Gatecreeper: Blending Old-School Death Metal with Modern Aggression
Gatecreeper is a metal band that has taken the extreme music scene by storm with their unique blend of old-school death metal and modern aggression. Formed in 2013 in Phoenix, Arizona, Gatecreeper quickly gained a reputation for their crushing riffs, punishing grooves, and relentless energy. The band’s sound pays homage to classic death metal acts like Obituary and Entombed while injecting a fresh sense of urgency and intensity.
The band’s lineup consists of vocalist Chase H. Mason, guitarists Eric Wagner and Jack Maniacky, bassist Sean Mears, and drummer Matt Arrebollo. From the beginning, Gatecreeper set out to create music that was heavy, dark, and unapologetically brutal. Drawing inspiration from the desolate landscapes of the American Southwest, the band’s lyrics often explore themes of death, decay, and existential dread.
Gatecreeper’s debut EP, “Gatecreeper,” was released in 2014 and immediately caught the attention of metal fans and critics alike. The EP’s raw, unrelenting sound showcased the band’s talent for crafting punishing riffs and bone-crushing rhythms. Tracks like “Force Fed” and “Stench of Decay” demonstrated Gatecreeper’s ability to evoke the brutality and atmosphere of classic death metal while adding their own modern twist.
In 2016, Gatecreeper released their highly anticipated debut full-length album, “Sonoran Depravation.” The album was met with widespread critical acclaim and solidified the band’s reputation as one of the most exciting new acts in the metal scene. “Sonoran Depravation” featured a mix of blistering speed, crushing heaviness, and haunting melodies, creating a sonic landscape that was both punishing and immersive.
One of the standout tracks from “Sonoran Depravation” is “Desperation,” a relentless onslaught of pummeling riffs and guttural vocals that perfectly encapsulates Gatecreeper’s signature sound. The album’s production, courtesy of Ryan Bram at Homewrecker Studios, was raw and unpolished, giving the music a gritty and visceral feel that set it apart from other contemporary metal releases.
In the years following the release of “Sonoran Depravation,” Gatecreeper continued to tour relentlessly, building a dedicated fan base and earning a reputation as a must-see live act. Their intense and energetic performances, combined with their unwavering commitment to their craft, have helped them carve out a unique niche in the metal scene.
Gatecreeper’s sophomore album, “Deserted,” was released in 2019 and further solidified the band’s status as one of the leading voices in modern death metal. Songs like “Boiled Over” and “Everlasting” showcased the band’s growth and evolution while staying true to their roots. “Deserted” received critical acclaim and further expanded Gatecreeper’s fan base, earning them a spot on numerous year-end lists and festival lineups.
As Gatecreeper continues to push the boundaries of extreme music and deliver uncompromisingly heavy and intense music, it is clear that they are a band to watch in the metal scene. With their potent blend of old-school death metal aesthetics and modern aggression, Gatecreeper is poised to leave a lasting mark on the genre and inspire a new generation of metalheads to embrace the darkness.