"[11] 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.
[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).
"[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.