“Magik Metal” isn’t a genre or term I’m familiar with but apparently this is what The Gates specialises in. Comprised of Galigula on vocals and King Baal who does all the instrumentation, they deliver occult infused tunes that are heavy on the pop and drama.

Swathed in an 80’s synth pop aura “The Cosmic Crypt” comes to life with the drama of Ghost. Very hooky and with drums that have a good roll it nonetheless feels a little dated. The vocals move from death metal growls to almost operatic baritone and sound a bit like Rammstein’s Till Lindemann. “Funguss” is a proto, glam pop punk rocker but feels at odds with the album so far and the whispered, growled vocals really don’t compliment the track and nor does the baritone when it comes in.

“The Reborn” and “Dark Lord” are far more cohesive. The latter comes in with a dirty, raw opening riff and a bluesy, almost Zeppelin vibe. I’m not sure the operatic, baritone vocals are always required. Sticking with the growls on this one would give it that dark depth it deserves rather than trying to do too much. The mix of vocals comes into full positive effect on closing track “The Ghost Of The Night. Rich, church organ sound hums in the background while the mix of vocal styles adds the sense of light and shade and makes a stronger track for it.

“…of Pandemonium” will likely polarise listeners. For fans of synth soaked, gothic tones with faux occult overtones, go for it. This is by no means a weighty album and has a lean running time of 33 minutes. There’s plenty of hooks but sometimes feels like there’s a bit too much thrown into the mix, especially vocally. The talent is there and it’ll be interesting where this duo heads.

(5/10 Johnny Zed)

https://thegates-northernsilence.bandcamp.com/album/of-pandemonium