H Is for Hellgate

Out There Monthly reviewed their self-titled debut and wrote, "Jamie Henkensiefken’s undeniably loveable and soulful vocals, much like Jamie herself, are the bread and butter of H."[12] Another review of this album came from Three Imaginary Girls, which gave the album a 5.6 out of 10 and wrote "H is for Hellgate almost appears to be two separate bands. The first is a rock band that uses lots of different timing changes and is driven by guitars, primarily. This band reminds me of Silversun Pickups or Metric. The second H is for Hellgate is a vocal-based pop band in the vein of Death Cab for Cutie."[13] Megan Seling of the Stranger was less favorable in her assessment of the album, describing it as "less-than-memorable".[14]

Nada Mucho ranked Come for the Peaks, Stay for the Valleys as the 6th best Seattle album of 2008.[15] In addition, Three Imaginary Girls ranked the album as the 23rd best Northwest release of 2008.[16] When Robert Christgau reviewed this album, he wrote, "Woman tells her bitter truths, which her guitar elaborates, or is it challenges?"[17] Another positive review of their second album came from the Missoula Independent, who wrote that "each song is beautifully crafted" and compared Henkensiefken favorably to Liz Phair.[18] Seattle Magazine wrote that their second album "...showcases the band’s—and in particular, lead singer Jamie Henkensiefken’s—ability to move seamlessly between punk rants (think Sleater-Kinney), alt-folk ballads (à la Laura Veirs) and the tricky time signatures of prog rock (like The Dismemberment Plan). The surprising mix will keep your ears on their toes."[19] Megan Seling reviewed the album favorably in the Stranger, writing that "Hellgate's pounding drumming and wiry guitar work nod to turbulent '90s post-rock, but some songs ("Blood," for instance) come with a somber Pacific Northwest vibe. "Copernicus and Me" is dark and drilling; "Dusk at Devil's Tower" is one part Jawbox, one part Bikini Kill."[14]