sounding vocal tone.
What can be conclude from now Anubis Gate’s 5th studio album? Well you have a strangely different record for the world to see. Strangely beautiful and mixed with elements of sci-fi, power metal, progressiveness evolution and a deceptive songwriting approach. If you we’re a fan of their last album “The Detached” then you may see the self title as a natural maturation of the previously mentioned, but when it comes to these Danish dudes; they are paving their own road as to what they want to sound like. For fans of the band is a must and for any progressive metal fan who likes to be challenged once in a while then it’s a sure bet. These guys definitely have their own sound and beauty is not always in the eyes of the beholder rather in the mind of it’s creator….Check it out!!!
Written by Denys

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MUZIKREVIEWS

Anubis Gate
Anubis Gate

4,5/5

Anubis Gate’s self titled album is the fifth release for this Danish group. They have replaced their lead singer following the sudden departure of the original one and, also, this is their first record released with a new label. These transitions have been handled smoothly and it has not affected the quality of their work. Anubis Gate is a great ride from start to finish.
 
“Hold Back Tomorrow” is full of energy that sets the tone for the entire album. It lets the listener sample some of the riffs, rocking beats, and clean and powerful vocals that will dominant the album. “The Re-Formation Show” has a heavy and tense opening with pounding drums that get the pressure rising. “Facing Dawn” switches things up by beginning with the vocals right away. I like how there is no build-up. The beat and chorus are infectious making it the kind of song that one can easily get hooked on.
 
“World in a Dome” has an opening that sounds different from the rest of the album. It has a strangeness and eerie quality to it. The chorus sports the powerful vocals that have been a pleasure to listen to. “Desiderio Omnibus” is the heaviest and fastest song. The background growls compliment the tempo and the tone of the song. Though there are growls, the main vocals are clean and melodious. “Oh My Precious Life” and “Golden Days” are two more rocking songs. They keep the quality of the album high and consistent as the end of the album approaches.
 
 “Telltale Eyes” has the best opening of all the songs. It is a heavy song that carries with it a creepy atmosphere. Because of the title, it is hard for me not to think of the stories of American horror writer Edgar Allan Poe. It has the psychological slant to it that makes me wonder about any connection. Describing the song “River” as atmospheric is an understatement. It is so good that I wish it had a longer run time. “Circumstanced” continues the atmospheric quality of “River” and brings back the heaviness of previous songs.    
 
Anubis Gate’s latest release is going to be a great day for metal fans. It is an all around wonderfully put together piece of work that the band should feel extremely proud of. It is going out to the world in mid-September and comes highly recommended. This is not an album to be passed over.
 


 
Key Tracks: World in a Dome, Telltale Eyes, River, Circumstanced
 
Brian McKinnon - Muzikreviews.com Staff
 
August 15, 2011


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ABSOLUTE ZERO MEDIA
Anubis Gate- S/T-CD (Nightmare Records)

What is it with Prog Power metal that wins me over so much is it the synths mixed with crushing guitar leads and harmonic vocals. I don't all I know is Nightmare records has more then a few talented as hell bands. If you could mix bands like Styx, Journey with Blind Guardian, Queensryche and Iced Earth you would have Anubis Gate. with there self titled release you even have some amazing hard rock elements of bands like Dokken, Skid Row and American Angel going on in they way they use the melody an play it to a pop style without making them a full on pop band. Anubis Gate are just down right catchy in the way the present the songs and tracks. Again you have to like this style and if the syrup like production does you in then so be it. All I can say is winner winner chicken dinner...

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Metal Express Rating: 9.0/10
Release Date: 2009-03-30
by: LIOR “STEINMETAL” STEIN

OK, I'm kinda scratchin' my head as to why Anubis Gate don't get talked about more in progressive metal circles. After all, this Danish band has been around since 2003, and The Detached is now their fourth release, out now on Locomotive Records. Perhaps we can blame the label here just a little bit, as the bands last album Andromeda Unchained was a monster and should have warranted this new one being pushed to the moon. Well, we all know how many of these smaller metal labels have struggled in recent years, so maybe the fact that Anubis Gate have not been pushed as they rightfully should have been comes as no surprise. Regardless, it's time to spread the word people-this band is the real deal, a progressive metal machine that's firing on all cylinders with The Detached, a release that will instantly appeal to fans of early Dream Theater, Fates Warning, Tomorrow's Eve, Seventh Wonder, Vanden Plas, Pathosray, and Circus Maximus. That's right, expect no shortage of soaring melodies, gripping arrangements, and plenty of instrumental virtuosity throughout this new album from Anubis Gate.

The first thing that hits you here, besides for the crankin' guitar riffs from Jesper M. Jensen & Kim Olesen (the duo also share keyboard duties, and there's tons of them here) are the majestic & powerful vocals from Jacob Hansen. Yes, that's right, THE Jacob Hansen, the legendary producer himself. This guy can flat out sing! Listen to him on killer cuts such as "Yiri" and "Find A Way (Or Make One)", as his soaring pipes cut through a symphonic wall of crunchy riffs, tasty lead harmonies, orchestral keys, and solid rhythms. Hansen almost sounds like a young Geoff Tate on the grandiose "Lost In Myself", a catchy progressive/power metal anthem that will have you humming the chorus for days after hearing it for the first time. If you like the more complex prog-metal fare, check out "Dodecahedron" , the Middle Eastern tinged "Pyramids", and the melodic speed metal of "Bloodoath". As you make your way to the back end of the CD, there's the powerful epic "Options - Going Nowhere", a near 10 minute epic filled with some absolutely tasty guitar work from Jensen & Olesen, huge beds of synths, and some fantastic vocal arrangements. Just a great progressive metal song filled with lush harmonies and so many tones and textures, that ultimately shows the true talent of this band.
Once again, I reiterate, if you are a progressive metal fan, and you've not checked out Anubis Gate yet, well, shame on you. But hey, I'll forgive you, as long as you make The Detached your very next CD purchase. Deal? Trust me, you won't regret it.

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Anubis Gate - Purification (8,5/10) - Denmark - 2004

METAL-OBSERVER.COM

I don’t know, what happened up there, but Denmark is virtually exploding with new and promising Metal bands of late. And when one is taken up by Intromental Management, that already shows that it indeed is a really talented one and ANUBIS GATE have exactly that, as well as a contract with Locomotive Music, which are continuously evolving into a big all-round label in Rock and Metal.
 
2001 guitarist/bassist/keyboarder Jesper M. Jensen and drummer Morten Sørensen ANUBIS GATE formed the band in Aalborg, the Danish Metal capital at the moment. Some of you might know Jesper still from Thrashers INVOCATOR, after which’s end he joined a Rap Metal band called GERONIMO, where he met Morten. As singer they recruited Torben Askholm (PROPHETS OF DOOM and NORTHERN EMPIRE) and finally they entered the famous Hansen Studios, which coincidentally belong to Jesper’s former band colleague (INVOCATOR) Jacob Hansen.
 
