Brooklyn powerpunk gaze-rockers Heaven’s Gate released their 7 song EP “High Riser” in November 2012, proving that packaging musical ideas in brief bursts of energy is often very effective, in particular when there’s a talented and commanding vocalist like Jess Paps behind the melodic wheel. With most songs clocking in under two minutes, the record has still plenty of hooks (and tension) to wrap your ears around.
“Pray” thrashes with abandon, like early Siouxsie & The Banshees (think “Carcass” from their eponymous debut album “The Scream”). “Pogo” taps the punk vibe mapped out by The Ramones and New York Dolls. “Salome” moves into pitch-bended guitar dreams, with a heart-tugging guitar progression paired against emotionally charged vocals. The image one might get from a song titled “Jesus Hair” is that of the quintessential rock dude with long locks parted in the middle. “All you want to give me, all that you can give – ‘cause you know that I’ll take it,” implies approval of type by our intrepid female vocalist. “Weakness Worm” would slot nicely between a Yeah Yeah Yeah’s and Hunters track, while “Skin Weed” merges the Peter Gunn detective beat with Sonic Youth guitar recklessness. Final track “Sea Swing” stomps and rumbles like a Patti Smith/Kevin Shields collaboration. The band will be performing at Knitting Factory on May 26. – Dave Cromwell