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The Gathering

A Sound Relief DVD

Review by Gary Hill

Wow, I never heard of this outfit before, and that's a shame. Apparently these guys started out as a metal band, but from this DVD it's obvious that they are no longer. They have some metal in the mix, but it's less than many other progressive rock bands these days. More than anything else, this outfit plays a form of symphonic prog that has elements of Pink Floyd and female vocals that are in the vein of Annie Haslam or Lana Lane.

This is a two DVD set. The first DVD consists of a concert filmed in Amsterdam in 2005. The concert video is interspersed with pieces of animation. The second disc has a lot of extra features, including a whole series of the 3D animations that are included. That disc also has two interviews and a tour retrospective. One of the interviews is in Dutch (this band is from The Netherlands) but there are English sub-titles for those of us who are Dutch challenged.

Frankly, this video would be a great introduction to the band. It certainly has hooked me. The concert showcases a very intriguing progressive rock sound and a lot of incredible musicianship. At times you'll be drawn to the atmospheric textures, at other points to the killer rocking music. There are times when you'll swear you are listening to Hawkwind, too. The thing is, though, you'll probably not be bored at all. These guys are probably not well known to most progressive rock bands. Take the chance and pick this DVD up if you like modern prog, you won't regret it.

This review is available in book format (hardcover and paperback) in Music Street Journal: 2006 Volume 1 at lulu.com/strangesound.

 
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