The Gathering

With its opening track, Home establishes the rock-laden atmosphere pervading the Gathering’s latest musical fascination. While not a drastic upheaval, the record makes more room for harsh and thick guitar riffs than some of its recent predecessors, approaching the sound from an art (even post-) rock perspective rather than the trippy vibe the Gathering have been known to explore. Inevitably though, the vocal aerobatics of front-woman Anneke van Giersberge take centre stage, adding an intimacy to even the most revved up moments. And while such moments are many, Home is also wrapped up in delicate threads of understated emotion. Despite heavier doses of rock and an attitude almost sassy at times, the album is more laidback than brash, equally likely to sooth or brood. Home’s many-layered splendor — intensified by melodic flourishes and sublime effects — makes it difficult to take in all at once, but in time the patterns unfold easily to the willing ear.