Album Review: Revenge At Midnight by Gatekrashör
Released in 2016, Revenge At Midnight by Canadian speed metal outfit Gatekrashör is a relentless assault on the senses that's hard to forget. Self-released under the "Not On Label" banner, this album doesn’t play it safe—it grabs you by the throat and demands attention. For fans of raw, unfiltered rock with blistering tempos and razor-sharp riffs, this record delivers in spades.
The opening track, "Axecution Guaranteed," sets the tone immediately. It’s fast, furious, and feels like being chased through a dark alley by something growling and angry. The guitar work here is absolutely ferocious, weaving intricate solos into a mosh-worthy chaos. What makes this song stick? Maybe it’s the way the drums pound relentlessly, or how the vocals snarl with just enough grit to make your ears perk up. Whatever it is, it’s got replay value for sure. You’ll catch yourself humming its hooks even when you’re not trying to.
Then there’s "Infernal Overture/Revenge At Midnight," which starts off slow—well, as slow as speed metal can get—and builds into an inferno of sound. This one’s memorable because it feels cinematic, almost like a heavy-metal movie score crashing into your headphones. Around the halfway mark, things explode into what can only be described as pure sonic mayhem. If you’re looking for subtlety, look elsewhere; this track is all about bombastic energy and larger-than-life vibes. And honestly? That’s kind of refreshing.
Gatekrashör hails from Canada, but their music transcends borders. Their style leans heavily into classic speed metal influences while carving out its own identity. Tracks like "Nitro Ground Shaker" (which lives up to its explosive title) showcase tight musicianship and a knack for crafting songs that feel both chaotic and controlled.
What strikes me most about Revenge At Midnight isn’t just its technical prowess—it’s the passion behind it. These guys clearly love what they do, and that enthusiasm bleeds through every note. Sure, some transitions could’ve been smoother, and maybe the production quality leans toward gritty rather than polished, but that rough edge works in their favor. It gives the album character, making it feel more human somehow.
As for reflections... Honestly, listening to this album made me realize something kinda weird: speed metal might just be the perfect soundtrack for life’s little frustrations. Stuck in traffic? Blast Axecution Guaranteed. Can’t find your keys? Cue Infernal Overture. There’s something oddly therapeutic about letting loose with music this intense. Who knew revenge at midnight could feel so cathartic?
