How to Measure a Planet?

by Chris True

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.