As influences they state bands such as QUEENSRYCHE, IRON MAIDEN, LORDBANE, CRIMSON GLORY, FATES WARNING and SAVATAGE, which we already get to hear on “Downward Spiral“ (“Hall Of Two Truths“ is the usual intro), definitely not the usual Power and Heavy Metal, but with a quite own atmosphere, which reminds me of a mix of CRIMSON GLORY, (old) TAD MOROSE and CANDLEMASS, rather sluggish and intense, absolutely not the usual uniformity of this style, also thanks to the rather unusual voice of Torben Askholm, who has a quite own timbre and reminds me  a lot of a certain other singer, whose name just won’t come to me right now, of course…
 
The title track continues this certain mystic atmosphere, which reminds me a bit of early TAD MOROSE by the use of the keyboards. Oh, oh, oh, and now I just remembered the name of this singer: Marco Hietala, in his middle phase with TAROT! “In The Comfort Of Darkness“ has given me this insight, also very mystical, epic and dark, nicely different than most of their current genre colleagues and also the instrumental “Before Anubis“ with its added acoustic guitar has this very own atmosphere that oozes a comparably magic as the early TAD MOROSE had (without sounding like a copy of the Swedes, not that you misunderstand me mentioning this band name so often!), really good one! And with “The Shadow” they add another very intensive one.
 
The album is based on a concept, not just with the band name we get a certain Egyptian note, but also here and there in the melodies. Lyrically they deal with the fight with inner demons and the cleansing on a psychological level, while making clear that it is not a tight concept.
 
Unfortunately I only have a cardboard promo, so that I do not have the booklet, but the very moody cover shows the “Anubis Gate“, through which the jackal god of Egyptian mythology leads the mislead souls through the underworld into the realm of Osiris. If the rest can compete, then the visual side is up to par, concerning the production I only have to tell you the name Jacob Hansen, right? If not, then let me put down some of his references: ILLDOSPOSED, ANCIENT, FALCONER, MERCENARY, RAUNCHY and MANTICORA.
 
The songs all are on a pretty similar level, which to some might seem a bit monotonous after a while, but in my opinion this is exactly one of the advantages of “Purification”, as the guys have created a really dense album. Well, as usual it should be best to check out the material yourself, but the whole thing has my blessing! (Online May 27, 2004)

Bart: Man, am I glad I got this CD at the beginning of the month, so I could let it sink in! Now it's all over my system and feels comforting when spinning it. How different it was when first pushing play. A strange affair of progressive power metal not lacking of really heavy stuff combined with electronic sounds and exotic influences. Combine that with catchy choruses alternating with truely progressive song structures and this is one different beast. The thing that got me into it was the concept of the record. It is story centered around the idea of time being of the same category as space and matter, following one human (a 'detached') living his life bending time as if moving an object to where he'd want to. The subjects that are provoked by this possibility are touched upon by every song really well: this is one of those rare concept discs where the concept really has great depth and gives you something to contemplate upon! After having been caught by the concept, the ingenuity of the music began to reveal itself to me song by song. Every song is a little story in itself, giving attention to yet another aspect of the concept. When the main character is in a medieval monastery, a choir of monks is interweaved within the music. So it is with all songs: the band captures the story not only in the lyrics, but manages to create a composition and style for every location and time. Still, there is the same identity present in every song, representing of course the main character. Now, if that isn't a conceptual way for a band to sound diverse but still maintain a very distinct sound of their own…I could and would want to say a lot more about this record of a band that surprised me with their strong musical progression, but I think you should just really buy this gem (you need the story with this one) and throw yourself in this concept that will make you perhaps rethink your view of reality.
Rating: 95/100 (details)

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ROCKREPORT:BE
5.5/6
ANUBIS GATE

Although this is already the fourth studio album from this Danish band, it’s the first I get to hear and review. I don’t know how good or bad Anubis Gate’s former albums have been received, but this new album is so good that I will certainly check out their back catalogue.
“The Detached” is a concept album based on a story written by Danish writer Martin Rauff. The main character of the story is called Bilao and he belongs to a special kind of humans, the detached. They are immortal and not attached to the laws of time and space, hence their name. They are capable of travelling to any era, past and future, until they find the right one for them to grow old and die. Bilao travels through time, gaining fascinating experiences like the construction of the Egyptian pyramids. But with every new journey his physical problems increase …
Musically this story has been worked out very careful as well. Jacob Hansen seems to be an excellent singer with a high-pitched voice and he’s surrounded by a band that knows how to play power / progressive metal: with enough attention for melodies in order to reach as many fans as possible. Like I wrote at the beginning of this review: I didn’t know about this band, but now you may easily call me a fan! Great album in the vein of classic Queensrÿche! (CL)

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MELODIC:NET

ANDROMEDA UNCHAINED

The first real song, after the intro, shows right away that we’re in for a very good progressive hard rock band here. “Snowbound” feels like a more straight forward DREAM THEATER or THRESHOLD tune, and after some 2 minutes there’s plenty of truly progressive ingredients. These Danish guys are like a fresh breeze, since there’s a lot of variation in the songs, as well as a dynamic feeling thanks to a very good production by Hansen/Olesen. Occasionally they are touching the line to power metal, but there’s always much more to it than that. Just hear the title track “Andromeda Unchained” and it’s like a hint of nu-metal crashing into prog metal zones. If DREAM THEATER would team up with LED ZEPPELIN (which is not very possible, I know) you’d get the song “Resurrection Time”, while “The Final Overture” is soundwise quite a lot like FROST and “Take Me Home” makes me think of my favourite band ENCHANT. Jacob Hansen is an excellent singer, not too far from Geoff Tate. If you’re into progressive metal or power metal, you must take a listen to these guys. This is surprisingly good! Some yummy keyboard sounds and solos as well, played by Kim Olesen.

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METAL-OBSERVER.COM

Anubis Gate - A Perfect Forever (8,5/10) - Denmark - 2005

A bit more than a year after the already very good debut “Purification“ Danish ANUBIS GATE are back already with their second effort “A Perfect Forever“ and even though the first album had not received too good reviews everywhere, the somewhat mystic, a bit proggy Metal of the Scandinavians had touched a soft spot in me (even though in retrospective rated a bit too high). How good that they hardly changed anything in the musical direction, but rather refined it.
 
For the debut I had drawn a comparison with a mix from CRIMSON GLORY, old TAD MOROSE and some CANDLEMASS, anno 2005 I can, in stead of CANDLEMASS and the at times a bit doomy touch of early Taddies, add the ingenious Norwegians of PAGAN’S MIND, which just furthers the already exquisite influences. The outstanding elements have stayed the same, though, above all the excellent voice of Torben Askholm, which still is outside the oft overused melody lines, and the dynamic song writing that makes the Danes stand out of the mass.
 
