Heavens Gate (band)
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1982 |
| Headquarters | Wolfsburg , Germany |
| Products | Power metal music |
Heavens Gate was a German power metal ensemble originating from Wolfsburg, esteemed as one of the forerunners of German power metal alongside bands such as Helloween, Gamma Ray, Grave Digger, Running Wild, and Rage. Their musical approach was significantly influenced by Helloween and Judas Priest.
The group initially formed under the name Steeltower in 1982 and issued the album Night of the Dog in 1984. Before their contract with No Remorse Records, they performed as Carrion, with several compositions later adapted for their debut album In Control. In 1987, they rebranded as Heavens Gate, releasing their first record under this title in 1989.
Guided by Frank Bornemann of Eloy, Heavens Gate rapidly established a presence within the German metal community and cultivated a notable fanbase in Japan. A highlight of their career includes recording a metal rendition of "Always Look on the Bright Side of Life" from The Life of Brian featured on their Hell for Sale! album.
The band came together once more for a live show at the Rock Hard Festival held in Athens, Greece on 13 September 2025.
Final lineup
- Thomas Rettke – lead vocals (1982–1999)
- Sascha Paeth – guitar (1987–1999)
- Bonny Bilski – guitar (1986–1999)
- Robert Hunecke-Rizzo – bass guitar (1996–1999)
- Thorsten Müller – drums (1982–1999)
Previous members
- Bernd Kaufholz – guitar (1982–1986)
- Ingo Millek – guitar (1982–1987)
- Manni Jordan – bass guitar (1987–1995; deceased 2023)
Studio albums
- Night of the Dog – 1984 (released as Steeltower)
- In Control – 1989
- Livin' in Hysteria – 1991
- Hell for Sale! – 1992
- Planet E. – 1996
- Menergy – 1999
Live albums
- Live for Sale! – 1993
EPs
- Open the Gate and Watch! – 1990
- More Hysteria – 1992
- In the Mood – 1997
Compilations
- Boxed – 1999
- Best for Sale! – 2015