“AROUND THIS EDGE TOGETHER” by The7thGatekeeper

The7thGatekeeper’s Around This Edge Together is an immersive exploration of intensity, introspection, and creative autonomy. Across nine tracks, the South Wales artist demonstrates a meticulous balance between raw energy and careful craftsmanship, producing a record that feels simultaneously immediate and deliberate. Built entirely in his home studio—affectionately called the “chaos cupboard”—the album reflects both the intimacy of a solo project and the ambition of an evolving musician. The album opens with “(Fear) Wet State,” a track that introduces listeners to the record’s tension-driven atmosphere. Its layered guitar work, assertive rhythms, and unpolished vigor establish a sense of urgency, highlighting the artist’s willingness to confront personal and external challenges directly. The song’s structure balances aggression with reflection, signaling the thematic focus of the album: grappling with inner conflict while navigating broader life pressures.

Musically, Around This Edge Together resists strict genre boundaries. Elements of rock and metal intertwine with quieter, more contemplative passages, producing a dynamic range that underscores the artist’s versatility. Influences from both experimental bands and acoustic-focused songwriters are present, but The7thGatekeeper’s voice remains distinct throughout. Each track functions as part of a larger narrative, blending energy, restraint, and deliberate pacing to maintain cohesion without sacrificing individuality. The closing track, “Inamorata,” offers a notable contrast to the album’s opening intensity. Its warm, open arrangement and sincere vocal delivery provide a reflective resolution, highlighting the artist’s capacity for nuance and emotional depth. The track reinforces the album’s arc, moving from tension and urgency to calm and clarity, and leaving listeners with a sense of completion.

Production is both careful and expressive. The largely DIY approach emphasizes immediacy and intimacy, while the final mix and mastering provide clarity and depth without compromising the home-studio aesthetic. Every instrument and vocal element is thoughtfully placed, contributing to the overall narrative and emotional impact. Around This Edge Together solidifies The7thGatekeeper’s position as an artist committed to honesty, experimentation, and personal expression. From the opening drive of “(Fear) Wet State” to the reflective closure of “Inamorata,” the album showcases a creator willing to explore his craft fully, offering listeners a compelling and authentic musical experience.