There is one difference compared to the debut, though, they have added a few bricks, which fits the songs pretty well, as they hold more variety nowadays. One of the highlights of the albums is the great ”Future Without Past“, which starts out with quiet acoustic guitars and then combines heavy riffing with mid-paced rhythm, yet always staying very atmospheric, with a great performance by Torben. Then I also have to point out the very good and unclichéd ballad “Curfew“, and the absolutely brilliant duo “Children Of The Pauper King“ and “Approaching Inner Circle“ (most probably THE highlight of the album), but also “The Wanton Blades Of Lust“ and “Epitome Of Delusion“ are great tracks.
 
Jacob Hansen once more has given the album a very powerful sound, which gives the songs the right framework. That the album is pretty close to the sounds of the Eighties, but with a “new” sound, just gives “A Perfect Forever” a quite own appeal, which should not go by fans of the mentioned bands unnoticed. (Online March 2, 2006)

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DANGERDOG

ANUBIS GATE: THE DETACHED

If you feel a bit of deja vu when listening to Anubis Gate's fine new release 'The Detached,' it may be because you hear echoes of Queensyrche in their music. Jacob Hansen's voice and many of the compositions on this disc sound much like the early works of that great American prog metal band. But before you get dismissive thinking Anubis Gate may be only clones, you need to listen carefully to 'The Detached.' This album is loaded with impressive and expansive progressive power metal that will charm the most jaded of ears.
'The Detached' is a concept album based on a story by Danish game play writer Martin Rauff. The Detached are immortals having the ability to travel freely through space and time. The story follows one such immortal his travels and the consequences of them. The story is interesting, but it is the music that is the real player here. Anubis Gate brings a variety of arrangements many where very heavy lines blend eagerly with the more sublime as on 'Out of Time' and 'Dodechedron.' Mostly, however, Anubis Gate are master of combining a rich breadth tempos and movements within every song. They extend their creativity best when the progressive trumps the generic power metal as on 'Pyramids' and 'Options Going Nowhere.' Generally, most progressive metal is not necessarily mainstream friendly, but on 'Lost In Myself,' Anubis Gates delivers the prog in a very catchy melodic metal wrapper. This song along should grab anyone interest and cause the to want to dive into the rich musical tapestry of 'The Detached.'
On their fourth release 'The Detached,' Anubis Gate shows once again their creativity and poise offering an grand work of immense and satisfying progressive metal. Both compelling and convincing, the songs show the caliber of Anubis Gates skills and their continued presences as prog masters. Very recommended!
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HEAVY METAL HAVEN

Anubis Gate – Andromeda Unchained


Andromeda Unchained is the third studio album from Danish metal band Anubis Gate and the first to feature the lead vocals of Jacob Hansen (Invocator, guitar in Beyond Twilight, as well as a notable metal producer), whose relationship with the band has always been a close one, with guest slots on both albums prior to Andromeda Unchained as well as sitting in the producer’s chair.

Andromeda Unchained is a concept album with a science fiction theme. I wish I could tell you a little bit about it, but the album is one of those concepts that is difficult to follow based on the lyrics alone, and the one link to the story that I could find on the band’s website no longer seems to work, but I guess ultimately the story doesn’t matter so much when the music itself is this good. So moving on...

Anubis Gate has always been something of a hybrid between progressive and power metal. On their previous releases Purification (2004) and A Perfect Forever (2005) the sound was mainly rooted in their power metal side but as of Andromeda Unchained the band’s progressive side has been coming out more in their sound, which is particularly obvious in the album’s first proper song, Snowbound. Heavy guitars are in abundance, but the use of acoustics is also down very well in the chorus, which in my opinion is a slightly atypical way to use acoustics in a metal song, since most of the time you may hear them in the verses, and a band would then heavy it up for the memorable chorus, but Anubis gate uses the acoustics in the chorus, and the effect works really well. Snowbound stands as a highlight for other reasons as well, mainly for the great instrumental work that appears later in the track. The high standard of quality never drops from herein either.

Hansen’s vocals sound a lot more pure in tone than many metal singers, and his deliver is very different than what I’ve heard him do in Invocator, which is a thrash metal band. It took me some time to get used to him to be honest, but once I was used to him he became one of my favourite metal singers and his tone fits the Anubis Gate sound really well and he is very much an improvement on the overall sound to the band’s former singer Torben Askholm, who was pretty good in his own right. Band bassist Henrik Fevre also performs some lead vocals on the album, in the song Take Me Home. Since I’m writing this review in 2011, several years since Andromeda Unchained was released, I just want to bring to attention to the fact that Henrik has actually now replaced Jacob as Anubis Gate’s lead vocalist, and that the song may be worth paying some extra attention to for any newcomers reading this review, just to give you an idea about how the band may sound on their still as yet forthcoming fifth studio album.

But back to the album at hand, Andromeda Unchained is a very impressive release. Each of the proper songs is powerful and has its own identity from the rest. Waking Hour is very much a metal song, being heavy throughout and the title track is just as intense, but features excellent use of synths to provide an almost spacey atmosphere to the music that is fitting with the sci-fi theme, while there are a couple of longer tracks in This White Storm Through My Mind and The End of Millenium Road. And of course as I already mentioned, Take Me Home features a lead vocal from Henrik Fevre, and also features a lot of good acoustic work. Every song is extremely good and there is no track where I wish things had been done differently. Highlights? It’s really impossible to pick in a release of this high quality except to say the whole thing, but I do find myself most partial to the likes of Snowbound, Waking Hour, Andromeda Unchained, Resurrection Time and Point of No Concern. That’s purely from a subjective point of view though; you could easily have different favourites.

The album does use several interlude tracks every now and then, as well as an intro and an outro piece. I have to confess, in many albums I would write such things off in a heartbeat, but here I would actually miss them if they were absent. They are atmospheric and ideal breather pieces between the actual songs, and they serve Andromeda Unchained extremely well. Other bands should take note; this is how to use such things in style and no I do not want to hear you cutting your songs apart to make more tracks or weird sound effects! Anubis Gate proves that such things can be done without doing something stupid. Much respect to them for it.

This is one of the best progressive metal albums I have ever heard, though I do think that the album that follows it, 2009’s The Detached is superior to the point that I consider it one of the best albums ever made from any genre. However although I’ll always say that The Detached is better, there is no excuse really for not adding Andromeda Unchained to your collection as well. Albums such as this convince me that Anubis Gate is one of the most unfairly unsung bands around at the moment, and I eagerly await the release of their next album. Absolutely essential listening.

