everything from the end records is wierd and utterly amazing this is no exception the gathering is laden with pounding rythems and beautiful female vocals. this being my first the gathering experience i have no past albums of which to compare this to but in my opinion the gathering is one of the better female fronted bands. the shortest day is the standout song for me on this album. just by listening to it once i knew all of the words without even looking in the booklet that’s how catchy they are. although not technical by any means they are still worth your money and time.do not pass this one up!