EP Review: Gatekeeper – Grey Maiden (Cruz Del Sur Music)

Hot off the heels of their debut, Canada’s Gatekeeper strike while the iron is hot with the Grey Maiden EP, featuring a scorching new cut, re-recording of an old favourite, acoustic song and cover of an obscure NWOBHM track.

The follow-up to their successful East of Sun full-length debut, a review of which you can read here, Grey Maiden includes the brand-new title track and acoustic “Moss,” a re-recording of “Tale of Twins” from their first demo and a cover of “Richard III” by obscure NWOBHM outfit Tredegar.

Gatekeeper — who consist of vocalist Jean-Pierre, guitarist/founding member Geoff Blackwell, lead guitarist Kenny Kroecher, bassist David Messier and drummer Tommy Tro — originally had the idea to record an EP after being asked by Skol Records to contribute to their NOWBHM compilation, Grandbreton Invasion. Figuring they were already going to be ensconced in the studio recording “Richard III,” Gatekeeper decided to waste no time in pulling the Grey Maiden EP together, providing their fans with an early 2019 treat.

Grey Maiden will be released on February 22nd 2019 via Cruz Del Sur Music.

It’s the brand new track that kicks the EP off showcasing the bands harmonious and melodic sound to perfection. The twin guitar attack and distinctive vocals really shining brightly making for a truly memorable listen.

Tale of Twins comes next, a re-recording of an early demo track and has some serious punch to it. A thumping and groovy track that delivers excitement and shows that Gatekeeper knew how to write catchy and memorable tracks from the start.

The latter half of the EP brings us the ethereal and unnatural sounding acoustic track, Moss. A sweet effort that has a real power metal vibe to it. The vocals and melody are so impressive here. The highest praise I can give it is it reminded me of Blind Guardian.

Finally a cover of Tredegar’s Richard III (very obscure band – I’ve never heard of them) comes next and if Gatekeeper’s cover is anything to go by it’s time I did find out more about this band.

A lovely little EP to tide fans over while they await a brand new full length album.

Gatekeeper – Grey Maiden Full Track Listing:

1. Grey Maiden
2. Tale of Twins (Re-recording)
3. Moss (Acoustic)
4. Richard III (Tredegar Cover)

The EP can be ordered over on Bandcamp and more information got via Facebook and Instagram.