Dealing with If_Then_Else a couple of years later I understand the stir that was caused around the Dutch supergroup at that time. This album used to polarize a lot. Many slated this record; some even predicted the downfall of the band. If_Then_Else is a roller coaster of feelings when it comes to the musical direction. After having changed the style radically on How To Measure A Planet, it seems that THE GATHERING now recollect on their roots again, try to build up bridges or give at least a little bit of help for familiarization with the new chapter of the band’s evolvement. Maybe they just stepped back for fear of their own courage displayed on How To Measure A Planet…
However, it seems like the band doesn’t feel well with what they have done here. If_Then_Else is far away to be a bad album; it still scores above average, but it is not that kind of shining masterpiece as the last 3 records used to be. And it reveals a certain inner conflict, sounds too anxious and too constructed. Yes, THE GATHERING want to strike a new path, but they also want to spark the old magic again and they don’t want to put all their fans off as future is uncertain.
THE GATHERING again try new elements, sounds and effects, this time focusing on (real) classic instruments. There are various wind instruments to find, which sound cheesy sometimes, and strings that again add a wonderful touch. Besides many guitar effects there is also a Hammond organ in Colorado Incident, which then is just too much. Singing of Anneke van Giersbergen is as sublime as always, but this time I find there is too much of ethereal whispering. THE GATHERING sound best when they rock out, what not necessarily means to play Metal.