Album Review: Gates to the Morning – Walk Between Worlds (Self Released)

Walk Between Worlds is the first in a trilogy of albums, and the eagerly awaited next chapter from the New Jersey based progressive trio, Gates to The Morning. The release follows their debut album Return to Earth unleashed back in July 2019 and contains material that spans several different releases.

This record features acoustic/unplugged re-imaginations of tracks from Return to Earth as well as re-imaginations of songs that will be featured on future albums that are yet to be released. Finally, there are also tracks that are unique to this album alone. It will be released on July 22nd, 2022.

There are five tracks taken from the lavish and grand concept album that was Return to Earth. Five tracks reworked and re-imagined tracks. King Obscure, Chapel Perilous, Chasing Shadows, Terra Incognita and the title track. Let’s talk about those ones first, especially as one of those (King Obscure) opens the album.

Each is an unplugged re-working with post-like atmosphere and a strong emotive detail. Each offers up something thoughtful, emotive, and fulfilling. Even more so if you’re familiar with the original versions. Each is equally memorable and how they are positioned on the album means they don’t overshadow some of the other unique ideas here. Although, if we were pressed to choose one that we liked more than any other, it would probably be the folkish and airy Chapel Perilous or the heartfelt melody that makes Return to Earth so damn pretty to the ears.

Elsewhere on the album there is the likes of Piscean Daydream, where guitar melody and ethereal effects create something nice but disconcerting. Moon in the Mid-Day Sky and Paradigms Fall, where comforting vocals and clean guitars makes for a relaxing but more animated listen. Sacrament, where the atmosphere creates a wealth of emotions and leaves the soul buoyed.

Then it’s just Fortress (Piscean Reprise), which is one of the more unusual structures on the album. Almost playful at times but still oozing all the elements that make this album a very unique listen.

Gates to The Morning – Walk Between Worlds Full Track Listing:

1. King Obscure
2. Piscean Daydream
3. Moon in the Mid-Day Sky
4. Paradigms Fall
5. Sacrament
6. Chapel Perilous
7. Chasing Shadows
8. Terra Incognita
9. Return to Earth
10. Fortress (Piscean Reprise)

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