In the epic metal genre, Morgul Blade, Writhen Hilt and especially Savage Oath have already set the bar very high in the first third of the year. Every release must inevitably be measured against these very strong to outstanding works. Can the Portuguese Dolmen Gate keep up with the aforementioned trio?

To make a long story short: I’m sure that every Epic Metal Blog reader can order Gateways of Eternity without hesitation. Dolmen Gate present a classic, varied mixture on their debut album, which is at times energetic and fast-paced, but also epic and doomy. Sublime guitar melodies invite you to dream just as much as Ana’s really good vocal performance, whose delivery is largely responsible for the fact that the atmosphere repeatedly reminds you of Smoulder.

However, I would like to emphasise that Ana sings in a highly song-oriented manner and that the vocals are by no means in the foreground. The whole band does an excellent job, the rhythm section sets the tone as well as the aforementioned colleagues on the six-string. It is also pleasing that all the instruments are clearly audible and that you can consciously concentrate on a different musician on each playthrough. Gateways of Eternity is teamwork in the best sense of the word.

The songs are all of a high quality, in my opinion no composition stands out. This is positive, but it can also be said that there is no obvious hit that will immediately make it into several playlists. Gateways of Eternity is music for album listeners who take 40 minutes to immerse themselves. For me, this works brilliantly. Only the final – very short – instrumental is somewhat uninspired in my opinion, but perhaps this is simply a bow to Quorthon.

In short: Dolmen Gate basically do everything right and offer the epic metal world an album that should secure a spot in many top 10 lists at the end of the year. You can tell in every second that experienced musicians like ex-Ravensire members Nuno (bass) and Alex (drums) are at work, who know exactly what they are doing. The Portuguese are an enrichment for the scene – I also predict that Gateways of Eternity is a grower that needs to be given a bit of time.

Dolmen Gate on Bandcamp: Click here.