These guys are from Italy and play melodic power/prog metal. Far from Rhapsody
or Labyrinth, Eternal Gate doesn't
fell in the Italian Power Metal Cliché. In fact, their music remind me
a lot Sky Lark.
The production of Sands Of Time could have been much better. Once
again the sound is "locked in". Like we use to say, these young bands
should invest more money in their demo ... or use an external producer, an "external
eye". In this case, Eternal Gate decide to produce themselves.
I honestly think it was a wrong choice, but of course this isn't my money ...
nor my career :)
The vocalist has a "pronounced" Italian accent, especially when he
tries the high-pitched notes. I have a feeling he should stop imitate or reproduce
... and try to be more "himself". Yes the vocals must be improved
if Eternal Gate wants to gather more attention in the future.
Again the mixing could have been better for Massimo Gallegari (vocals, lead
guitar) who seems to fight hard to take off ... his voice. The "fighting"
harmonies between the keyboards and the guitar are well done, even though they
remind me other famous band.
There are five songs in this Sands Of Time, all of them being pretty
in the same "line". That been said, the music is quite interesting,
melodic and catchy. The song-writing isn't bad ... just fully inspired by Iron
Maiden's melodies when galloping guitar riffs take place (More
Than This, Shadows Of My Life). Eternal Gate doesn't bring
something new but on the other hand, these Italians look very young on the booklet
and I am sure they just need time to evolve.
It's long way to the top ...