Rating: 9.8

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ROCKFREAKS.NET

9/10

Anubis Gate
The Detached

Written by: BL on 23/05/2009 02:40:52
Named after a time travel fantasy novel released back in the 80s, this five-piece heavy progressive metal group from Denmark first graced my ears around a year ago with "Andromeda Unchained", their 2007 effort. While I didn't listen to that album in its entirety I had a fair affinity with what I heard: some interesting additional instruments provided some spectacular layering effects along with stellar guitar work for a concept album. I'm glad to say that these elements are back greater than ever in their follow-up, "The Detached".
Like "Andromeda Unchained", "The Detached" is a concept album written by Martin Rauff. The story is based around the main character Bilao, who is part of a race of immortal people called "The Detached" because they have the ability to 'detach' themselves from time and space which allows them to travel back and forth through time. They can choose to give up their immortality upon finding an era in history to settle in, as time travelling becomes increasingly more difficult for them physically the more they jump around. I won't spoil any more though, as part of the enjoyment of a concept album is reading and 'hearing' the story unfold with the music itself.
Speaking of the music, there are moments where the guitar work combined with the other instruments shapes some mind blowing landscapes. Particularly on "Pyramids", where when you read the story extract and the lyrics, you really almost feel like you're witnessing the scene at hand: 20,000 workers building a pyramid day and night for a mighty Pharaoh. The way the instrumentation blends to form such rich layers is astounding. There is always an extra element in most of the songs, whether it be acoustic guitars overlaid on top, or synth instruments adding a really exotic touch. A lot of these moments are almost like surprises for listeners unfamiliar with their sound, so like the story there is always something new around the corner, and there is hardly a dull moment. A mention goes out to the production, which is simply wonderful as everything sounds clear as day.
On the heavier tracks such as "Dodecahedron" and "Bloodbath" the guitarists Kim and Jesper shine with some great downtuned riffing, and the melodic lead on top sounds far more bright and delightful in contrast. There are some really technical parts throughout, with mixed time signatures and some rather wonderful solo work; not necessarily in speed or bizarreness but in actual construction where things all just fit together, nothing ever out of place. A brief final mention to vocalist Jacob who sounds a little like James LaBrie of Dream Theater, his voice pleasant and soothing (I rather like the start of "Out Of Time") and credit for being very competent without being annoying which can be a problem elsewhere in this and similar genres. Further credit to drummer Morten and bassist Henrik for holding the rhythm together with tight performances, being far more subtle in their creativity but always present nonetheless.
My only minor complaints are that the flow can be occasionally hindered by the slower moments, or when there is an introduction of a new instrumental fill. Songs can be long (but not too long for prog standards) for some, so as always with this genre, and the concept in particular, to get the full experience and enjoyment one needs to be focused somewhat when listening. I really think this album is fantastic though, and for me is reason alone to go back to "Andromeda Unchained" to see what else I have been missing out on.
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BRUTALISM.COM
4/5 The Detached

If you like progressive power metal then you will love Denmark's Anubis Gate and their album "Detached". This album's sound presents classic heavy metal from the 80's that has been laced with epic metal from the 90's creating a beautifully dark fairytale (in a heavy metal dungeons & dragons sort of way) ambience. This album tells a story and every track is part of an adventure.With pretty soundscapes throughout and wonderful vocal arrangements along with great melodies and dualling riffs really makes this album grab your attention. Really well though out and put together with the utmost harmony I have no choice but to rate "The Detached" a 4/5. Well worth the listen and I highly recommend this one. (review by Kindra RavenMoon)

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METAL-TEMPLE
8/10

Anubis Gate
Andromeda Unchained
by Grigoris Chronis at 23 July 2007, 12:22 PM

I totally respect bands from Denmark. Be it the inheritance of MERCYFUL FATE/KING DIAMOND, ARTILLERY, PRETTY MAIDS and more obscure acts like WITCH CROSS, EVIL, NARITA, MALTESE FALCON, PROPHETS OF DOOM, INVOCATOR and…hmmm…I'd never imagine I'd fall in front of the INVOCATOR name again (this band released a wonderful technical thrash debut album in 1992, named Excursion Demise). All these, since Denmark's Metal heroes ANUBIS GATE release their third CD called Andromeda Unchained and - since I had no previous connection to the act's bio - I was thrilled to see ex-INVOCATOR members Jesper Jensen and Jacob Hansen here!
Limited was the chance to hear a parallel style from ANUBIS GATE; a change of times… ANUBIS GATE seems to focus a lot on the 'progressive' side of Metal music. Since this sound is not a beloved one, things could start getting a little bit of  'pain in the ass'. Thankfully, Andromeda Unchained does not seem to be bothering at all; on the contrary, the chemistry between Fevre and Jensen (the band's creators since the mid-80s, via multiple naming) seems solid enough for everyone's ears. ANUBIS GATE succeeds in putting lots of melody in the complexity of their songs' structure. Hansen's vocals are sweet and powerful - he reminded me of a Euro Power version of James LaBrie - while the guitar work is excellent. Heavy yet mature, sharp yet 'free', the Jensen/Olesen duo provides the listener with elegant soloing, hard-working rhythms and (most of all) the view of a thinking Metal musician.
Meaning: no virtuoso exaggerations here; just the epitome of a good musician who knows he needs to extend his horizon but still is a Metal fan. Good musicians, in general, who present melodic Prog Metal music as a mix of QUEENSRYCHE, CONCEPTION, SYMPHONY X, (enough of) DREAM THEATER, COMMUNIC etc. There's enough of 'classic' Metal music in Andromeda Unchained, too, but you gotta be an experienced metalhead to smell the blend.
The production of the alum is ideal; every instrument is heard 'as is'. Really, a wonderful sound you will adore. This - apart from the obvious - helps in enjoying an album that is 'extended' enough in duration (something less than 70 minutes, right). But, but, but…the sound is (as pre-said) so calm, the songs are (all of them) so comfortable and in-a-way straightforward while the variety of grooves does nothing less than keeping the listener in alert without letting him get tired. Isn't this the quintessence of a 'good' Prog Metal album?
Without being strictly 'prog', though, ANUBIS GATE did achieve raising the interest of even suspicious ears, like mine. Fans of 'thinking' Metal music, do not miss this album. Don't know what the band's previous efforts sound like, but Andromeda Unchained sees an excellent album by a band gaining a new friend.

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HEAVYMETALRESOURCE.COM

8/10

Anubis Gate - The Detached   © 2009 Locomotive Records
Anubis Gate is definitely one of the best progressive metal bands I have heard in awhile. The band blends alot of interesting subject material, some of it in the Sci-Fi genre with some heavy progressive metal. The band mix in a decent amount of melody, but never lose sight of the hard driving guitar sound that makes this band great. Vocally, this band is really good with Jacob Hansen really adding that vocal dimension that brings the whole thing together. This band is slightly heavier in my opinion in the terms of intensity then other bands, but that progressive element is there in a big way. Great stuff.

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HARDNHEAVY.DE

5,5/7

 
ANDROMEDA UNCHAINED, 2007, Locomotive

J.G., 03.08.2007

Review:
 
Nicht immer bekommt eine Band die Chance aus der Not eine Tugend machen zu können. So geschehen bei Anubis Gate, als der Sänger Torben Askhol Ende 2005 an einer ernsten Halsinfektion erkrankte und nicht mehr weiter am Mikro stehen konnte. Er wurde zunächst von Bassist Henrik Fevre vertreten, bis die Truppe schließlich in ihrem Produzenten Jacob Hansen den geeigneten Sänger für ihr drittes Album ANDROMEDA UNCHAINED fand. Und um es vorweg zu nehmen, Jacob ist durchaus mehr als nur eine "Notlösung". Mit seiner klaren und druckvollen Gesangsleistung kann er auf der ganzen Linie überzeugen.

