THE WEST POLE

The Gathering came back after 3 years of a break, not only with a new vocalist onboard but with the stylistic change. The band have never been that close to generic alternative rock on one hand and moody ambient music on the other one. Saying radio-friendly in the Gathering world would be moderately non-conventional for many other bands but it is true that the band does not experiment to the extent they did before though there are neat instrumental moments such as cresciendo, melotron supported "Capital of nowhere". "You promised me a symphony" is a proof that the band hasn't forgotten how to write poignant ballads and the vocalist has the right vocal colour. "Pale traces" makes one think that The old female singer was still onboard since the new one handles her duties perfectly here. For me, it's the weakest Gathering album as since their debut one until it came out due to the lack of very good material and playing it safer. Still far from terrible by all means.