At The Gates, along with contemporaries In Flames, are considered to be the originators of the Gothenburg (Sweden) sound, a style that would define the genre of melodic death metal (or melodeath, as it is often known).

In Flames would go on to become one of the biggest metal bands in the world while slowly evolving into a pop metal machine. Despite releasing several critically acclaimed albums, At The Gates would fail to find widespread commercial success and disbanded in 1996. Decibel magazine called the band’s final album, Slaughter of the Soul, “the most influential death metal record of the decade.”

At The Gates reformed in 2007 and has been touring sporadically ever since. Much to the delight of fans, the band is set to release their first album in 19 years on October 27, 2014. The album is called At War With Reality and, after much hype, we’re finally getting to hear the title track of the record.

Listen to the song “At War With Reality” here below.

I have to say that after In Flames released what is, hands down, the worst pseudo-metal record of the year last week, I was disheartened to say the least. Alas, here comes At The Gates to restore my faith in the Gothenburg sound. This track is an in your face slice of over the top melodic death metal that does not disappoint! It’s as if At The Gates never missed a beat. I’m now counting the days until the full record drops on October 27th. If this track is indicative of the record’s overall sound, At The Gates may just be the comeback story of the year!

Audio