Dach kurzem spacigen Intro "Freak Storm at Post Zeta" beginnt das Album mit "Snowbound" recht ordentlich und druckvoll. Schon die ersten Riffs lassen ihr späteres progressives Potenzial erahnen. Der Refrain ist melodisch und nahe an der Grenze zum Ohrwurm. Durchaus gelungen ist dabei das allmähliche Einbringen von immer mehr kleinen progressiven Elementen. Dies geschieht hier nicht wie bei vielen Bands mit einem harten Break oder einem Solo, sondern steigert sich von Riff zu Riff.
Futuristisch anmutend geht bei "Waking Hour" ziemlich rau zur Sache. Mit treibendem Double-Bass wird schon gleich am Anfang für gehörig Druck gesorgt. Auch hier ist der Refrain wieder melodisch angehaucht, jedoch deutlich dichter und mit Double-Bass wird der Gesangsstimme gehörig Paroli geboten. Genauso wie das Grundthema sind auch die Gitarren-Soli aggressiv und messerscharf ausgefallen.
Dem Titelsong "Andromeda unchained" hat man neben einer Vielzahl von progressiven Elementen auch mithilfe einiger Synthesizer-Parts epischen Charakter verpasst. Es handelt sich allerdings nicht um ein friedlich freundliches Tralala-Stück, sondern eher um einen dicken melancholischen Brocken, der durch stellenweise extrem tiefe Gitarren zusätzliche Schwermut mit auf den Weg bekommt.
Sogar bei Balladen wie "Take me home" gibt man sich nicht mit bewährten Standard-Mustern zufrieden. Sphärische Synthesizer-Klänge, Akustik-Gitarren und gefühlvoller Gesang bilden den durchaus üblichen Auftakt. Jedoch schon das Gitarren-Solo nach dem ersten Refrain sorgt mit Tempo- und Themenwechseln für jede Menge progressiven Zündstoff ohne dabei jedoch den zu Beginn eingeschlagenen Weg allzu weit zu verlassen.
Das längste (und auch offiziell letzte) Stück "The End of Millenium Road" schafft mehr als 10 Minuten auf dem Chronometer und hat es wahrlich in sich. Hier wird tatsächlich nochmal alles aufgeboten und zu einem genialen Mini-Opus verschmolzen. Klar, dass hierbei jede Menge zeit für geniale Breaks bleibt und so manche Gitarrensaite bei den unzähligen Soli an der Zerreißgrenze schwingt. Der fröhlich, freundliche Charakter bleibt bis auf wenige melancholische Drifts erhalten und wird nicht nur für die Refrains aufgespart.
Erfreulicherweise ist nach dem letzten offiziellen Song ein weiterer "Bonustrack" auf der CD, dessen Titel mir leider nicht bekannt ist. Er ist deutlich traditioneller ausgefallen, verzichtet im Hauptthema überwiegend auf progressives oder episches Beiwerk und erinnert etwas an die guten alten Stratovarius Zeiten. Neben dem Opener und "The End of Millenium Road" hat mich dieser Song am meisten überzeugt.

Fazit: Anubis Gate reiht sich nahtlos in die Reihe von Bands wie ihren Landsleuten von Wuthering Heights ein und zellebriert einerseits traditionellen Heavy Metal mit eindeutigen Wurzeln in den 80ern. Das Ganze wird dabei mit jeder Menge progressiven Elementen angereichert und dezent arrangierte Synthesizer-Parts verleihen den meisten Songs eine gewisse epische bzw. sphärische Note - nicht zu viel, sondern gerade recht um nicht als kitschig gewertet zu werden.
Leider fehlt ein wirklicher Ohrwurm, der die Komplexität auch länger konservieren könnte. Was bleibt ist ein interessantes jedoch kurzweilige Hörvergnügen, wobei damit nicht die Spieldauer gemeint ist, denn mit über 70 Minuten gibt es hier wirklich nichts zu meckern.

Tipp:
 
Keine Frage für Fans des anspruchsvolleren Heavy Metal, denn hier kann man sich jederzeit entspannt zurücklegen und sich im See der unzähligen Riff-Wellen treiben lassen.
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MUSICSTREETJOURNAL

Anubis Gate
Andromeda Unchained
Review by Eric Meli
Locomotive seems to be the home for many quality metal bands and Anubis Gate is no different. This is my first taste of the band and I must say that I am really impressed. They have all the right ingredients and they mix them into catchy, interesting songs. Jacob Hansen has a great set of pipes and he sings with the power and range of James LaBrie. Jesper Jensen is truly a find because he can riff with the best of them but he has the sense of melody that makes his solos memorable and catchy. He should be the inspiration for the next breed of guitar player. Morten Sorensen and Kim Olesen are as solid a rhythm section as it get giving the rest of the band a nice basis to lay their parts over. All the tracks on Andromeda Unchained are solid with quite a few standing above the pack. Now that I know what these guys are all about, I will have to search out their other 2 releases; Purification and A Perfect Forever.
Freak Show At Post Zeta...One Child Missing...
This is just a spacey keyboard intro that ushers in the real meat of the album.
Snowbound
The first thing that hits me about this is that it is very Dream Theater-ish. The vocal styles of Jacob Hansen really remind me of James LaBrie circa Images and Words. This is very much in the realm of prog-metal due to the many parts and technical playing. “Snowblind” is definitely one of the standout tracks on this CD and I love the fact that when you think it is over, the tune keeps going; almost possessing a life of its own.
Waking Hour
Anubis Gate switch gears here and go with more of a euro power metal cut. The chorus has that galloping fast drumming but the rest of the tune has more of a metal groove to it.
Andromeda Unchained
Many times the title track is usually the focal point of an album and the rest of the music/lyrics/imagery revolves around it. We get a pretty heavy tune here with some solid riffing from Jesper Jensen. Overall it is a simple song (compared to the others) but it is effective in setting a mood.
Banished From Sector Q
This intro adds some guitars to the spacey sound effects. It could have been part of “Beyond Redemption” because it flows right into it. If you didn’t have the song titles, you swear it was just part of the song.
Beyond Redemption
There are many parts to this prog-ish metal cut that have that Dream Theater vibe to it. A few euro power metal parts are thrown in to keep things interesting but I like this track because it slows down most of the time and gets a good groove going.
Resurrection Time
A nice fade in revealing some heavier riffing starts this cut. The song builds as it goes along and has more of that prog-metal hybrid that these guys are able to pull off easily.
Escape Pod
We get another spacey keyboard intro here. It is only 30 seconds, which makes me wonder why it just isn’t added to the following track.
This White Storm Through My Mind
This piece has a real epic feel to it. They still are able to throw a few progressive bits in there but overall, this track has an old school metal sound to it. It’s the second longest tune on the album but there are many parts that keep things moving along. This is another one of the highlights of the CD.
The Final Overture
The band continue with that old school metal sound here that even has a little bit of NWOBHM thrown in. No need to fear though, fans of newer euro power metal will be happy because the guys pepper this track with some of that sound also. Jensen puts in a solid performance with some cool riffing and a nice guitar solo.
Take Me Home
I wasn’t expecting this type of tune here but what a pleasant surprise. The guys mix some Triumph with Styx (Grand Illusion era) and add their own twist to this metal tune. Jesper puts in another great solo and he knows just how to do it. He plays for the song, not overdoing it with a “show-off” piece. Henrik Fevre does a great job on vocals. This may be his only lead vocal on the album but he really makes the most of it. This is kind of an odd track compared to the rest of the disc, but it is another winner on a really solid album.
Point of No Return
This track starts off mellow but then builds into an OK tune. Of all the songs on offer here, this is the weakest. There is nothing really wrong with it; it just doesn’t have that “x-factor” that the others do.
The End of Millenium Road
Even though it has a mellow keyboard start, the song builds into a Dream Theater style prog metal tune. There is something epic about the song and it is a great way to end the album. I know, there is another song but this is the albums proper closing.
The Stars of Canis Minor
The CD ends as it began, with a spacey keyboard outro. Even though the track listing puts it at over a minute, it really is only 40 seconds.

