Blackgates — the East San Francisco Bay Area metal outfit featuring drummer Paul Bostaph (ex-Testament, Exodus, Slayer, Forbidden) and guitarist Jeremy Von Epp (The Venting Machine) — has announced the addition of second guitarist Melissa Evila (pictured below) to the group's ranks.

Comments Bostaph: "Melissa came out to our first show and afterwards suggested that we get a second guitar player. Eventually, we listened to her home demos and we quickly realized that she and Jeremy write very alike. Her material is heavier than hell and she has an amazing amount of energy. She's a true metalhead and a kick-ass guitar player!"

Adds Jeremy Von Epp: "Melissa is a fantastic metal guitar player and songwriter. Her contribution to writing and even her producing skills will prove to be a great asset to the band. Watch out, this dudette can shred!! Stay tuned for some new music with this new collaboration very soon."

Former Anthrax singer Dan Nelson recently left Blackgates to concentrate full time on being a father to his newborn son along with focusing on his own musical endeavors.

Blackgates is actively seeking a new permanent lead vocalist. The band states: "We're looking for a full-on metalhead who can sing with some serious melodic power and edge, with a bit of gravel on the top."

Vocalist submissions in the form of demos, links and videos can be sent to [email protected], subject: "Vox Search."

Blackgates made its live debut on May 5, 2012 at Rooster's Roadhouse in Alameda, California as part of the Cinco De Mayo Metal Throwdown with guests Mudface, Falling To Pieces and Another Void.

Blackgates last year parted ways with bassist Uriah Duffy (ex-Whitesnake) and replaced him with Luis Barillas (The Venting Machine).

Blackgates's first demo was recorded in the San Francisco Bay Area with producer Tim Narducci (Systematic, Spiralarms). You can check out three of the tracks in the ReverbNation widget below.