28 October 2022 - 0 Comments

With the streaming release of the second track Ronin from their upcoming, debut EP, Deadhouse Gates are coming out swinging with their thunderously brutal debut. A mix of thrash, death and groove with even some echoes of black metal, scorching its way from vocalist, Zak’s formidable pipes.

Taking their name from the epic Steven Erikson novel and rising in 2021 from the ashes of New Zealand metal stalwarts Subtract. Ex-members Mark Rees (drums) and Martin Needle (guitar) have joined forces with Zak Whiting (bass/vocals) to form this hard hitting trio.

Mark says of the formation, “We’d made decent start on some strong new material when it became apparent that Subtract had run it’s course. It was an easy decision to move forward and start fresh with a new project.”

“After a long search for right people to fill the planned vocals and bass slots, Zak comes along and smashes both roles! At that point it was a no-brainer to move forward as a three piece.”

Martin on recording process, “It was important to us to have a real DIY attitude to tracking the whole thing. No pro studios, no expensive engineers and equipment. Mark’s drums were tracked at a friends rehearsal space - thanks Jamie - and all the guitars and vocals were recorded in the basement of my house.”

“We recorded long takes with very little editiing in the mixing process, and of course we then mixed and produced everything oursleves. Even down to artwork. We tried to keep it as punk as possible."

The band are currently in heavy rehearsal and hope to start playing shows around New Zealand in the new year. With plans to take things further afield later in 2023.

The self titled EP Deadhouse Gates is released independently on the band’s own label - The Deadhouse Records - across all streaming platforms from October 31st 2022. With a limited vinyl release slated for December 2022.

Volcanic (single) on YouTube

Ronin (single) on YouTube

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