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RECKREPORT.BE

ANUBIS GATE
Purification

Three years ago, ex-Invocator bassist Jesper Jensen and drummer Morten S?rensen, who had both been playing in rap metal act Geronimo, came together in Aalborg (Denmark) to found Anubis Gate. They quickly invited vocalist Torben Askholm to join them. They immediately started work on brand new song material. When enough tunes had been written, the trio entered the studios of renowned producer Jacob Hansen, an ex-band mate of Jensen from the Invocator days by the way. Several guest appearances were recorded during the following months. In January of this year, work on “Purification” was finished and the album has recently been released on Locomotive Music.
Musically, Anubis Gate keep the happy mean between classic hard rock and power metal with progressive influences. Jensen has not forget his thrash past with Invocator either as many of the songs are based on heavy guitar riffing: “Downward Spiral”, “In The Comfort Of Darkness” with its powerful and outstanding intro and “Discrowned”. Vocalist Torben Askholm does a fine job and in times reminds me of Virtuocity’s Peter James Goodman, but fails to hold attention when pitch rises and his sharp voice might start to annoy.
I have no more bad things to say about “Purification” though and have even left a couple of good ones for last. The powerful production for instance – courtesy of the aforementioned Jacob Hansen - or the variety and originality of the album are things to be proud of. In other words: a fine debut from yet another promising and talented Intromental managed act! (SL)

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METALCHRONIQUES

8/10

ANUBIS GATE - Andromeda Unchained

SONNY1968

9/10
ANDROMEDA UNCHAINED
Wo Locomotive Music drauf steht, muss Dampf drin sein. ANUBIS GATE waren auf meiner musikalischen Reise ein Bahnhof, den ich noch nicht angesteuert hatte. Da werde ich wahrscheinlich nicht der Einzige sein. 2004 erschien in Deutschland das Debüt "Purification", welches genauso an den Ohren vorbeirauschte wie Album #2 "A Perfect Foreverv. Wundern würde es mich, sollte "Andromeda Unchained" genauso ungehört verhallen. Das, was einem hier in 70 Minuten geboten wird ist Power Metal mit einem Hang zum Proggigen vom Feinsten. Nach zarten Intro-Tönen werden die Gitarren ausgepackt und die Nackenmuskulatur angesprochen. Und das wird sich bis zum Ende auch nicht ändern. Melodischer Powergesang der in manchen Momenten an D. C. Cooper oder James LaBrie erinnert zaubert hier Ohrwurmmelodien hervor, dass es eine wahre Wonne ist (bestes Beispiel dafür "The Final Overture"). Krachende Gitarren liegen im Wettstreit mit schönen Keyboardpassagen ohne sich anzubiedern oder auf die Nerven zu gehen. Bei allem Gefrickel werden nicht die „ich-bin-schneller“-Attacken ausgepackt, sondern songdienlich eingebunden. Und auch wenn mal das Gaspedal nicht bis zum Boden durchgedrückt ist wie bei "Take Me Home", wird es nicht langweilig. Richtig spannend wird es, wenn man mit "The End Of Millenium Road" einen 10-Minüter aus der Tüte zaubert ohne Langeweile zu verbreiten. Das was die 4 Dänen mit ihrem Produzenten als Sänger aus dem Hut gezaubert haben ist für mich eine der Entdeckungen des Jahres. Bleibt nur zu hoffen, dass der verdiente Erfolg eintritt und der Bahnhof ANUBIS GATE noch lange bestehen bleibt.
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THOUGHTSOFMETAL

ANUBIS GATE – A Perfect Forever (Locomotive Records 2005)

Anubis Gate: Andromeda Unchained (Review)

