If
Mandylion and
Nighttime Birds were the warm-up, then
How to Measure a Planet? is the real deal.
The Gathering have always had a talent for progressive-sounding metal, but with this release they take the style to a whole new level.
Anneke Van Giersbergen's vocals are the stuff of dreams, and the band's sound is stepped up more than just a few notches. Centered on the concept of travel and movement, all the tracks on this two-disc set actually make you feel like you are on a journey with the band. From the gentle "Rescue Me" to
Sabbath-esque rockers like "Liberty Bell," the band is able to create an ethereal atmosphere without sacrificing any of its power. This album takes metal to a beautiful new place. ~ Chris True