Album Review: The Gathering, Home

“Distance makes the heart grow fonder” and so does sheer anticipation! It’s been three years since The Gathering released their last studio album, Souvenirs. Meanwhile, they’ve released an outstanding semi-acoustic live-album (Sleepy Buildings) and a DVD recording from the same gigs (A Sound Relief), and a collection of B-sides and rare tracks (Accessories). But now there’s Home, their eight studio album (ninth if you count the EP Black Light District).

Though they have lost a lot of fans after their transgression from Symphonic and Gothic Metal to what they call Triprock, the fan base has only grown through the years. Nowadays the Gathering is known for their mixture of experimental progressive rock with sampling effects and a faint echo of their metal days. With Home The Gathering takes a step back and focuses more on a progressive rock sound instead of the pure experimental compositions like in Souvenirs. Whether this is a good decision is a matter of personal taste. In my opinion Home does not live up to my expectation. Does this mean it’s a bad album? Not at all! Home is a terrific album, it’s just more in line with their older work. Home relies heavily on the rhythm section, softly distorted guitars and, as always, on the seraphic voice of the lead singer, Anneke van Giersbergen. More (trip)rock and less Pink Floyd-esque experimentation.

Home is must-have for any The Gathering fan and can be a great addition to any musical collection. However, do not expect a new milestone in their discography. My conclusion: as long as you do not let your expectations get the best of you, you will not be disappointed.

Artist: The Gathering
Album: Home
Duration: 13 tracks (1:00:21)
Label: Psychonaut Records
Released: April 15, 2006

Listen to Shortest Day (mp3 with annoying announcements through it)