Zugegeben: Das Debüt von ANUBIS GATE namens "Purification" von 2004 ist durch die Veröffentlichungsflut in meinem CD-Regal etwas untergegangen, der Nachfolger "A Perfect Forever" hat es verwerflicherweise gar noch immer nicht in meinen Besitz geschafft. Ein klares Versäumnis, wenn man erhabenen Metalsongs wie "I, Demon", "The Shadow" oder dem monumentalen "Discrowned" zur Auffrischung mal wieder die verdiente Aufmerksamkeit widmet. Und diese ist auch beim Drittwerk der Skandinavier verstärkt erforderlich, um die gehaltvollen Songstrukturen auf "Andromeda Unchained" gänzlich auszukosten.
Aber halt: Erstmal gilt es, auf eine einschneidende Veränderung im Gefüge der Band hinzuweisen. Sänger Torben Askholm, der großen Anteil an der Qualität der bisherigen Veröffentlichungen hatte, ist an einer langfristigen Halsinfektion erkrankt und steht der Band nicht mehr zur Verfügung; ein Rückschlag, den es für die Band, wie für den Fan erstmal zu verdauen gilt. Nach einer kurzen Übergangsphase mit Basser Henrik Fevre am Mikro (und hier noch bei der Ballade "Take Me Home"zu hören), hat Jacob Hansen, der auch weiterhin für den einwandfreien Klang der musikalischen Erzeugnisse zuständig ist - was ihm auch wieder hervorragend gelungen ist, der Sound bläst einen um - den Gesang übernommen. Der bekannte Vollzeit-Produzent hat ja in der Vergangenheit bei INVOCATOR bereits nachdrücklich bewiesen, wenn auch etwas weniger melodisch, dass er singen kann und auch hier macht er seine Sache mehr als nur gut. Dennoch kann er seinen Vorgänger nicht so ohne weiteres vergessen machen, da mit Askholm und dessen erhabener Stimme auch ein Stück Identität von ANUBIS GATE verloren gegangen ist. Da braucht es seine Zeit, bis man sich an den weicheren und irgendwie fröhlicher klingenden Gesang auf "Andromeda Unchained" gewöhnt hat. Aber es gelingt nach einer Weile und überraschenderweise erinnert mich dieser in den lang gezogenen, hohen Lagen (bzw. der Art zu singen) bei Songs wie dem Titeltrack, dem vertracktem "Resurrection Time" oder dem mit instrumental verträumten Mittelteil und vor dem Schlussspurt mit Background-Chorälen versehenden "Beyond Redemption" öfter mal an James LaBrie.
Dass sich auch das Gesamtbild der Dänen ein wenig gewandelt hat, dürfte allerdings weniger am Sängerwechsel liegen. So ist etwa von den Doom-Merkmalen des Debüts so gut wie nichts geblieben, dafür ist ihr Stil insgesamt moderner und flächendeckender geworden, gleichzeitig aber auch verspielter. Insgesamt orientiert sich das Quintett aber immer noch an anspruchsvollem Melodic und Power Metal in der Tradition von Bands wie QUEENSRYCHE, TAD MOROSE, den späteren FATES WARNING oder auch den leider mittlerweile wohl fast unbekannten WICKED MARAYA. Zu den ebenfalls gerade aktuellen Norwegern von CIRCUS MAXIMUS kann man ebenso Parallelen ausmachen, um auch auf die seichten und eingängigen Momente im variablen Tempo der Scheibe hinzuweisen. So etwa bei Refrain und Chorus wie beim frühen Ohrwurm "Snowbound", der gleichzeitig mit verschiedenen Soundeffekten, dem farbenfroh wie treibenden Schlagzeugspiel und den anspruchsvollen Gitarrenleads nie langweilig wird. Im Gegensatz dazu scheinen speedige Doublebass-Nummern wie "Waking Hour" oder "Beyond Redemption" zu stehen, bis sich auch dort zur abwechslungsreichen Gitarrenarbeit der glasklare Gesang gesellt und den harmonischen Teil mit einbringt.
Von der auf den Vorgängern thematisierten und zum Bandnamen passenden Ägyptologie ist die Band textlich mittlerweile abgerückt, stattdessen verbirgt sich im Einklang mit dem gelungenen Coverartwork (erinnert mich irgendwie an die letzte ZERO HOUR) diesmal offensichtlich ein futuristisches Konzept hinter dem thematisierten Sternbild. Näheres sollte sich durch das spätere Booklet ergeben. Passend hierzu sind nicht nur die Songs durch sphärische Übergänge miteinander verbunden, auch die teilweise poppig wirkenden Keyboards wie in "This White Storm Through My Mind" und dem einmal mehr durch die Drums wuchtigen "Point Of No Concern" verströmen bisweilen eine Atmosphäre, die der von Arjen Lucassens STAR ONE nicht unähnlich ist.
Ein leichtes Problem, das ich mit der Scheibe habe, will ich nicht unerwähnt lassen: Obwohl man beim gespannten Lauschen (vorzugsweise unter Kopfhörer) immer wieder neue Details entdeckt, wirkt mancher Part doch etwas in die Länge gezogen und da das Album mit über 70 Minuten Spielzeit äußerst opulent ausgefallen ist (was unbestreitbar lobenswert ist), fällt es nicht ganz leicht, es konzentriert an einem Stück zu hören. Nicht-Proggies, die hier grundsätzlich erstmal nicht falsch sind, könnten speziell die Instrumentalpassagen in den nicht wenigen monumentalen Tracks wie etwa dem zehnminütigen "The End Of Millennium Road" zu langatmig ausgefallen sein. Für diese gibt es auf dem abwechslungsreichen Rundling aber andererseits genügend reinrassige Powertracks wie etwa das bärenstarke "The Final Overture", so dass sich ANUBIS GATE eigentlich einer breiten Hörerschar erfreuen sollten - jene muss es dieses Mal bloß merken.
FAZIT: Ein tolles Album, das das bisher unscheinbare Dasein von ANUBIS GATE erneut ad absurdum führt. Den Reiz bzw. den Wunsch, die neuen Songs mal mit dem alten Sänger zu hören, kann ich trotz aller Begeisterung über "Andromeda Unchained" aber nicht ganz verhehlen...
Lars S. (Info)
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METALSTORM
8/10
Anubis Gate - Andromeda Unchained
2007



Anubis Gate comes from Denmark and even if it's the first time that I hear something about them, I can already tell you that it will not be the last one. With their new album "Andromeda Unchained", the combo releases an impressive album of Power Progressive Metal which will be, let's be honest, the real beginning of a promising career. Be sure that you'll not miss it!

The music of "Andromeda Unchained" is dark with a lot of different ambiances. All the songs on the album are really different and yes, this is not a linear album and that's a great thing for me. The music is a mix between Power Metal and Prog a la Andromeda (the Swedish combo), it's really efficient and even if it's clearly "prog" the songs are all really "intelligent" and never become some kind of musical demonstrations, "Andromeda Unchained" is easy of access without being weak and easy. But the album is also really varied, I mean that you will find mid-tempo songs, like fast ones or ballads like "Take Me Home" (the singer on this one is the bassist, and he is great!). It's a real pleasure to listen to this album and for sure it will be one new big surprises of the year 2007.

Without being a concept album, "Andromeda Unchained's" topics talk about human being condition and I have to say that the lyrics are really well-written. The production is perfect and I clearly think that the band should find a real success with this release. The musicians of Anubis Gate are great, their singer is perfect for their music and they all know how to write real Progressive songs.

"Andromeda Unchained" is a great surprise! This album is really complex without being hard to understand. All the ones who like good Progressive Metal but who don't like elitist music will love this album. "Andromeda Unchained" is full of hits and I think that Anubis Gate will be able now to conquer the European market and let's hope that they will confirm this positive review as soon as possible. Just classy…
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METALFAN.NL

Anubis Gate - A Perfect Forever

Twaalf jaar zijn en in een heavy metalband spelen, dat is toch wel extreem te noemen. Children Of Bodom (toen nog Inearthed) en Impaled waren al talented youngsters in het genre, maar de grondlegger van Anubis Gate was er helemaal absurd vroeg bij. Dat is inmiddels wel een jaar of twintig terug, en inmiddels kan aan worden genomen dat Jesper M. Jensen zichzelf bij onder andere de Deense thrashlegende Invocator heeft kunnen ontwikkelen. Eind jaren '90 ontmoeten verschillende oude vrienden uit de Deense scene elkaar weer, wat leidt tot de oprichting van de metalband Anubis Gate.

Om het gedrocht maar meteen bij de strot te grijpen; Anubis Gate speelt exact de soort muziek die je zou verwachten bij het horen van de bandnaam. Kundige heavy metal met de beste elementen uit de zware en mysterieuze bands Tad Morose en Morgana Lefay. Meer specifiek een Egyptisch aandoende sound zoals Iron Maiden die zich aanmat voor het majesteuze nummer "Powerslave". Anubis kneedt die verschillende brokken muzikale krachtpatserij tot een perfect sculptuur. Negen bijna volmaakte nummers, die in niets afkomstig lijken te zijn van een zogenoemde eenheidsworst. Complexe songstructuren met zowel krachtige Iced Earth-achtige riffs als licht moderne én neoklassieke elementen, zonder ook maar een ogenblik de draad kwijt te raken. De flirts met akoestische gitaren zijn meer dan charmant, keyboards zijn toegepast om een majesteus tintje te bewerkstelligen. En het werkt.
"Approaching Inner Circle" benadert heel dicht het gevoel dat de solo's van het Maiden-nummer "Powerslave" gaven. De drang om terug te spoelen om die solo's nóg eens te horen, keer op keer de rewind-knop indrukken om jezelf te verzekeren dat het kippenveleffect écht niet weggaat. En dat zit wel goed. Zanger Torben Askholm is een allemansvriendje. Hij lijkt te lenen van zowel Hansi Kursch (Blind Guardian) als Joachim Cans (Hammerfall) maar lijkt voornamelijk tussen die twee en de anonieme groep kloonzangers te zweven. Niet dat het iets uitmaakt, het klinkt namelijk best okay.
Dit alles speelt de band ogenschijnlijk zo moeiteloos klaar dat eenieder zich af gaat vragen waarop de genregenoten van deze zo getalenteerde Anubis Gate zo op aan het prutsen zijn. A-klasse heavy metal met een progressief tintje. Hier wordt een mens weer blij van.
Score: 87 / 100
Reviewer: Bob Toegevoegd: 7 september 2005
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METALFAN.NL

Anubis Gate - Andromeda Unchained

Het Deense Anubis Gate heeft met het middelmatige Purification (2004) en het sterke A Perfect Forever (2005) twee heavy/power metal albums met progressieve invloeden op zijn naam staan, in het straatje van Tad Morose en Crimson Glory. In de bekende producent Jacob Hansen beschikt de band inmiddels echter over een nieuwe zanger, nadat Torben Askholm wegens stemproblemen afhaakte. Dat heeft Anubis Gate geïnspireerd tot een lichte stijlverandering.

De Egyptische sfeer is zo goed als verdwenen, terwijl de band nu regelmatig koers zet richting progressieve metal in het kielzog van een Dream Theater of Pagan’s Mind. Hansen’s zang sluit daarbij aan. Zijn hoge stem zal niet iedereen liggen en mist de agressie van zijn voorganger, maar voldoet ruimschoots aan de standaard in het genre en heeft niet het zeurderige accent dat Askholm’s zang kenmerkte. Op de meeslepende ballad Take Me Home neemt overigens bassist Henrik Fevre de vocalen voor zijn rekening.
Na een kort, griezelig intro laat opener Snowbound horen waar Anubis Gate toe in staat is. Dit lied bevat mooie gitaarmelodieën, krachtige tempowisselingen, een pakkend refrein, zeer opvallende percussie, een avontuurlijke instrumentale sectie en een melancholiek outro. Het is echt een nummer dat bij de eerste kennismaking de aandacht al grijpt en bij de tiende luisterbeurt nog steeds nieuwe details prijsgeeft.
Andere uitschieters zijn het afwisselende Beyond Redemption en het pakkende The Final Overture, dat aan het einde van de cd als verborgen track in een ingekorte versie nogmaals voorbijkomt. Hoewel Andromeda Unchained een conceptalbum is, heeft ieder nummer zijn eigen karakter, zowel muzikaal als tekstueel. Elke song geeft namelijk een beeld van de nabije toekomst door de ogen van een andere inwoner.
Met dit album maakt Anubis Gate weer een flinke stap voorwaarts. Ofschoon het instrumentale vakmanschap hoog is, is het resultaat gelukkig geen puur technische krachtpatserij. Onderhuidse emoties krijgen alle ruimte om zich in de luisteraar te nestelen. Liefhebbers van progressieve metal zullen dan ook vele uren luisterplezier beleven aan dit schijfje.

Score: 89 / 100
Reviewer: Gilbert Toegevoegd: 24 juli 2007
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LORDSOFMETAL

Anubis Gate - Purification

Eddy: What I really like doing is sitting in my office-chair, leaning back and closing my eyes. On the background there has to be some great music that makes me dream away. What I just described is exactly what I am doing right now. The music that is playing is the first CD, ‘Purification’, of the Danish band Anubis Gate. The band sees their own music as an amalgamation of the classic 80’s heavy metal, a more epic 90’s ambience and a dark progressive sound, more of this time. And I agree completely with them! The music they present us with is a fine mid-tempo journey through a beautiful musical landscape. It is very difficult to place this band in a corner when comparing them with other bands. And that is one of the fine qualities of this band; it means that they are pretty unique. When you put a gun to my head and force me to make a comparison then I will have to say that the music is a mix between Threshold and Psychotic Waltz. In Torben Askholm the band found the perfect voice to make the music even darker and more complete than it already was. Torben is the former singer of Prophets Of Doom and the progressive metal outfit Northern Empire. If you are ready to undergo a new musical experience, I can only advise you to check out this album and enjoy this exciting adventure that is called ‘Purification’.
Score: 85/100 (details)
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METALRAGE.COM
Anubis Gate - Andromeda Unchained

84%

Anubis Gate is a Danish prog/power metal band that has been having ups and downs ever since they started. Receiving both positive and negative feedback on their two previous albums they kept on trying and working on their skills. They now want to show off the result of their perseverance with their third full length record: Andromeda Unchained.
 
The first positive comment I need to give is the album-length. It contains no less than one hour and five minutes, spread out over fourteen songs. One minor point of the previous albums seemed to be the vocals. I cannot compare since I have not heard the previous singer (except for some samples), but all I can say is that they definitely didn’t go wrong with choosing Jacob Hansen as new vocalist. The second song ‘Snowbound’ gives you a great first impression of his high reaching vocal lines.
 
Being tagged as a progressive band you’d expect some quality of the production and of course the music itself. This is probably the greatest aspect of Anubis Gate. About the sound of the album I cannot say much except that it is near perfection. Every instrument is clearly heard and all are well balanced in volume. What they do with their instruments is another thing. Don’t expect any mind blowing solos and such. They are definitely not Dream Theatre.
 
One “negative” point may be the lack of a red line through the songs, as the intro song might let you think. Also nice to know is that cover art of this album received a Grammy at the Danish Metal Awards!
 
So they might not be DT, but surely every progressive fan will enjoy this album and thus I can easily recommend it. Power metal fans don’t have to hesitate to buy this record either, for the progressive elements get varied with straight melodic parts very well! 

Short said: worth the buy!

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REVIEWBUSTERS.NET

Anubis Gate Album: Andromeda Unchained